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6 TERMS | 2 YEARS, FULL-TIME
FALL: SEPTEMBER 2nd, 2025
The need for physical therapists is on the rise, and with a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from SCU, you’ll have a set of skills to lead in this expanding arena. Our online-hybrid accelerated program is designed to offer the perfect blend of location flexibility and hands-on experience, allowing you to learn on-campus, in the field, and online. While most of the coursework can be completed remotely, our program includes immersive lab experiences at our campus in Whittier, CA where you’ll have the opportunity to apply theory to practice under the guidance of our experienced faculty. In your second year, you’ll step into clinical education placements, gaining priceless real-world experience that will sharpen your skills and ready you for your career.
Experience the best of both worlds with our remote and on-campus learning approach. Our flexible online-hybrid model offers a balance of online coursework and hands-on training. Lecture content is delivered conveniently online, while essential lab skills are honed on-campus in Whittier, CA. These on-campus sessions occur twice per term (6 in total), each lasting approximately 7-10 days during Year 1 of the program. We strive to accommodate clinical rotations near your hometown during Year 2, placements are subject to availability.
Cadaver-based anatomy is a classic teaching method that offers invaluable lessons and insight into the shape, feel, and function of the body. During this experience for future DPTs, students express reverence and awe as they approach the body to make their first cut in real tissues and structures. The cadaver lab offers unparalleled insight into anatomical variation, structure, and function to help you become an outstanding provider.
SCU’s model of experiential learning in interprofessional settings combines learning alongside other healthcare disciplines, coursework, clinical experiences, and community engagement to expose students to a variety of philosophies, practices, and treatment options; help students develop a broad base of knowledge; and prepare future healthcare professionals with a deep understanding of integrative, evidence and team-based, whole-person healthcare.
Education at SCU is supplemented by anatomical teaching tools. Advanced learning technologies include:
We aim to have students learn in a variety of clinical environments, including rotations in diverse settings such as hospitals, community clinics, outreach programs, and more. Students outside of the Los Angeles region have the opportunity to have clinical rotations near their hometown. Placements are subject to availability and are not guaranteed.
The doctoral program qualifies for federal financial aid support and most students will qualify. Contact the Office of Financial Aid at FinancialAid@scuhs.edu to learn more.
Have a question for SCU?
Submit an inquiry for more information on the program or call/email to speak to an Admissions Advisor.
Graduation from a physical therapist education program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education, 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; phone; 703-706-3245; accreditation@apta.org is necessary for eligibility to sit for the licensure examination, which is required in all states. Candidacy is considered to be an accredited status, as such the credits and degree earned from a program with Candidacy status are considered, by CAPTE, to be from an accredited program. Therefore, students in the charter (first) class should be eligible to take the licensure exam even if CAPTE withholds accreditation at the end of the candidacy period. That said, it is up to each state licensing agency, not CAPTE, to determine who is eligible for licensure. Information on licensing requirements should be directed to the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT: www.fsbpt.org) or specific state boards (a list of state boards and contact information is available on FSBPT’s website.
Southern California University of Health Sciences is seeking accreditation of a new physical therapist education program from CAPTE. The program is planning to submit an Application for Candidacy, which is the formal application required in the pre-accreditation stage, on November 1, 2024. Submission of this document does not assure that the program will be granted Candidate for Accreditation status. Achievement of Candidate for Accreditation status is required prior to implementation of the professional phase of the program; therefore, no students may be enrolled in professional courses until Candidate for Accreditation status has been achieved. Further, though achievement of Candidate for Accreditation status signifies satisfactory progress toward accreditation, it does not assure that the program will be granted accreditation.
For full program information, view our catalog.
We are proud to offer a unique blended program where students will experience online instruction from wherever is most convenient for them without the need to relocate. This model is particularly beneficial for those tied up geographically due to family commitments or other responsibilities, but are also interested in expanding their career possibilities. The online learning component allows you the flexibility to access educational materials and courses from anywhere with an internet connection. Online courses will incorporate a variety of multimedia elements such as videos, interactive quizzes, and simulations, enhancing the learning experience.
Students come to our Whittier, CA campus six times in the first year to learn hands-on skills in lab immersions. While on campus, students have access to facilities that include classroom, study, and library spaces and other amenities such as a café, study rooms, an outdoor student space, and free parking. During the second year, students participate in fieldwork experiences near the location where they reside. This learning style is highly collaborative, engaging, and rigorous, requiring students to be self-starters, highly organized, motivated, and open to learning in new ways.
