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As chronic health conditions become more prevalent, the aging population explodes, and our healthcare system places greater emphasis on preventative care, the demand for Physical Therapists (PTs) is on the rise. Leveraging a wide range of treatment modalities—from stretching and strengthening exercises to manual therapies like massage or joint manipulation to assistive technologies like ultrasound or electrical stimulation—PTs help individuals of all ages recover, improve, or maintain their physical abilities and quality of life.
SCU’s online-hybrid Doctor of Physical Therapy program provides a unique blend of remote and in-person learning, enabling students with a variety of work and life commitments to launch careers in this rapidly expanding field.
While many Doctor of Physical Therapy programs take roughly three years to complete, ours takes just two. And thanks to a unique blend of online and in-person instruction, you can pursue your dream of becoming a Physical Therapist without relocating or abandoning your personal and professional commitments. At SCU, you’ll attend lectures online but receive essential hands-on training and clinical experiences live and in-person. During Year 1, you’ll come to our campus in Whittier California six times (7-10 days per visit) for immersive lab training. During Year 2, you’ll put your learning into practice during your real-world clinical rotations, at a location near your hometown (subject to availability).
Students will broaden clinical skills at various partner sites nationwide. SCU collaborates with more than 500 private practices specializing in fields like pediatrics, sports medicine, integrative medicine, and functional medicine, in addition to Veterans’ Health Administration (VA) hospitals, renowned teaching hospitals, Division 1 athletic programs, Federally Qualified Health Centers, and Hispanic-serving community clinics.
At SCU, you won’t learn anatomy solely through textbooks and technology. You’ll have the powerful opportunity to learn in our cadaver lab—a classic teaching method offering unparalleled insight into the shape, feel, and function of the body. During this awe-inspiring experience, you’ll examine and dissect real human tissues and structures, gaining an understanding of human anatomy that is simply not possible through textbooks and virtual models alone.
In addition to classroom lessons and hands-on clinical training, we support your learning through advanced teaching technology including:
Most of today’s healthcare colleges offer an “interprofessional education” through which students learn with, from, and about other disciplines. But at SCU, our Interprofessional Education is broader and, frankly, we think that makes it better. Unlike other colleges, we teach you about both conventional and complementary disciplines—not just one or the other—because we believe in both and we teach both, all under one roof.
All too often, healthcare providers “stay in their lanes” rather than building comprehensive care plans that include other disciplines, professionals, and approaches. In addition, they look strictly at the physical body as opposed to all the factors that may be influencing a patient’s health and well-being—genetics, lifestyle, mental health, relationships, physical environments, community support, and beyond. But at SCU, no matter what program you are in, you’ll learn to blend the best of conventional and complementary approaches (integrative healthcare) and to treat the entire mind, body, and spirit (whole health)—for true lasting wellness.
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. The initial accreditation decision will be determined at CAPTE’s fall meeting in October of 2027. Graduates of the charter class will be eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Examination in October of 2027, the first time that the exam is offered after graduation in August of 2027. 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. On November 1, 2024, the program submitted an Application for Candidacy, which is the formal application required in the pre-accreditation stage. 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
Our practitioner faculty bring timely experience to the classroom every day, supplementing their lectures with practical advice. Discover real-world insights from faculty who currently practice physical therapy, and who are deeply connected to the field beyond a theoretical and academic perspective. At the intersection of two worlds, our practitioner faculty helps guide your first steps into the world of physical therapy practice, paving the way for a more gentle and gradual transition from student to professional.
Frank J Bates, DPT, MBA, GCS, CEEAA, CFPS
Director of Clinical Education, Doctor of Physical Therapy - CA
Daniel Diaz, PhD, DPT, BS
Admissions Coordinator, Doctor of Physical Therapy Program - CA
DPT CA Core Faculty
Dustin Willis, DPT
Student Success Coordinator, Doctor of Physical Therapy Program - CA
DPT CA Core Faculty
Pei-Tzu Wu, PT, PhD, CCS
Curriculum Coordinator, Doctor of Physical Therapy Program - CA
DPT CA Core Faculty
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. The initial accreditation decision will be determined at CAPTE’s fall meeting in October of 2027. Graduates of the charter class will be eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Examination in October of 2027, the first time that the exam is offered after graduation in August of 2027. 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. On November 1, 2024, the program submitted an Application for Candidacy, which is the formal application required in the pre-accreditation stage. 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.
Applicants interested in being considered for special admissions may be qualified for consideration due to unique life experiences, which may include advanced education or professional work experience. This person must also demonstrate outstanding character. Interested students should complete all application documents, including entry-level DPT application, transcripts, resume, background check, and clinical observation verification. The PTCA Faculty admission committee, in consultation with the program director, may have the flexibility to waive requirements on an individual basis.
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 | $225 | $19,587 | ||||
Totals | $114,228 | $1,944 | $130 | $225 | $150 | $46 | $445 | $117,168 |
*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
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Financing Your Dreams
We are proud to offer a fixed tuition guarantee, federal financial aid for those who qualify, and a range of institutional and program-specific scholarship opportunities.