Physical Therapy | Springfield College

Physical Therapy

DUAL DEGREE
PRE-PT TO DOCTORATE OF PHYSICAL THERAPY
About This Program
Program Contact

Kathy Pappas
Admissions Chair
Department of Physical Therapy
(413) 748-3590
kpappas2@springfield.edu

Curriculum and Delivery
  • Courses offered on campus in Springfield, Mass.
  • Graduate level coursework includes content in anatomy, neuroanatomy, kinesiology, clinical sciences, organization and delivery of healthcare, research methodology, and statistics, as well as full-time clinical experiences in approved clinical education facilities
  • Clinical content is taught by licensed physical therapists who are experts in their specialty area
  • Benefit from hands-on learning in our state-of-the-art physical therapy labs, which include both human anatomy and simulation labs
  • Participate in service learning projects, such as the on-campus community mobility clinic and community exercise groups
  • Become eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE),  which is required to become licensed as a physical therapist
Resources
Career Opportunities
Paying for Your Education
Did You Know?

We offer a dual degree Dance/Pre-PT to DPT

Upcoming Events

Check back later for more events!

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1nCqOj8oFsW3td0HQun6Y6cxBparJb0TT?usp=drive_link

The Bachelor of Science in Health Science: Pre-Physical Therapy to Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) at Springfield College can be completed in just 6.5 years. Coursework in physical therapy enables students to develop advanced problem-solving skills in examination, program planning, and treatment of those who need physical therapy services. 

The program integrates the Springfield College Humanics philosophy in total patient care, including the intellectual, physical, and spiritual aspects of treating the whole person within diverse social, political, and economic contexts.

Graduates possess a broad knowledge in the science and practice of physical therapy, as well as a clinically based understanding of administration, research, and evidence-based practice. In addition, students have the opportunity for advanced study in selected areas of physical therapy. 

At the end of the third year of undergraduate studies, students who satisfy all prerequisite requirements enter the first year of doctoral work while completing remaining undergraduate credits. After four years, the student earns a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Science/Pre-Physical Therapy while continuing with doctoral coursework. 

Entering into the professional coursework from the pre-physical therapy program is seamless. You’ll advance into the professional Doctor of Physical Therapy component upon completing the required courses, and meeting our academic standards. There is no formal re-application process. And, with program outcomes like ours, you can enter into this program knowing you'll find success. 

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, the graduate is awarded a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and is eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam and apply for state licensure.

“If you are accepted into the program, you don’t need to think twice about coming here. Springfield College is a special place, and this program is one of the best, so take advantage of the opportunity.” Taryn Ryan, Class of 2025
Taryn Ryan - Springfield College
Physical Therapy Major

Zach Varnauskas '21

"I am proud of my classroom accomplishments and leadership experiences I gained at Springfield College. The lessons and skills I learned helped me become confident in my interpersonal skills and communication skills when working with patients. Springfield College taught me to work in a team setting, and be able to build rapport with my patients. I have found great success providing care for my patients with therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and modalities. I value evidence-based practice and am eager to participate in continuing education via mentors and post-graduate courses in order to become the best physical therapist I can become. The Springfield College physical therapy program is the best, the faculty members provide the perfect amount of support to get you ready for a career as a PT."

Zach Varnauskas
Physical Therapist, Access Physical Therapy & Wellness, Inc. 

Zach Varnauskas in cap and gown holding diploma.

The New Health Sciences Center at Springfield College

The new Springfield College Health Sciences Center empowers transformative approaches to education, career enhancement, service, research, and leadership in healthcare. The Center builds on the success of the School of Health Sciences, and ensure its standing as the leading choice for the finest students, faculty, and staff.

An architect's rendering of the health science center at Springfield College
Physical Therapy Accreditation

The Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Springfield College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia, 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 413-748-3590 or email physicaltherapy@springfieldcollege.edu

Incoming first year Springfield College students participate in June Orientation on Alden Street
Core Curriculum

Our curriculum is designed in faithfulness to the Springfield College mission and to further strengthen the Humanics philosophy of educating students in spirit, mind, and body.

Student at the Learning Commons
Career Center

The Career Center’s mission is to educate, inspire, and empower students and alumni to effectively make well-informed career decisions. The staff is committed to student learning and development, and offers a variety of opportunities and programming for students and alumni.

The Academic Success Center offers readily and easily accessible services including support in writing, mathematics, science, subject area tutoring, learning strategies and time management counseling, and assistance for students with documented disabilities.
Academic Success Center

The Academic Success Center offers readily and easily accessible services including support in writing, mathematics, science, subject area tutoring, learning strategies and time management counseling, and assistance for students with documented disabilities.

American Council of Academic Physical Therapy Member Institution