Hands-on skills will be developed in person during lab immersions, meaning students must come to campus twice each term in Year 1 for about 7-10 days each visit. During on-campus labs, students will build community within their cohort and apply their skills under the guidance of our experienced faculty, alongside students from various professions, broadening their perspective and enhancing their ability to provide holistic care to patients.
In Year 2, students will collaborate with the Director of Clinical Education regarding upcoming clinical placements across our nationwide network of partner clinics to identify a location close to them gaining invaluable real-world experience.
All didactic (instructor-led lectures) will be delivered online between the on-campus lab immersions. Students will engage in self-paced online lectures and interactive online lectures.
This program model is designed for the modern learner and develops technical expertise for a generation of DPTs prepared for the future of healthcare. By streamlining the educational process in this way, we’re empowering aspiring physical therapists to enter the workforce sooner and make an immediate impact in their communities. The curriculum has students completing their education in as little as 2 years.
Dear Prospective Doctor of Physical Therapy Students,
It is my distinct pleasure to extend a warm welcome to you on behalf of the Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU). As the Director of the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce you to our esteemed institution and the exciting journey that lies ahead.
Choosing the right Doctor of Physical Therapy program is a pivotal moment in your academic and professional career, and we understand the importance of finding the perfect fit for your goals and aspirations. At SCU, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and dynamic learning environment that prepares our students to become exceptional physical therapy practitioners and leaders in the field.
Our DPT program is designed to provide you with a comprehensive education grounded in evidence-based practice, clinical expertise, and compassionate patient care. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, on-campus immersions, and hands-on clinical experiences, you will develop the knowledge, skills, and clinical reasoning abilities necessary to excel in today’s evolving healthcare landscape.
As a student at SCU, you will benefit from the expertise of our distinguished faculty members who are leaders in the field of physical therapy. Our faculty are dedicated to providing personalized attention and mentorship to help you succeed academically and professionally. Additionally, our facilities and resources offer you the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning experiences that will enhance your clinical skills and prepare you for real-world practice.
Beyond the classroom, SCU is committed to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community where students can thrive personally and professionally. With a diverse student body representing a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with peers, build lasting relationships, and contribute to the rich tapestry of our university community.
I invite you to explore all that SCU has to offer and discover why our DPT program is the right choice for your educational and professional journey. Whether you are drawn to our commitment to excellence, our innovative approach to physical therapy education, or our vibrant campus community, we are confident that you will find your place here at SCU.
Thank you for considering Southern California University of Health Sciences for your Doctor of Physical Therapy education. We look forward to welcoming you to our campus and supporting you as you embark on this exciting chapter of your life.
Warm regards,
Professor and Program Director
Doctor of Physical Therapy
All physical therapist education programs in the United States are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; phone; 703-706-3245; accreditation@apta.org ; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 562-575-4604 or email DPTAdmissions@scuhs.edu.
Graduation from a physical therapist education program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education, 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; phone; 703-706-3245; accreditation@apta.org is necessary for eligibility to sit for the licensure examination, which is required in all states. Candidacy is considered to be an accredited status, as such the credits and degree earned from a program with Candidacy status are considered, by CAPTE, to be from an accredited program. Therefore, students in the charter (first) class should be eligible to take the licensure exam even if CAPTE withholds accreditation at the end of the candidacy period. That said, it is up to each state licensing agency, not CAPTE, to determine who is eligible for licensure. Information on licensing requirements should be directed to the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT: www.fsbpt.org) or specific state boards (a list of state boards and contact information is available on FSBPT’s website.
Southern California University of Health Sciences is seeking accreditation of a new physical therapist education program from CAPTE. The program is planning to submit an Application for Candidacy, which is the formal application required in the pre-accreditation stage, on November 1, 2024. Submission of this document does not assure that the program will be granted Candidate for Accreditation status. Achievement of Candidate for Accreditation status is required prior to implementation of the professional phase of the program; therefore, no students may be enrolled in professional courses until Candidate for Accreditation status has been achieved. Further, though achievement of Candidate for Accreditation status signifies satisfactory progress toward accreditation, it does not assure that the program will be granted accreditation.
