Physical Therapist Programs in Milwaukee WI

Are you searching for the best physical therapist programs in Milwaukee, WI? Look no further. This guide will help you navigate top-rated options, from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee to Marquette University.

Get a clear view of each program’s unique strengths and decide which one aligns with your career goals.

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee – Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

The Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) offers a rigorous, research-focused education designed for future leaders in physical therapy. Enrolling only 36 students annually, this CAPTE-accredited program ensures personalized instruction from experienced faculty.

Key features of UWM’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program include:

• Competency-Based Curriculum: Featuring 106 credits, it combines coursework and 30 weeks of full-time clinical experiences.
• Research Opportunities: Engage in faculty-mentored projects and hands-on community experiences.
• Orthopedic Specialization: A post-graduate orthopedic residency program in partnership with the Zablocki Veterans Affairs Hospital.

UWM emphasizes clinical reasoning and evidence-based practice. Admission is competitive and follows UWM Graduate School guidelines, with Early Priority and Rolling Admission phases. This program strives to create clinician-scholars who lead in diverse healthcare settings.

For more details, visit the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at UWM.

Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) – Physical Therapist Assistant Program

The Physical Therapist Assistant program at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) prepares students to become Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants. This 64-credit program emphasizes practical skills and professional conduct.

Highlights of the MATC Physical Therapist Assistant program include:

• Diverse Curriculum: Covering anatomy, therapeutic exercises, and rehabilitation techniques.
• Hands-On Training: Emphasis on practicing in a safe and ethical manner.
• High Success Rates: Boasts a 100% pass rate on the National PTA Exam and a 95% employment rate.

To join this CAPTE-accredited program, students must score at least 75% on the HP-A2 pre-qualifying exam and achieve a B- grade in prerequisite courses. Enrollment is through a petition selection process with petitions typically due in September.

For more information, check the MATC Physical Therapist Assistant program.

Marquette University – Physical Therapy Program

Marquette University’s Physical Therapy Program, ranked 13th by U.S. News & World Report, is an exceptional choice for those seeking in-depth training and research opportunities in physical therapy. Directed by Dr. Allison Hyngstrom, the program benefits from a highly qualified faculty involved in significant research.

Key attributes of Marquette’s Physical Therapy Program are:

• Research Excellence: Faculty secured a $3.2 million NIH grant and a $400,000 grant from the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation.
• Comprehensive Degree Options: Offers both a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) and a combined DPT/Ph.D. program.
• State-of-the-Art Clinics: Includes the Marquette Physical Therapy Clinic and Marquette Neuro Recovery Clinic.

With a focus on evidence-based practice, students are well-equipped to become knowledgeable, skilled physical therapists. Marquette emphasizes academic excellence and strong research engagement.

Learn more about Marquette’s Physical Therapy Program.

Concordia University Wisconsin – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at Concordia University Wisconsin is designed for students desiring to become competent generalist clinicians. Accredited by CAPTE, the program offers several pathways, including an accelerated option for freshmen and a hybrid bridge program for licensed physical therapist assistants (PTAs).

Key components of the Concordia DPT program include:

• Small Class Sizes: Ensuring individual attention and personalized instruction.
• Hybrid Learning Options: For PTAs to complete their DPT while working, combining online coursework and on-campus weekends.
• High Pass Rates: Graduates are well-prepared for the National Physical Therapy Licensing Exam.

The program’s emphasis on clinical decision-making and therapeutic exercises prepares students for diverse physical therapy settings.

Explore more about Concordia University Wisconsin’s DPT program.

VA Milwaukee – Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Residency Program

The 12-month VA Milwaukee Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Residency Program, in collaboration with UWM, develops advanced orthopedic clinicians. Accredited by the American Board of Physical Therapy Residency & Fellowship Education, it offers extensive clinical and mentorship experiences.

Important aspects of the VA Milwaukee Orthopaedic PT Residency include:

• Clinical Training: Involves 32 hours of weekly treatment in the VA Medical Center.
• Specialty Clinics: Engagement in a variety of clinical settings and specialty areas.
• Mentorship: Four hours of weekly mentorship with experienced clinicians.

Residents also receive a stipend, health insurance, paid leave, and access to online continuing education. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, graduates from CAPTE-accredited programs, and licensed physical therapists.

For details, visit the VA Milwaukee Orthopaedic PT Residency Program.

VA Milwaukee – Neurologic Physical Therapy Residency Program

The VA Milwaukee Neurologic Physical Therapy Residency Program, in partnership with Marquette University, prepares therapists for advanced neurologic practice. Accredited by the American Board of Physical Therapy Residency and Fellowship Education, it combines clinical experience with academic learning.

