Education

The Divisionof Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy at the University of Southern California has been at the forefront of educational trends in physical therapy almost since its founding in 1943. The Division has successfully transitioned its professional programs from a bachelor’s degree to a Master’s degree to the Doctor of Physical Therapy degree as the first professional degree in physical therapy. In 1984, the Division became the first physical therapy program in the country to directly award a Ph.D. degree in Biokinesiology, the foundation science of physical therapy. The Division has enjoyed a national and international reputation for excellence in physical therapy education having been ranked No. 1 in the nation in the most recent U.S. News and World Report ranking of graduate programs in physical therapy.

PROGRAMS OF STUDY

Entry Level Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Degree Prepares physical therapists to become autonomous practitioners, capable of evaluating and treating patients without the need for referral from another practitioner, such as a physician or dentist. Entry Level DPT students spend a total of 44 weeks in clinical education experiences over their three year curriculum.
M.S. in Biokinesiology Degree Prepares graduates to be skilled in the design and implementation of basic science and clinical research. Graduates complete a research project under the guidance of an advisor.
Ph.D. in Biokinesiology Degree Prepares graduates to be independent research scientists and academic faculty members prepared to conduct collaborative interdisciplinary research. Graduates complete a dissertation project under the guidance of an advisor.
Residency in Neurologic Physical Therapy Prepares graduates to contribute to advanced clinical practice, teach clinical skills to others, and add to the ever-growing body of knowledge in neurologic physical therapy.
Residency in Orthopedic Physical Therapy Prepares graduates to become advanced practitioners of orthopaedic physical therapy who will express their education through excellence in the practice and teaching of clinical skills, who will continue to expand the body of knowledge in their specialty by conducting and publishing clinical research and who will make a lasting contribution to their local and professional community.