Key Takeaways
- The Phoenix metro area offers several accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs from leading universities such as Creighton University, University of Arizona, and A.T. Still University.
- Most programs take about three years to complete and combine rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical training.
- Accreditation through CAPTE ensures eligibility for licensure and national board exams (NPTE).
- Students should compare tuition, admission requirements, clinical placements, and NPTE pass rates before applying.
Best Physical Therapy Programs in Phoenix
Phoenix, Arizona is home to some of the nation’s top Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs. With a rapidly growing healthcare industry and robust job market, aspiring physical therapists can gain both academic excellence and valuable clinical experiences across the Valley. Below is a guide to the top CAPTE-accredited DPT programs in the Phoenix metro area, along with details on curriculum, cost, and outcomes.
Top Accredited DPT Programs in Phoenix
1. Creighton University – Doctor of Physical Therapy (Phoenix Campus)
Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
Program Length: 3 years (8 semesters)
Overview: Creighton University’s Phoenix campus offers one of the most respected DPT programs in the U.S. With a Jesuit educational foundation, the program emphasizes excellence in clinical reasoning, evidence-based care, and reflective practice. Students benefit from state-of-the-art simulation labs and partnerships with major healthcare systems like Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital.
Tuition: Approximately $69,000 per year
Highlights: 100% job placement rate within six months of graduation, strong clinical affiliation network, and high NPTE pass rates.
Learn more about Creighton University DPT.
2. University of Arizona – Doctor of Physical Therapy (Phoenix Biomedical Campus)
Accreditation: CAPTE
Program Length: 3 years
Overview: The University of Arizona DPT program, located on the Phoenix Biomedical Campus, integrates innovative research with patient-centered care. Students gain access to interprofessional training alongside medical and physician assistant students. The program’s mission is to advance health equity and rural health through community partnerships.
Tuition: Around $36,000 per year (in-state)
Highlights: Focus on underserved healthcare populations, distinguished faculty researchers, and strong partnerships with Banner Health and Mayo Clinic Arizona.
Explore the University of Arizona DPT Program.
3. A.T. Still University – Doctor of Physical Therapy
Accreditation: CAPTE
Program Length: 3 years
Overview: As the founding institution of osteopathic medicine, A.T. Still University (ATSU) offers a holistic approach to physical therapy. Located in Mesa (just outside Phoenix), ATSU emphasizes compassionate care and professional leadership through its integrated clinical model and evidence-based curriculum.
Tuition: Approximately $14,000 per semester
Highlights: Extensive early clinical exposure, a Human Motion Lab for advanced research, and robust alumni placement across diverse PT specialties.
View details on ATSU’s DPT program.
4. Midwestern University – Doctor of Physical Therapy (Glendale Campus)
Accreditation: CAPTE
Program Length: 36 months
Overview: Midwestern University’s DPT program in Glendale integrates clinical experiences early in the first year, supported by faculty mentorship and modern simulation facilities. The program focuses on team-based healthcare education and professional ethics.
Tuition: Approximately $45,000 per year
Highlights: Excellent NPTE pass rates, interprofessional education environment, and over 700 clinical site affiliations across the U.S.
Check Midwestern University DPT.
Program Comparison Table
InstitutionProgram LengthAccreditationEstimated Tuition (Annual)Clinical Rotation SitesNPTE Pass RateCreighton University3 yearsCAPTE$69,000100+98%University of Arizona3 yearsCAPTE$36,000 (in-state)120+95%A.T. Still University3 yearsCAPTE$56,000Nationwide97%Midwestern University3 yearsCAPTE$45,000700+96%
Admissions Requirements and Prerequisites
Although each program has specific prerequisites, expect to complete a bachelor’s degree and prerequisites like anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, and physics. Most schools also require:
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- GRE scores (though some programs are test-optional)
- Clinical observation hours (ranging from 40 to 100+)
- Two to three recommendation letters
- Personal statement outlining your motivation to pursue PT
Pro Tip: Begin logging observation hours and relationship-building with licensed physical therapists early. Competitive programs value well-rounded candidates with clinical and community service experience.
Curriculum and Clinical Experience
All Phoenix DPT programs integrate classroom learning with hands-on practice. Topics typically include biomechanics, neuroscience, pharmacology, and therapeutic exercise. Students also participate in clinical internships across various healthcare settings, such as outpatient orthopedic clinics, inpatient rehabilitation, and acute care hospitals.
Typical timeline:
- Year 1: Foundational sciences, anatomy, kinesiology
- Year 2: Applied movement sciences, musculoskeletal and neuromuscular courses
- Year 3: Full-time clinical rotations, research projects, and capstone experiences
Licensing and Career Outcomes
Graduates must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and meet state-specific requirements through the Arizona State Board of Physical Therapy. Phoenix programs boast consistently high NPTE pass rates (95%+), a testament to their academic quality.
Career Outlook: Physical therapy is among the most rewarding healthcare careers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for physical therapists is projected to grow 15% by 2032, much faster than average. The median annual wage in Arizona currently stands near $100,000, depending on specialization and experience.
Tuition, Financial Aid, and Scholarships
While costs vary, most DPT programs in Phoenix range between $36,000 and $70,000 annually. Financial aid is widely available through federal loans, institutional scholarships, and service-based grants. Many universities also offer graduate assistant positions or tuition reimbursement through healthcare partnerships.
Scholarships to explore:
- Arizona Physical Therapy Association (AzPTA) Student Scholarship
- American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Minority Scholarship Award
- University or department-based scholarships for merit or service
Making the Right Choice
When selecting a physical therapy program in Phoenix, balance financial investment with long-term outcomes such as job placement and board pass rates. Evaluate the location, clinical opportunities, and learning culture to find the program aligning best with your professional goals. Visiting campuses or attending informational sessions can provide valuable firsthand insights.
Graduating from an accredited Phoenix DPT program positions you strongly in one of the nation’s most desirable healthcare markets, offering a fulfilling career serving patients across diverse communities.
Frequently Asked Questions about DPT Programs in Phoenix
How long does it take to complete a DPT program in Phoenix?
Most Phoenix DPT programs take about three years of full-time study. This usually includes classroom coursework plus several full-time clinical rotations in your final year.
What admission requirements do Phoenix DPT programs usually have?
You typically need a bachelor’s degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, prerequisite courses in sciences, clinical observation hours, recommendation letters, and a personal statement. Some schools also ask for GRE scores or make them optional.
Why is CAPTE accreditation important for DPT programs in Phoenix?
CAPTE accreditation is required for you to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and obtain a physical therapy license. Choosing a CAPTE-accredited program helps you meet Arizona and other state licensure standards.
How much does a DPT program in the Phoenix area cost?
Annual tuition in Phoenix-area DPT programs generally ranges from about $36,000 to $69,000. Total costs vary by school, residency status, and fees, so you should review each program’s most current tuition details.
What types of clinical experiences can you expect in Phoenix DPT programs?
You can expect a mix of early hands-on labs and later full-time clinical rotations. Settings often include outpatient orthopedic clinics, inpatient rehab units, acute care hospitals, and specialized centers across the Phoenix metro area and beyond.
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