Core features of the VA Milwaukee Neurologic PT Residency are:

• Clinical Experience: Training in inpatient acute care, spinal cord injury, and outpatient neurologic clinics.
• Mentorship: With master clinicians and interdisciplinary specialists.
• High Exam Pass Rate: 100% pass rate on the APTA Neurologic Clinical Specialty examination.

This program includes a stipend, health insurance, and paid leave, with requirements including U.S. citizenship, CAPTE-accredited program graduation, and licensure.

Learn more about the VA Milwaukee Neurologic PT Residency Program.

VA Milwaukee – Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Residency Program

The 12-month VA Milwaukee Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Residency Program, in collaboration with UWM, offers an immersive training experience for those aiming to excel in orthopedic physical therapy. This residency is accredited by the American Board of Physical Therapy Residency & Fellowship Education and focuses on cultivating advanced skills through mentorship, clinical exposure, and academic enrichment.

Key Features

• Clinical Training: Residents spend 32 hours weekly treating veterans at the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center.
• Specialty Clinics: Exposure to a variety of settings, ensuring a comprehensive clinical experience.
• Mentorship: Four hours of weekly mentorship from experienced clinicians, guiding you through advanced practice techniques.
• Scholarly Activities: Early career research opportunities in orthopedic physical therapy, enhancing evidence-based practice skills.

Benefits

Residents benefit from a stipend, health insurance, paid leave, and access to continuing education resources like Medbridge. Requirements include U.S. citizenship, graduation from a CAPTE-accredited program, and obtaining a state license.

For more details, visit the VA Milwaukee Orthopaedic PT Residency Program.

VA Milwaukee – Neurologic Physical Therapy Residency Program

The VA Milwaukee Neurologic Physical Therapy Residency Program, in collaboration with Marquette University, prepares therapists for advanced practice in neurology. Accredited by the American Board of Physical Therapy Residency and Fellowship Education, it combines profound clinical experiences with engaging academic learning.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Clinical Experience: Focused training in inpatient acute care, spinal cord injury, and outpatient neurologic clinics.
• Intensive Mentorship: Weekly guidance from master clinicians who help navigate complex neurologic cases.
• High Exam Pass Rate: A 100% pass rate on the APTA Neurologic Clinical Specialty examination underscores the program’s quality.
• Interdisciplinary Activities: Participation in national conferences, journal clubs, and interdisciplinary team meetings.

Benefits

Residents receive a stipend, health insurance, and paid leave. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, graduates from CAPTE-accredited programs, and licensed physical therapists.

Learn more about the VA Milwaukee Neurologic PT Residency Program.

How to Choose the Best Physical Therapist Program in Milwaukee

Selecting the right physical therapist program in Milwaukee involves several key factors:

1. Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). This guarantees a standard of quality and rigor.
2. Curriculum: Review the curriculum to ensure it covers essential areas like anatomy, clinical decision-making, therapeutic exercises, and evidence-based practice.
3. Faculty Expertise: Consider the qualifications and expertise of the faculty, including their involvement in research and professional organizations. Experienced faculty can greatly enhance your learning.
4. Clinical Training: Look for programs offering extensive clinical training opportunities, including diverse placements in various healthcare settings.
5. Program Reputation: Check program rankings, graduate outcomes, and pass rates for licensure exams. Programs with high pass rates on licensure exams are often well-regarded.
6. Admission Requirements: Understand the prerequisites, GPA requirements, and selection process to ensure you meet the criteria and can prepare adequately.
7. Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate tuition costs and available financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and assistantships. Balancing cost with quality is essential.
8. Career Support: Research the support services available for career planning, internships, and job placements post-graduation. Strong career support can ease the transition into the workforce.
9. Location and Facilities: Consider the campus location, facilities, and resources available to students. A good learning environment can enhance your educational experience.
10. Alumni Network: A strong alumni network can provide valuable connections and support throughout your career.

By thoroughly evaluating these factors, you can select a program that aligns with your career goals and sets you up for success in physical therapy.

Concluding Thoughts on Physical Therapist Programs

Choosing the right physical therapist program in Milwaukee, WI, is crucial for your future career. With options like UWM, MATC, Marquette, Concordia, and VA Milwaukee’s residency programs, you are poised to find a program that fits your needs. Each program has its strengths and offers various pathways to becoming a skilled and knowledgeable physical therapist. Explore, evaluate, and choose the program that aligns with your professional goals. Good luck on your journey to becoming a physical therapist.