Doctor of Physical Therapy – Phoenix Metro

Dear Future Physical Therapists,

Welcome to the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Southern California University of Health Sciences – Phoenix Metro location!

As a physical therapist and educator who has had the privilege of founding a DPT program and guiding it through full accreditation, I can tell you with confidence: there is nothing more rewarding than watching students grow into skilled clinicians who go on to impact thousands of patients’ lives. That impact, the ripple effect you will have on your patients, your communities, and this profession, is what drives everything we do here.

Our program is built on a foundation of evidence-informed practice, interprofessional collaboration, and integrative healthcare. You’re joining a university that understands how different healthcare disciplines can work together to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care. This isn’t just theory, it’s woven into our institutional DNA, and you’ll experience it throughout your education here.

You’ll find that my approach as a Program Director is grounded in my training as an epidemiologist: I believe in making decisions based on the best available evidence, in asking good questions, and in continuously evaluating what works and what doesn’t. Our qualified and talented faculty bring that same rigor to support your success. We will build a program culture where clinical reasoning, whole-health, and reflective practice aren’t just buzzwords; they’re daily expectations that will prepare you for the complexity of real-world patient care.

This journey will challenge you. You will grow in ways you might not expect. But you’ll do it as part of a community committed to your success, faculty who are invested in your development, classmates who will become lifelong colleagues, and a program built intentionally to prepare you for the dynamic healthcare landscape ahead.

Together, we’re creating a program that prepares outstanding physical therapists, clinicians who think critically, practice compassionately, and make meaningful contributions to the health and well-being of the communities they serve.

I look forward to working alongside you.

Kellee Harper-Hanigan, PT, DPT, PhD, WCC, FNAP
Board Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist
Program Director & Professor
Doctor of Physical Therapy Program – Phoenix Metro
Southern California University of Health Sciences