New doctoral degree in physical therapy offered

The founding faculty members of the Department of Physical Therapy’s first doctoral in physical therapy degree program are pictured with their support staff. Front Row (L-R): Michelle Barnes, Jacqueline Lopez, Dr. Giovanni De Domenico, Dr. Yolanda Rangel, Professor Ann Newstead, Professor Patricia Rodriguez, Dr. Martha Acosta. Back Row (L-R): Dr. Patricia Brewer, Dr. Julie Barnett, Dr. Michael Geelhoed, Dr. Gregory Ernst, Dr. Catherine Ortega, Annette Zavala.

This past fall, 40 students were recruited to begin the School of Health Professions’ first doctoral degree: a doctorate in physical therapy. Converting the current master’s degree program to a three-year doctoral program brings the university in line with a national trend to offer a doctoral degree in this growing field. The move is based on the American Physical Therapy Association’s (APTA) recommendation that a doctoral degree be the entry-level professional degree for physical therapists. APTA is the national professional organization for physical therapists and provides accreditation to those wishing to enter the field.