UTRGV Department of Physical Therapy

to develop the knowledge and skills to master the evaluation and treatment of people impacted by injury and disease across the spectrum of physical therapy practice to include those with musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiopulmonary and multisystem disorders. Under the guidance and mentorship of expert faculty, students will work individually and collectively to develop and hone their evaluative skills, clinical reasoning, critical thinking, and application of evidence-based practice to practice in a complex and dynamic healthcare system. Students will master clinical excellence through the development of original research projects, inter-professional collaboration, and multiple hands-on clinical experiences. Graduates will enter the workforce with the skills and knowledge to practice in clinical, research, and academic environments and rapidly become leaders in the profession as clinicians, scientists, and advocates. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) coursework is based on the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) Standards for an entry-level doctoral program. Physical Therapists work in many sectors, which is helpful for those who want the flexibility of a variety of career paths. Graduates of the DPT program prepare for a wide range of opportunities in hospitals, schools, home health, community agencies, and skilled nursing. DPT professionals with an entrepreneurial spirit can also strike out on their own as a practice owner or consultant.