The Transition DPT Program is a post-professional program designed for physical therapists who already have a BS or MS in physical therapy.  The program uses a “hybrid” delivery format, meaning that courses are available on-line, with on-campus sessions scheduled midway through each semester. The two, five-month semesters per year distributes the coursework in a way that does NOT interrupt work and family life.

As a regionally accredited university, NSU does not give academic credit for continuing education classes or work experience.  The number of courses students must take depends on their entering degree. Applicants with a BS degree must take 14 classes (48 credits), while applicants with a MS/MA degree must take 8 classes (30 credits). Applicants with a PhD or NSU MPT degree must take 6 classes (24 credits). 

Students select the number and order of classes based on their individual needs, ranging from part time (3-7 credits/semester) to full-time (8-12 credits/semester).  On average, students with a MS degree take 2 years to complete the program, while those with a BS degree take 3 years. Up to 6 years is allowed for completion of the coursework.

Students and faculty interact regularly through the electronic classroom, as well as face-to-face during the on-campus sessions.  Faculty employ creative educational techniques to actively engage students in the learning process. Students are expected to apply assignments to their work environment so that learning becomes relevant to PT practice.

Transition Doctor of Physical Therapy (T-DPT) Program Student Learning Outcomes

At the completion of the T-DPT program, graduates will:

• Be competent practitioners as doctors of physical therapy in an autonomous manner and provide services to patients/clients who have impairments, functional limitations, disabilities, or changes in physical function and health status resulting from disease, injury, congenital, or other causes
• Interact and practice in collaboration with a variety of professional
• Promote health, wellness, and fitness in the provision of primary, secondary, and tertiary preventive services
• Consult, educate, administrate, and engage in critical inquiry
• Direct and supervise PT service, including support personnel
• Practice autonomously in environments that promote direct access for consumers of PT services
• Integrate the five elements of patient/client management: examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, plan of care, and interventions to maximize patient outcomes
• Function as lifelong learners by engaging in reflective practice, critical inquiry, evidence-based practice, continuing education, and self-directed learning activities
• Assume leadership roles within the profession of PT through active participation, membership, research, teaching, and collaboration

Inquiries should be directed to: Mary T. Blackinton PT, EdD at 954-262-1278 or 800-356-0026 extension 21278.