Exploring the PhD in Physical Therapy at the University of Michigan-Flint

If you’re a licensed physical therapist or prospective PT student aiming to elevate your career through academia or research, the University of Michigan-Flint offers a distinctive Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Physical Therapy program tailored to your aspirations.

The PhD program at UM-Flint is a three-year, on-campus program designed for clinicians holding a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) or a master’s degree in physical therapy. It emphasizes academic leadership, teaching, and research, preparing graduates for roles as faculty members and researchers in higher education.

Curriculum Highlights

The program comprises 45 to 55 credit hours, focusing on:

• Higher education and teaching methodologies
  
• Research design and methodology
  
• Movement analysis and instrumentation
  

For those interested in combining clinical practice with academic pursuits, the Dual DPT/PhD pathway allows students to earn both degrees concurrently, reducing time and cost by double-counting credits .

Career Prospects

Graduates are well-equipped for academic roles, contributing to the growing demand for physical therapy educators. The program’s rigorous training and research opportunities position alumni for success in academia and research institutions .

For more information or to apply, visit the UM-Flint PhD in Physical Therapy program page.