Wednesday, December 4, 2024
UNTHSC’s new Doctor of Physical Therapy program combines online and in-person learning
The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth is expanding its Doctor of Physical Therapy program by adding a hybrid pathway starting in July.
The new program format, recently approved by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education, combines online and in-person learning, offering students greater flexibility while maintaining the program’s rigorous standards.
UNTHSC’s DPT program, housed in the College of Health Professions, has been offered since 2013 in a traditional face-to-face format on the Fort Worth campus. The hybrid pathway will enroll an initial cohort of 30 students and include both online coursework and immersive on-campus sessions. UNTHSC leadership has expressed interest in bringing elements of the newly approved program to other UNT System campuses.
Dr. Charles Taylor, UNTHSC College of Health Professions
“This initiative underscores our commitment to creating innovative pathways to health care education that align with the demands of today’s learners,” said Dr. Charles Taylor, UNTHSC executive vice president and provost. “By offering a flexible format that combines online and in-person learning, we are meeting the needs of students who require a more adaptable approach to pursuing their professional goals.”
Students will engage in six weeks of online synchronous and asynchronous coursework, followed by seven to 10 days of on-campus training for hands-on and practical skills at either UNTHSC or another UNT System campus. The curriculum will mirror the residential program, ensuring consistent quality and preparation for physical therapy careers.
“This approval marks a significant and historic milestone for the UNTHSC DPT program,” said Dr. Michael Furtado, associate professor and chair of UNTHSC’s Department of Physical Therapy.
Dr. Michael Furtado, UNTHSC College of Health Professions
“We’re combining the evidence-based approaches to online learning with the personalized engagement of on-campus immersions to create an exceptional student experience. By offering two pathway options, the DPT at UNTHSC is now more accessible for a diverse group of learners and aims to graduate Doctors of Physical Therapy who will meet the critical needs of the health care workforce in the state of Texas and beyond.
“We are deeply grateful to all the dedicated leaders, faculty, staff and UNTHSC community for their support and commitment to bringing this new pathway to life.”
The hybrid pathway will address the growing need for physical therapists in Texas, where the profession is expected to see 28% growth by 2030. Physical therapists in the state earn an average annual salary of $99,040, according to labor data.
UNTHSC will become the second Texas state school to offer a hybrid DPT program. The hybrid format accommodates students who need the convenience of online learning while maintaining essential in-person training for practical skills.
Dr. Glenn Forister, UNTHSC College of Health Professions
“The approval of UNTHSC’s hybrid Doctor of Physical Therapy pathway represents our institution’s continuing commitment to innovation,” said Dr. Glenn Forister, dean of the College of Health Professions. “Students in this pathway will benefit from the same rigor and excellence our DPT program is known for while enjoying the flexibility of a hybrid learning format.”
UNTHSC’s hybrid DPT program is designed to prepare graduates for evidence-based, compassionate care and leadership roles in the field. It is part of the university’s broader mission to expand access to high-quality health care education and meet the evolving needs of students and the workforce. The DPT hybrid program features an equally renowned faculty and intensive three-year curriculum as the in-person option. Students in the hybrid pathway will be fully immersed in the UNTHSC experience and UNT System family, and will be ready to excel as evidence-based, compassionate physical therapists and leaders in the physical therapy profession upon graduation.
For more information about the Doctor of Physical Therapy program, visit unthsc.edu/dpt.
From UNTHSC Newsroom - Community by Eric Griffey