Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our list of Physical Therapist Programs in Wilmington.
Want to become a physical therapist in Delaware?
This guide covers the top Physical Therapist Programs in Delaware, highlighting programs like Delaware Technical Community College and the University of Delaware.
Discover which program suits your career goals and offers the best training to excel in this rewarding field.
Delaware Technical Community College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Delaware Technical Community College offers a well-rounded Physical Therapist Assistant Program, catering to those aiming to enter the healthcare sector as skilled assistants. With a focus on clinical and ethical competence, this program provides a solid foundation for your career.
Program Features:
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), ensuring adherence to stringent educational standards.
- Curriculum: Courses cover comprehensive topics essential for physical therapy assisting, including anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and treatment of orthopedic and neurologic conditions.
- Clinical Practice: Practical experience is emphasized, with students undergoing extensive clinical practice to develop hands-on skills.
- Credits Required: The program requires completion of 76 credits, accommodating a balanced approach to theoretical and practical education.
- Campus Locations: The program is available at both the Georgetown and Wilmington campuses, providing geographic flexibility.
Graduates are well-prepared to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) and pursue licensure across the United States, including territories like Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Delaware Technical Community College’s comprehensive approach assures you gain effective communication skills, proper treatment plan modifications, and ethical practice in real-world settings.
Learn more about this program at Delaware Technical Community College.
University of Delaware – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
The University of Delaware offers an exceptional Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program, consistently recognized for its excellence. This program is designed to mold you into a proficient physical therapist, blending rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical training.
Key Features:
- Accreditation and Ranking: Accredited by CAPTE, the program boasts a No. 2 ranking by U.S. News & World Report, underscoring its prestige and quality.
- Program Duration: A full-time commitment of 2.5 years, encompassing fall and spring semesters along with summer and winter sessions.
- Clinical Experience: The program features on-campus Sports & Orthopedic and Neurologic & Older Adult clinics. These offer unparalleled hands-on training under the supervision of faculty and Board-Certified Clinical Specialists.
- Curriculum: Courses integrate research literature into patient care practices, fostering a commitment to lifelong learning. Students engage in a mixture of didactic education and clinical rotations.
- Licensing Preparation: Graduates are prepared to take the NPTE, with a high pass rate for the licensing exam and solid career prospects nationwide.
This program is ideal if you seek a robust professional education that emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise. The University of Delaware’s comprehensive facilities and experienced faculty ensure you are well-prepared for clinical practice.
Explore the University of Delaware’s DPT Program.
By thoroughly exploring these notable Physical Therapist Programs in Delaware, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your career aspirations and educational needs. Each program offers specific strengths and unique opportunities designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the physical therapy field.
University of Delaware – Delaware Physical Therapy Clinic Fellowship Program
Enhance your expertise and become a leader in manual physical therapy with the Delaware Physical Therapy Clinic Fellowship Program, offered by the University of Delaware. This part-time, two-year fellowship is perfect for clinicians who have completed an accredited residency or hold a board-certified clinical specialist certification.
Program Overview:
- Manual Physical Therapy Focus: Gain in-depth knowledge and skills in manual physical therapy, emphasizing evidence-based practices and advanced techniques.
- Clinical Mentoring: Benefit from one-on-one mentorship at the Delaware Sports and Orthopedic Clinic, ensuring personalized, practical experience.
- Scholarly Engagement: Participate in scholarly activities such as presentations and publications, contributing to the advancement of the physical therapy profession.
- Lectures and Labs: Attend comprehensive classroom sessions combining lectures and hands-on laboratory work, designed to deepen your theoretical understanding and practical abilities.
The fellowship program costs $10,000, and applicants must have a degree from a CAPTE-accredited program, be U.S. licensed, and have an interest in orthopedic manual physical therapy. Completing the program qualifies you to apply for the title of Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists (AAOMPT), enhancing your professional standing and career opportunities.
For more details and to apply, visit the Delaware Physical Therapy Clinic Fellowship Program.
Delaware Division of Professional Regulation – New Physical Therapist License Program
To practice as a physical therapist in Delaware, you must obtain licensure through the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation’s New Physical Therapist License Program. This program ensures rigorous standards for entry into the profession, safeguarding public health and promoting high-quality patient care.
Licensing Requirements:
- Background Checks: Applicants must complete both state and FBI criminal background checks to ensure a clean legal record.
- Licensure Verification: Provide verification of any professional licensure from other jurisdictions to confirm qualifications and adherence to ethical standards.
- Official Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from accredited physical therapy institutions to verify academic credentials.
- NPTE Registration: If required, register separately for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE), essential for licensure.
- Temporary License Option: A temporary license is available for candidates employed under the supervision of a Delaware-licensed Physical Therapist. This license is valid for three months and expires if the NPTE is not passed.
- Continuing Education: Guidelines for license reinstatement or reapplication include specific continuing education requirements to ensure ongoing professional development.
This structured path to licensure in Delaware is designed to uphold high standards and ensure that all practicing physical therapists meet stringent professional criteria.
How to Choose the Best Physical Therapist Program in Delaware
When selecting the ideal physical therapist program in Delaware, it’s crucial to consider several key factors. This guide helps you make an informed decision tailored to your career aspirations.
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by CAPTE. This guarantees that the education meets established standards necessary for professional practice.
- Program Length: Evaluate the duration of the program. Determine if the timeline aligns with your personal and professional commitments.
- Curriculum: Look for a well-rounded curriculum that covers both foundational and advanced topics. This includes anatomy, physiology, clinical sciences, and evidence-based practice.
- Clinical Placement Opportunities: Seek programs that offer diverse clinical placements. Real-world experience is pivotal to your professional development.
- Faculty Expertise: Investigate the qualifications and experience of the faculty. Engaged and knowledgeable instructors can significantly enhance your learning experience.
- Licensure Success Rates: Review the program’s success rates for the NPTE. High pass rates indicate strong preparation for licensure.
- Financial Considerations: Assess the tuition costs and availability of financial aid. Consider the potential return on investment in terms of career opportunities and salary expectations.
By carefully weighing these factors, you can choose a physical therapist program in Delaware that best aligns with your goals and ensures a successful career in physical therapy.
Physical Therapist Programs By State
Final Thoughts on Physical Therapist Programs in Delaware
Delaware offers exceptional physical therapist programs, each designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career. By evaluating program features, such as accreditation, curriculum, and clinical experience opportunities, you can select the program that aligns with your professional objectives. Take the next step toward your physical therapy career today by exploring these top programs and choosing the one that best fits your needs.