Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

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Degree Offered: Doctor of Physical Therapy
Program Leadership:
Amber Fitzsimmons, PT, MS, DPTSc
Professor and Chair, UCSF

Jeannette Q. Lee, PT, PhD, CLT, CSCS
Board Certified in Oncologic Physical Therapy
Professor and Chair, SFSU

Theresa Jaramillo, PT, MS, DPT
Vice Chair of Academic Programs, UCSF
DPT Associate Program Director, UCSF

Admissions Inquiries:
Mike Tressel, Admissions and Recruitment Specialist

Program Description

The entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree is a three-year joint program between University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and San Francisco State University (SFSU). Physical therapy is a dynamic profession with an established theoretical and scientific base and widespread clinical applications in the restoration, maintenance, and promotion of optimal physical function. The UCSF/SFSU program runs for 36 continuous months beginning in June and includes 34 weeks of full-time clinical experiences. The program is designed to prepare scholarly clinicians, educators, collaborative clinical researchers, administrative managers and community leaders.

The curriculum of the DPT program is built on a strong theoretical foundation in basic, medical, and applied sciences. Critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills are developed within an integrated program that prepares students to work collaboratively with patients across the lifespan to improve health and wellness, address disability challenges, and optimize function.

Faculty

The UCSF/SFSU faculty includes leaders in the field, renowned researchers, and exemplary teachers. Many of the core faculty are currently practicing clinicians at a range of sites, including several UCSF Outpatient Faculty Practices, UCSF Health & Wellness Center, and UCSF Medical Center.

Find a program faculty list on the program website.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from the entry-level DPT program go on to work as physical therapy professionals who are committed to patient care, education, and the application of research to clinical practice.

Admission Requirements

We look beyond grades and coursework to the applicant as a whole person. We review extracurricular responsibilities, leadership positions, research, community service, work experience, intercollegiate sports, and other factors in holistic admissions. Additional information may be found on our Application & Admissions webpage.

Learning Outcomes

Our program, student, and graduate goals are organized under five sets of values that link back to the mission of the program and the universities and units. More information can be found in Program, Student, and Graduate Goals on our website. Learning outcomes for students are that they will:

  • Provide patient-centered care and participate in outreach and service to the community, striving to improve access, equity, and quality of treatment and education, with emphasis on communities of need
  • Develop their professionalism, clinical skills, and unique abilities
  • Develop an appreciation for and engage in research
  • Benefit from the diversity valued by the program and will experience an inclusive learning environment
  • Be advocates for the Physical Therapy Profession and leaders in their communities

Additional Information

The DPT program is offered by the UCSF Graduate Division, administered by the UCSF School of Medicine, and delivered by faculty members in the UCSF School of Medicine and at San Francisco State University. Visit the program website for more information.