Physical Therapist Programs in St. Paul MN

Not in St. Paul? Check out our lists of Physical Therapist Programs in Minneapolis, Rochester, and across Minnesota.

Looking for the best Physical Therapist Programs in St. Paul MN? We’ve got you covered.

This article highlights top programs that offer rigorous coursework, hands-on clinical training, and strong job placement rates. Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance your career, we’ve compiled crucial information to help you make an informed choice.

Read on to find the program that suits you best.

Concordia University, St. Paul – Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

The Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Concordia University, St. Paul, is an exceptional choice for anyone looking to advance in physical therapy. It is a 111-semester credit program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). This program delivers a thorough education through lectures, laboratory work, clinical activities, and discussions.

Key Highlights:

Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers broad areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, orthopedics, and neurology.
High Success Rate: The program boasts a 98.5% overall pass rate and a 100% employment rate.
Experienced Faculty: Renowned educators such as Dr. Peter J. Rundquist and Dr. Lyndsey Vandenberg.
Financial Information: Find detailed tuition and fee information through the university’s fact sheet.
Career Prospects: Graduates enjoy promising career outlooks, with home health care services salaries averaging $113,970 in 2022.

For more information about this impressive program, visit Concordia University, St. Paul – Doctor of Physical Therapy Program.

St. Catherine University – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program

St. Catherine University offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program that emphasizes a holistic and student-centered approach. Early hands-on experiences are a hallmark, starting in just the second week of the program. Students work in various clinical sites across the Twin Cities, gaining invaluable patient care experience.

Key Highlights:

Innovative Curriculum: Structured around practice settings such as outpatient orthopedics and neurological rehabilitation.
Extensive Clinical Experience: Includes four full-time clinical experiences totaling 40 weeks.
Small Class Sizes: With 34 students per cohort, fostering intimate learning environments.
Qualified Faculty: Instructors provide ethical and culturally competent education.
Location Benefits: Situated in a vibrant medical and urban setting with ample clinical and community resources.

Learn more about this forward-thinking program at St. Catherine University – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program.

St. Catherine University – Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program

St. Catherine University also offers a superior Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program. It balances theory with practical application, preparing students to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for licensure.

Key Highlights:

Accreditation: Accredited by the CAPTE.
Flexibility: Mostly online format allows completion in as little as 19 months.
Collaborative Learning: Operates alongside the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.
Hands-On Experience: Through a robust network of clinical partners in the Twin Cities and beyond.
Cost: Fees per credit for the 2024-2025 academic year are $750, with financial aid options available.

To further explore this flexible and comprehensive program, visit the St. Catherine University – Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program.

University of Minnesota – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program

The University of Minnesota’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program stands out for its dedication to quality education and clinical practice. The program, accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), aims to create competent, well-rounded professionals equipped to excel in various healthcare settings.

Key Highlights:

Research and Education: Emphases on integrating research with practical education.
High Acceptance Standards: The program has an acceptance rate between 34.8% to 55%, indicating selective admissions.
Outstanding Outcomes: A remarkable graduation rate of 100% over two years and a PT licensure exam pass rate of 99.2%.
Diversity Commitment: Recognized as an Asian American & Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPISI).
Financial Aid: Available scholarships and loan forgiveness options.
Experienced Faculty: Faculty prioritize high-quality clinical practice and consider students’ diverse needs.

Graduates from the University of Minnesota DPT program find employment in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practices.

For further details, visit the University of Minnesota – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program.

Concordia University, St. Paul – Pre-Physical Therapy Program

Concordia University, St. Paul offers a Pre-Physical Therapy program designed to prepare students for advanced study in Doctor of Physical Therapy programs. Students are encouraged to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Biology or Exercise Science as part of this preparatory pathway.

Key Highlights:

Strong Foundation: Core courses include General Physics, Introduction to Psychology, and statistics.
Additional Recommendations: Includes Medical Terminology, Biomechanics, and Exercise Physiology.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Flexible Pathway: Students can align the program with individual career goals.

Prospective students should reach out to the university for more specifics regarding costs, schedules, and program details.

For more information, visit Concordia University, St. Paul – Pre-Physical Therapy Program.

What to Consider When Choosing a Physical Therapist Program in St. Paul MN

Choosing the right physical therapist program in St. Paul, MN, is a significant step toward your future career. Here are several factors to keep in mind:

Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by CAPTE, confirming it meets educational standards.
Curriculum: Look for a well-rounded curriculum that balances theoretical learning with practical application.
Outcome Metrics: Examine graduation rates, licensure exam pass rates, and employment statistics of alumni.
Class Size: Smaller classes often provide more personalized attention and mentoring opportunities.
Clinical Experience: Seek programs offering hands-on training through clinical partnerships with local healthcare facilities.
Financial Aid: Consider tuition costs, scholarships, and loan forgiveness programs to help mitigate education expenses.
Diversity and Inclusion: Programs promoting a diverse and inclusive environment can enhance your learning experience.
Campus Resources: Investigate available resources such as libraries, labs, and community clinics.
Reviews and Testimonials: Speaking with current students or alumni can offer valuable insights about the program’s strengths and weaknesses.

These factors can help you make an informed decision about the best physical therapist program for your needs.

Conclusion

Choosing the right physical therapist program is crucial for building a successful career. With several outstanding options available in St. Paul, MN, you have the opportunity to pursue a program that aligns with your career goals, offers rigorous training, and prepares you for a promising future.

By considering the factors outlined and exploring each program’s unique offerings, you’ll be well-equipped to make the best choice for your education and professional development.

Visit each program’s page for more details:

Take the next step in your journey to becoming a skilled and compassionate physical therapist by exploring these leading programs in St. Paul, MN.