Education programs that provide distance education outside their home state boundaries (including out-of-state clinical experiential learning) are required to assure comparable national standards for interstate postsecondary distance education.
Within California, programs providing such distance education or experiential learning opportunities need to make specific reciprocity agreements with each state.
Students wishing to complete a clinical experience in one of these states may be able to have such an opportunity arranged.* States that are not on the list of approved distance education partners will not be available for such an opportunity. However, the list is updated regularly, so check back periodically or contact us for more information (DPTAdmissions@scuhs.edu).
The SCU DPT program will prepare students for licensure in any state (see National Examination and Licensure).
Providing Feedback or Reporting a Complaint About the DPT Program:
If you are a student in the program, you can find the Student Grievances Policy in the University Catalog
If you are making a complaint outside of due process – as a parent, patient, etc. – the Program encourages you to attempt to resolve any issues directly with the party involved. In the event that the issue cannot be resolved through direct discussion, any person with a complaint or constructive feedback for the program of physical therapy can submit the complaint or constructive feedback in writing to the Program Director. The Director will respond to such request(s) in writing within two weeks of submission. If the Program Director is involved in the complaint, or if there is an appearance of a conflict of interest, the complaint will be elevated to the Dean who will respond in writing within 2 weeks. Electronic records of all complaints will be maintained by the DPT Program Administrative Assistant. Retaliation of any type following complaint submission is prohibited.
Feedback can be sent to craigruby@scuhs.edu
Formal complaints that allege that the DPT program is not in compliance with one or more of CAPTE’s Standards and Required Elements or that the Program has violated CAPTE’s standards related to academic integrity may be filed with CAPTE. If the complaint falls within the due process described for the Program, CAPTE requires that the institutional grievance process is completed prior to initiating the complaint with CAPTE, unless the complainant alleges that the complaint process is not being handled in a timely manner. If the complaint is related to situations that fall outside of due process policies, the complaint may be filed at any time. More details about the complaint process can be found at http://www.capteonline.org/Complaints/.
To obtain materials for submitting a complaint, contact the APTA Accreditation Department at (703)706-3245 or at accreditation@apta.org
At SCU, our admissions process is intentionally designed to reduce barriers and provide accessible education that values diverse backgrounds, experiences, and talents to students nationwide. SCU welcomes applications from qualified students from other countries. The general admission requirements are identical for all applicants, regardless of citizenship. However, immigration regulations, varying educational backgrounds, and financial considerations require additional procedures necessary for international students. DPT students are not eligible for an I-20.
Important Dates for our current application cycle:
What we require:
Applications must be submitted through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS) portal. Applications may be submitted with pending requirements; however, applications will not be reviewed until at least 25 credits of the prerequisite courses are complete. Applications with in-progress degrees will be reviewed if all other requirements have been met and the anticipated degree completion date is before matriculation into the DPT program.
SCU’s holistic admission process accounts for three admission areas. Academics is only one of them, so having qualities in the areas of personal traits or skills and background characteristics can strengthen your application. We also offer a special admission pathway to candidates who have life experiences that would be considered valuable. Academic history is intentionally balanced by personal traits that reflect those needed within the healthcare environment to promote a learning community that can learn together and from each other, as we all focus on developing excellence and celebrating differences.
A. Bachelor’s Degree Requirement
U.S. Bachelor’s Degree or higher from an accredited institution (college or university). An accredited college or university is an institution that holds active accreditation recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or an equivalent foreign agency. A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (generally expected).
B. Prerequisite Courses
All prerequisite courses must be completed at an accredited U.S. college or university. We will consider applications from international students who have completed their education at foreign institutions, subject to review following a World Education Services (WES) evaluation. Official transcripts verifying successful course completion must be submitted through PTCAS with grades averaging a C or higher.
Students missing a prerequisite course requirement or looking to improve their GPA can choose to take an SCU Accelerated Science course and complete the requirements in as little as five weeks. SCU’s Accelerated Science courses are prequalified if they meet the requirements listed above. Click here to learn more.
To experience what a physical therapist (PT) does and what is involved in this career, we ask that prospective students have 40 hours (paid or volunteer) observing or assisting a licensed PT. Types of settings may include outpatient settings (pediatrics, orthopedics, neurological, geriatrics, etc.) or inpatient settings (hospitals or skilled nursing facilities). An alternative option that we will accept is a PT setting with proven interactions with diverse populations (children, athletes, seniors, etc.).
