PhD in Physical Therapy at Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University

United States of America, Saint Louis

University Rank:#951

The Physical Therapy is a PhD degree offered by Saint Louis University at its main campus in Saint Louis , United States of America. The program is delivered on campus as a Full Time course in English and requires approximately 4 years to complete. Students study at the university's main campus while gaining the knowledge and practical experience expected for this area of study. The next intake is available from August 23, 2027.

About PhD in Physical Therapy

Saint Louis University's program in physical therapy offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) degree. For the early-assurance (freshman-entry), it is a six-year curriculum, including two summers. Students admitted as freshman receive a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science - Physical Therapy (B.S.E.S.-P.T.) concentration after successful completion of the first four years, and the D.P.T. degree after successful completion of the additional two post-baccalaureate years.

Also, students may enter the D.P.T. program as an undergraduate transfer student or as a post-baccalaureate student.

Physical therapists work with people across the lifespan to optimize movement and improve health. Physical therapists are responsible for the examination and evaluation of patients/clients, the development and implementation of intervention programs, patient education and the supervision of other health care practitioners. In addition to patient care, physical therapists may also serve as administrators, teachers, researchers and consultants.

Program Financial Fact Sheet

Graduates will be able to serve others by advocating for the health of society.
Graduates will be able to communicate in a way that optimizes patient-centered care.
Graduates will be able to apply principles of evidence-based practice in patient care.
Graduates will be able to evaluate typical versus atypical physical movement.

Requirements and Admission Criteria for PhD in Physical Therapy at Saint Louis University

Entry Requirements

Completed application
Undergraduate degree (most successful applicants have an undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or better)
Official transcript from a degree-granting institution
Statement of purpose (about 500 words)
Resume or curriculum vitae
External reference recommendations (encouraged but not required)

Upon admission, a new student must successfully complete a virtual meeting with their academic coach to be enrolled in first term coursework.

• Academic records, in English translation, of students who have undertaken postsecondary studies outside the United States must include the courses taken and/or lectures attended, practical laboratory work, the maximum and minimum grades attainable, the grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations, and any honors or degrees received. WES and ECE transcripts are accepted.

English Requirements

PTEMin 54
IELTSMin 6.5
TOEFLMin 80

Career Opportunities after Completing PhD in Physical Therapy

Graduates from SLU's PT program enjoy employment in a variety of settings, including hospitals, out-patient clinics, long-term rehabilitation facilities, collegiate and professional sports, schools, patient homes and fitness centers.

Physical therapists typically work in full-time positions and receive benefits. The 2020 median annual wage of physical therapists was $91,010 per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Specific salary depends on location and experience level.

Graduates of our Doctor of Physical Therapy program report a 100% employment rate within the profession within one year of graduation.

Tuition and Fee Information for PhD in Physical Therapy at Saint Louis University

Application Fee 65

How to Apply for PhD in Physical Therapy at Saint Louis University

Step 1: Accept or decline your admission

If you applied using SLU’s online graduate application, you can notify us about your decision to accept or decline your admission by logging in and clicking on “Manage Your Account.” From there, you can access the decision form.

If you’ve used a third-party, centralized application to apply — such as SOPHAS for public health programs or CASPA for physician administration programs — you’ll need to email us directly at [email protected] with your decision.

Step 2: Set up your SLU Net ID

Follow these step-by-step instructions to set up your SLU Net ID.

Step 3: Log into MySLU

Log into mySLU at auth.slu.edu. Use your SLU Net ID and SLU Net Password, then click "Login." Click on the "Tools" tab to find links to systems, such as Banner Self-Service and other SLU applications and systems.

When logging in for the first time, you will be directed to set up your multi-factor authentication. You will need to log in upon completing that process.

Step 4: Check with your academic department

Contact your department in order to receive enrollment directions, important dates and other information specific to your graduate program. You can also check the University calendar.

Step 5: Read the Saint Louis University Graduate Catalog

The Saint Louis University Graduate Catalog has useful information about life at SLU as a graduate student, including campus resources, academic policies and program curricula.

Step 6: Submit your immunization and health insurance forms

If you decide to attend SLU, you will need to submit your immunization records and health history. You will also need to submit a health plan enrollment/waiver form.

Step 7: Visit parking and card services to obtain your SLU ID card

You’ll use your SLU ID card to access student services and campus buildings such as the library. Make sure to bring a photo ID, along with a copy of your class schedule.

Step 8: Finalize your financial aid

If you plan to take out student loans, make sure you’ve filled out your FAFSA for the current year. Contact student financial services with any questions. For questions about assistantships, contact your program.

PhD in Physical Therapy at Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University

United States of America, Saint Louis