U.S. universities and colleges don't offer specific degrees for pediatric physical therapy. However, a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree can prepare aspiring physical therapists to work with patients of all ages.
Top 10 Schools with Physical Therapy Programs
According to U.S. News & World Report, these are the top ten rankings for physical therapy schools, as of 2019:
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degree Offered | Tuition (2018-2019)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Delaware | Newark, DE | 4-year, Public | Doctoral | $32,886 |
| University of Pittsburgh | Pittsbugh, PA | 4-year, Public | Doctoral | $22,846 in-state, $38,736 out-of-state |
| University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | 4-year, Private | Doctoral | $44,712 |
| Washington University in St. Louis | Saint Louis, MO | 4-year, Private | Doctoral | $52,400 |
| Emory University | Atlanta, GA | 4-year, Private | Doctoral | $41,800 |
| Northwestern University | Evanston, IL | 4-year, Private | Doctoral | $48,624 |
| University of Iowa | 4-year, Public | Iowa City, IA | Doctoral | $9,785 in-state, $28,726 out-of-state |
| MGH Institute of Health Profession | Boston, MA | 4-year, Private | Doctoral | $52,668 |
| U.S. Army-Baylor University | Fort Sam Houston, TX | 4-year, Public | Doctoral | $0** |
| Duke University | Durham, NC | 4-year, Private | Doctoral | $53,540 |
Source: *National Center for Education Statistics, **School website
School Selection Criteria
Here are some considerations for prospective students who are selecting a school in this field:
- It is best to select a college or university accredited by the CAPTE, since this is usually required for state licensure.
- Students may want to look for schools that have volunteer programs or internships so that they can gain real world experience before they graduate.
- If possible, students should try to find a school that offers a subspecialty or elective coursework in pediatrics.
- Students may want to find out if a school offers exam preparation courses and programs for the National Physical Therapy exam.
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Overview
This doctoral program combines the study of the human body with the study of social science. It is a full-time, 3-year program that includes didactic courses, as well as clinical education in the form of internships at the local, national and even international levels. Typically the amount of time required to earn the degree is 35-40 months.
While enrolled in a doctoral program, aspiring pediatric physical therapists should take as many pediatrics courses as they can. These classes may be offered by the physical therapy program or by different departments, depending on the school. When students are receiving their clinical education, they should select a clinical internship in the pediatric field.
DPT programs prepare aspiring physical therapists for state licensure through lecture-based coursework and practical training experiences. Those who want to focus their careers on pediatrics may be able to find classes and internships in the field.
