The University of South Carolina’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program prepares top-tier physical therapists through an individualized, high-quality, and high-value clinical program rooted in exceptional, evidence-based client care.
Our dynamic program prepares you to diagnose and treat individuals of all ages that have health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move. As a physical therapist, you will diagnose and enhance physical and functional abilities; restore and promote optimal physical function; and prevent the onset and progression of limitations that may result from diseases, disorders, conditions or injuries.
Physical therapists provide care for people in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, schools, sports and fitness facilities, work settings and nursing homes.
Students who complete the DPT program at the University of South Carolina have the
option of applying, and if accepted, enroll in an accelerated Exercise Science Ph.D. program with a focus in one of three areas including Rehabilitation Sciences, Applied Physiology, or Health Aspects of Physical Activity.
The 3-year Clinical Doctoral program starts in August of each year and admits a small class size of 30 students that allows students an opportunity to receive highly individualized instruction and closely interact with instructors. Students complete a research project focused on clinical practice and learn the value of evidence-based practice. Following completion of the Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT), students are eligible to sit for the national physical therapy licensure exam.
Explore the specific application deadlines and requirements.
To prepare Doctors of Physical Therapy who skillfully engage in person-centered compassionate, evidence-based care to optimize function and health across the lifespan.
The Physical Therapy Program strives to positively impact the health and well-being of individuals, communities, and society. Through inquiry, innovation, and integrity we aim to foster graduates and faculty to be exceptional practitioners, researchers, and leaders. This focus is based upon the philosophy that physical therapy practice is dynamic and requires engagement in lifelong learning including the application, evaluation, and generation of new knowledge.
The Doctoral Physical Therapy Program at the University of South Carolina is dedicated to maintaining a culture that emphasizes life-long learning and excellence in evidence-based practice. The doctoral curriculum is sequenced to provide students with a foundation upon which clinical skills are developed and refined. Clinical experiences are designed to provide students with the opportunity to practice and advance clinical skills that are sequenced to complement didactic instruction. Graduates are encouraged to further their professional development though pursuit of advanced degrees, residencies, fellowships and employment in settings with active mentorship.
The Gamecock DPT Program’s newsletter highlights the collaborative and innovative scholarship and community impact made
by Gamecock DPT students and faculty.
A lifelong Gamecock, going to USC was a forgone conclusion for Michael Paslawski. Still, the smalltown South Carolinian found the flagship university's size (both its population and sprawling campus) to be a bit of an adjustment his freshman year.
Now that he's reached the finish line, Trystan Ruiz has two important milestones coming up. The first is a position at Fyzical Therapy & Balance Centers in Oklahoma City. The second is the birth of their son, who is due in January.
After graduating this month, Makenzie Anderson will join Encompass Health as a physical therapist in their inpatient rehabilitation hospital. Based on her positive experiences at the Arnold School, she also plans to pursue teaching.
Meet Ty Collier! He's a triple USC alum, with two degrees from the Arnold School (B.S. in Exercise Science & Doctor of Physical Therapy). Learn how he makes a difference in the state he loves.
A new collaborative research study from USC Brain Health and the Arnold School goes one step further by examining how consistent, physical exercise can also help combat cognitive decline and improve overall neurological health.
With interests in geriatrics and vestibular rehabilitation, Outstanding DPT Student of the Year Award winner Alejandra Medina-Reyes will soon begin a Geriatrics Physical Therapy Residency.
Fifteen years after graduating with his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, Brandon Vaughn is the CEO of Vertex Physical Therapy Specialists, which provides customized care at three Midlands locations and through a home health branch.