NORTH MANCHESTER – Manchester University is now accepting applications for its new Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program in Fort Wayne.
Building on its success in the health sciences, including a strong undergraduate major in pre-physical therapy, Manchester plans to begin DPT courses in May 2023, according to a news release from Manchester University.
While most DPT programs require nine semesters, MU’s program is designed to be completed in eight semesters. In addition, Manchester students will pay lower fees when they go for clinical rotations. This saves tuition costs and its graduates will join the workforce sooner, stated the release.
As experts in movement, physical therapists evaluate and diagnose musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and neurological conditions and treat them using exercise, hands-on therapy and patient education. They assist people to live pain-free while restoring, maintaining and promoting optimal results.
Each Manchester physical therapy lab is furnished with the latest equipment for advanced physical therapy learning and practice. Classes will incorporate the latest virtual technologies, including augmented reality and virtual reality experiences for anatomy and physiology through HoloLens and virtual dissection with the Anatomage, which allows examination of a 3D virtual cadaver.
The student-run orthopedic and neuromuscular pro-bono clinic will offer students hands-on clinical experience with patients. It will focus on the needs of those in rural and underserved communities.
Manchester has a commitment to integrity and respect for every individual. Its mission is to graduate people of ability and conviction who will lead principled, productive and compassionate lives that improve the human condition. In DPT, the outcome will be highly skilled and caring professionals, stated the release.
Students will also collaborate on and conduct faculty-supervised research projects, presenting and publishing the findings. They will become American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) members in their first year, which provides opportunities to participate in professional and scientific meetings.
To apply, go to www.apta.org/cas/ptcas, a centralized application service provided by APTA.
The Doctor of Physical Therapy is the entry-level degree required to earn professional licensure to practice as a physical therapist. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, physical therapy is one of the fastest growing professions nationally, with 21% job growth expected by 2030.
As part of its Charting the Future initiative, Lilly Endowment Inc. awarded a $1 million grant to Manchester to help launch the DPT program.
