The field of physical therapy is rapidly expanding.
The job market is ideal for people entering the field of physical therapy. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the job market for physical therapists will continue to grow by a better than average rate of 30% through 2018. A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree is necessary for success in this field.
University of Southern California
Listed as the No.1 physical therapy degree program in the nation, the University of Southern California (USC) in Los Angeles tops U.S. News & World Report's latest rankings completed in 2008. The USC Division of Physical Therapy has pioneered research in the field since it was established in 1945 and is renowned for its plethora of degree programs. In addition to the DPT degree, students may pursue a master's or Ph.D. in biokinesiology. The USC physical therapy program offers three residency programs in the fields of neurologic practice, orthopedic practice, and sports physical therapy, and also sponsors a number of clinics and clinical research labs.
University of Southern California
Department of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy
1540 Alcazar St.
Los Angeles, CA 90089
323-442-2900
pt.usc.edu
University of Pittsburgh
The University of Pittsburgh holds the No. 2 spot in U.S. News & World Report rankings of best physical therapy programs in the United States. The university's School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences not only offers a DPT curriculum, but also a number of bachelor's and master's degree programs in related fields. The bachelor of science, master of science and Ph.D. are all offered in the field of rehabilitation science. Several other master of science degrees are offered as well in areas such as neuromuscular and musculoskeletal physical therapy, rehabilitation science and technology, rehabilitation counseling, prosthetics and orthotics, sports medicine, and health and human wellness. The Ph.D. program has nine separate areas of concentration, including biomechanical evaluation, assistive technology and the psychosocial, cultural, and behavioral aspects of rehabilitation and disability, among others.
University of Pittsburgh
Department of Physical Therapy
4020 Forbes Tower
Pittsburgh , PA 15260
412-383-6558
www.shrs.pitt.edu/dpt
Washington University in St. Louis
Washington University in St. Louis is tied at No. 2 with the University of Pittsburgh in the U.S. News & World Report 2008 rankings. As one of the leading medical schools in the nation, it's no surprise that Washington University has a top-rated physical therapy program. The university offers not only the DPT degree, but also a post-professional program for physical therapists wanting to enhance their current practice. Washington University also offers a joint DPT/Ph.D degree. Research studies focus on the fields of applied biomechanics and kinesiology, health promotion research, movement science, musculoskeletal analysis, posture and movement, nutrition and exercise physiology, neurorehabilitation, locomotor control and translational physiology research.
Washington University in St. Louis
4444 Forest Park Boulevard
St. Louis, MO 63108
314-286-1400
pt.wustl.edu
Tags: Washington University, physical therapy, University Pittsburgh, News World, News World Report