The program begins in early summer (end of May) each year. The student will be enrolled full-time for the next 36 months or up to a total of 145 credit hours. Clinical experiences occur throughout the curriculum with the last being three 12 week full-time internships at the end. Graduation occurs in May. The curriculum is outlined in detail on the program’s website. The program emphasizes integrated service learning experiences throughout the curriculum.
Our Vision: The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Bellarmine University will be recognized for excellence in the preparation of physical therapists that are guided by professional core values for community engaged contemporary and future patient-centered practice.
The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program develops autonomous, patient-centered physical therapists, dedicated to service and life-long learning, with knowledge, skills, attitudes and behaviors that are commensurate with societal expectations for outstanding care. Program faculty mentor and teach diverse learners to practice, serve and lead with integrity, sensitivity and commitment to excellence. This is accomplished by integrating Catholic liberal arts and professional education traditions with scientific inquiry, clinical expertise, and adherence to professional core values. – January 2002
Program Philosophy:
The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program is an integral part of the Lansing School of Nursing and Health Sciences and Bellarmine University, the physical therapist professional community, and the local health care delivery system. We embrace our heritage of Catholic higher education excellence in undergraduate liberal arts and quality professional education programs. The program is dedicated to excellence in physical therapist education and service by providing comprehensive academic and clinical experiences for diverse and talented students. This is accomplished through
- active faculty mentoring;
- instruction grounded in clinical, scientific and educational evidence;
learning experiences that are reflective, practical, directed, collaborative and innovative; and
- directed and focused engagement with the community.
We are responsive to the needs and demands of contemporary physical therapy practice, which are evolving and dynamic. Our goal is to develop autonomous patient-centered practitioners of physical therapy, dedicated to service and life-long learning, with skills, attitudes and behaviors commensurate with societal expectations for outstanding care.
