Course descriptionAlabama State University offers the Clinical Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. This three-year degree prepares graduates as entry level physical therapists eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy. Licensure is necessary to practice physical therapy.
“Physical Therapy is a dynamic profession with an established theoretical base and widespread clinical applications in the preservation, development, and restoration of optimal physical function. Every day, physical therapists in the United States help approximately 1 million people alleviate pain; prevent the onset and progression of impairment, functional limitation, disability, or changes in physical function and health status resulting from injury, disease, or other causes; and restore, maintain and promote overall fitness and optimum quality of life as related to movement and health.
As essential participants in the healthcare delivery system, physical therapists assume leadership roles in rehabilitation services, prevention and health maintenance programs, and professional and community or4ganizations. They also play important roles in developing healthcare policy and appropriate standards for the various elements of physical therapist practice to ensure availability, accessibility, and excellence in the delivery of physical therapy services.” – Guide to Physical Therapist Practice, July 1999