Arcadia University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program remained in the top 10 percent of nationally ranked programs, according to U.S. News and World Report, ranking at 24th in the country and receiving top placement among Philadelphia area programs. The rankings are based on peer assessment surveys based on the academic quality of institutions accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.

Arcadia’s DPT program remains a leader in the field for its innovative, patient-centered curriculum. With the combined classroom and experiential learning offered throughout the program, DPT graduates surpass the national average for passing the licensure examination on the first attempt. Additionally, 100 percent of graduates have found employment. 

“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 at Arcadia University. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the occupational outlook for physical therapy to grow by 22 percent in the next eight years. 

Arcadia’s DPT students participate in global field study experiences in Guatemala, Jamaica, and England. In Guatemala, students see patients with limited access to health care at an outpatient clinic, assisting those with disabilities and neurological conditions, as well as assist at “pop-up” clinics on handling back and shoulder pain. In Jamaica, which is Arcadia’s longest-running physical therapy global field study, students assist at a clinic run by an Arcadia alumna, Brooke Riley ’04DPT. This intensive neurology service program focuses on helping patients with spinal injuries and stroke. In England, students work with persons with amputations to regain mobility and return to functionality.

“We have a profound responsibility to educate and impact tomorrow’s physical therapists to be innovators and leaders of the field,” said Dr. Rebecca L. Craik, dean of the College of Health Sciences at Arcadia. “This ranking is just one way that we can gauge our programs and ensure our students have the best opportunities to succeed.”

In total, 239 DPT programs were ranked nationally by U.S. News and World Report. DPT rankings were last released in 2016, when the University ranked 20th of 217 schools in the U.S., and first in the Philadelphia area.