Department of Physical Therapy
School of Health Sciences and Practice Building
New York Medical College
Valhalla, NY 10595
Michael J. Majsak, EdD, PT
The Department of Physical Therapy offers a professional doctorate degree in physical therapy (DPT) completed over 3 years of full-time study, including summers. A DPT/MPH (master of public health) dual degree option is available for students who take additional public health coursework while in the DPT program, completing the remaining MPH requirements in a fourth year of study. The DPT program is designed to prepare competent and caring physical therapists to practice in a variety of settings, adapt to changes in the healthcare system, and be capable of critical thinking and autonomous practice.
The didactic coursework emphasizes a strong foundation in the basic sciences and the application of these sciences to evidence-based clinical practice. A major feature of the program is a problem-based learning format for clinical application courses. In this format, learning is promoted through small tutorial groups, lectures, and structured laboratory experiences that include working with patients. The problem-based learning approach provides an opportunity for students to fully participate in their learning, to integrate basic and clinical science with clinical skills, and to develop skills in the critical analysis of patient problems. In addition to didactic coursework, students have a total of 36 weeks of full-time clinical experiences in four different settings, developing and refining their clinical skills under the direct supervision of practicing physical therapists.
Another major feature of the program is the requirement for all students to complete a group doctoral project. Students select a project offered by faculty in an area of clinical research, teaching, or public health service. Close mentoring of students results in project outcomes and a manuscript that is acceptable for publication or presentation at a professional meeting.
The department admits full-time students only. Classes begin in June each year.
The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at New York Medical College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 1111 North Fairfax Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: email@example.com; website: http://www.capteonline.org
Page updated: November 25, 2013