Before starting the program, information about additional requirements will be provided. These may include the following requirements, which must be completed prior to matriculation:
$114,228 in tuition to complete the program.*
SCU’s Fixed Rate Tuition Guarantee for degree programs allows you to plan your educational investment.
Benefits of our Fixed Tuition Guarantee:
*Tuition rate reflected above represents the fixed rate for a student entering during the 2024-2025 academic year. Tuition rates are subject to change and may not be reflected on this website or other SCU materials. Please contact us for the most updated information.
**Some limitations apply. View the Fixed Rate Tuition Guarantee page for more information
Scholarship information is available on the APTA website (www.apta.org).
Charges from SCU by Term | Charges from Third Parties by Term | |||||||
Term | Tuition | Program Fees | EXXAT Fees | Petition to Graduate Fee | Background Check | Basic Life Support CPR | Medical Equipment | Total |
1 | $21,042 | $324 | $130 | $150 | $46 | $445 | $22,137 | |
2 | $18,036 | $324 | $18,360 | |||||
3 | $20,040 | $324 | $20,364 | |||||
4 | $19,038 | $324 | $19,362 | |||||
5 | $17,034 | $324 | $17,358 | |||||
6 | $19,038 | $324 | $150 | $19,512 | ||||
Totals | $114,228 | $1,944 | $130 | $150 | $150 | $46 | $445 | $117,093 |
*Tuition is charged at $1,002 per credit hour.
**Program fees listed are for the 2024/2025 academic year and are subject to change. Program fees include charges for technology, malpractice insurance, professional affiliation, student health, and ASB.
** Books, supplies, additional background checks, drug screens, and other equipment not included in the tuition and fee schedule may be required for this program.
Physical therapists enjoy rewarding work, and they command competitive salaries. The field is multifaceted offering a plethora of specialties and career paths. Whether you’re passionate about orthopedics, pediatrics, neurology, sports medicine, or geriatrics, our program equips you with the knowledge and skills to pursue your interests. From rehabilitating athletes to aiding children with developmental disabilities, the possibilities are endless.
We encourage students interested in our DPT program to visit the American Physical Therapy Association website, arrange to speak with a physical therapist in your area, and/or spend time volunteering (or working as a physical therapy aide) in a physical therapy setting to gain a greater understanding of the profession.
Choosing to earn your Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) opens the door to a rewarding career where you can make a meaningful impact on people’s lives every day. You’ll have the privilege of helping people of all ages and backgrounds improve their mobility, manage pain, and regain independence. With a strong demand for physical therapists, competitive salaries, and opportunities for specialization, pursuing a DPT not only offers financial stability but also allows you to fulfill your passion for helping others achieve optimal health and wellness.
Expected growth between 2022 and 20321
U.S. News & World Report Best Health Care Jobs2
Average annual wage for physical therapists in California3
1 Based on O*Net 2018-2028, Physical Therapists in California
2 https://money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/physical-therapist
You wouldn’t be looking at this program if you weren’t interested in helping people find their healthiest life. Your dedication and enthusiasm for the growing movement toward whole-person wellness are what makes you the perfect fit for SCU. Now, begin to discover why we’re the perfect fit for you.
Our approach to Interprofessional Education is unique in California and across the country. Here, modern medicine unites with ancient and traditional healing arts to create an environment of engagement. SCU’s groundbreaking IPE model combines curriculum, clinic, community, and clubs to help you develop a broader base of knowledge and gain a deeper appreciation for different perspectives on care which leads to a seamless transition from student to practitioner.
We bring together aspiring students from different disciplines so you can learn and excel side-by-side. The depth and breadth of this dynamic experience will prepare you to one day take the lead in a collaborative, interprofessional practice.
View our application requirements above or fill out a request for information to start speaking with an enrollment advisor today.
Students at SCU have many financial assistance opportunities available to them in order to cover their educational expenses. It is the policy of the Financial Aid Office to assist our students as much as possible to afford their education. Talk with a financial counselor by calling (562) 947-8755 ext 766 or click here to learn more
Fixed Tuition Guarantee Benefits:
It’s not always possible to come to campus. However, there are a variety of ways to see buildings and spaces, interact with current students, and ask staff questions no matter where you are. Check out our virtual experiences to make connections and learn what it is like to be part of the University.
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