edX Online
Background Image
online dpt programs
University of Southern California Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Hybrid

University of Southern California Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Hybrid

Define the future of physical therapy education with a DPT degree from USC’s Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy.

3

Years to complete the program

44

Weeks of clinical experiences

12

On-campus immersions

About the program

  • Hybrid pathway:

    The hybrid DPT program combines engaging online learning with in-person immersion experiences at USC and clinical experiences in your community.

  • CAPTE-accredited:

    The hybrid DPT program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) — you’re in good hands.

  • Top-ranked program:

    The hybrid DPT program is a top-ranked physical therapy program according to the U.S. News & World Report.Footnote 1

About USC Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy 

Founded in 1945, the USC Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy is renowned for its rigor and continual leadership in advancing physical therapy education. The Division extends this legacy — and its reach — to learners across the country with the hybrid DPT program. Through this flexible format, learners emerge leaders in physical therapy education, science, and practice.

Tuition and fees

Tuition and feesTuition cost$218,809

Tuition and fees are subject to change and may increase each academic year. Tuition does not include student fees, technology platform licensing, or support services. Learners are also responsible for travel and accommodation costs related to any in-person immersions or residentials.

Technology and services powered by 2U, Inc., the parent company of edX.

Featured courses

The hybrid DPT program is designed and taught by esteemed USC faculty. The 115-credit curriculum offers a broad spectrum of physical therapy theory and practice, preparing learners to think critically about physical therapy management across all major body systems, and across the life span. Through live, online sessions and asynchronous learning, learners:

  • Complete self-guided, immersive coursework:

    which is accessible 24/7. The coursework helps learners reinforce new knowledge and reflect on key concepts for physical therapy practice.

  • Participate in highly interactive live classes:

    Classes have an approximate 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio — which makes for an engaging and intimate educational experience.

  • Gain knowledge and guidance through deep discussions:

    witha faculty composed of scientists and clinicians. Examine the relevance and application of course materials, and how they may apply to your future practice.

  • Collaborate in small groups:

    during live sessions to problem-solve and discuss topics and case studies. Learners network with peers and form long lasting professional relationships.

  • Develop and refine physical therapy skills:

    in preparation for on-campus immersions and clinical experiences.

Request more info

Admissions

The hybrid DPT program offers one start date per year. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university by the date of projected enrollment. GRE scores are not required. To complete an application, you will need to submit:

  • Online application 

  • Transcripts 

  • Three essays 

  • Three letters of recommendation

Experiential learning

Clinical experiences and immersions are an integral part of the program. They help connect online class material to the very hands-on skills essential to physical therapy practice. As a learner in the program, you will participate in the following:

On-campus immersions: Learners visit USC’s world-class physical therapy learning laboratories approximately 12 times for in-person immersions. During these experiences, learners build and refine the skills they will need to help optimize human movement — skills such as physical evaluation, manual therapy and facilitation techniques, gait training, and exercise instruction. 

Learners get to network with faculty and peers, too, as well as enhance skills in particular areas of interest during extended on-campus office hours.

Clinical experiences: Learners complete a total of 44 full-time weeks of clinical experiences at USC-approved sites, in the community of their choice. During these experiences, learners practice in at least six distinct placement sites in a broad spectrum of physical therapy settings. 

Learners partner with a clinical placement specialist to find and secure clinical sites in or near their communities; gain support from USC faculty, who are available for one-on-one office hours; and receive guidance from a clinical instructor as they work with patients in a real-world setting.

Want to learn more?

Request more info