Arcadia University’s nationally ranked Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program has expanded to offer a hybrid learning model for healthcare and medical professionals, Arcadia DPT Online. Beginning in fall 2020, the hybrid expansion will include both online (distance) learning and periodic on-campus instruction and have the same curriculum, objectives, and duration as the residential DPT program; it will also run parallel with the residential program. 

“Graduates of Arcadia’s nationally ranked health sciences programs are at the forefront of their respective fields and employed at and affiliated with leading healthcare organizations,” said Dr. Rebecca Craik, dean of the College of Health Sciences. “We are excited to expand the reach of our College of Health Sciences opportunities to students and health care professionals around the world in this new hybrid format.” 

Arcadia faculty will teach students through weekly live classes and interactive coursework on an online platform that works seamlessly on mobile devices. Students will also perform hundreds of hours of fieldwork during which they will receive hands-on training at clinical placement sites in their communities. 

At the April 28 Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education meeting, Arcadia DPT was approved for an expanded accreditation to include its hybrid learning model.

In March, U.S. News & World Report ranked Arcadia’s DPT program in the top 10 percent of nationally ranked programs and first among Philadelphia area programs. Arcadia DPT graduates surpass the national average for passing the licensure examination on their first attempt, and 100 percent of graduates have found employment.  

With the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimating the occupational outlook for physical therapy to grow by 22 percent in the next eight years, and with the coronavirus pandemic underlining the need for quality healthcare delivery, Arcadia’s DPT program is solidly positioned to continue graduating healthcare professionals ready to make a difference in their communities. 

“Physical Therapy is one of the few fields that will experience exponential growth in the years ahead, and it’s remarkable to think about the impact our graduates will have on the field,” said Dr. Jeff Rutenbeck, provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs. “We’re proud to increase the accessibility of one of Arcadia’s prized programs.”