Best Physical Therapy Schools - USC ranked 1st

The field of physical therapy is integral to healthcare, as it helps individuals recover from injuries, illnesses, and surgeries, as well as manage chronic conditions. Physical therapy programs are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to help patients improve mobility, strength, and quality of life. According to the 2009 U.S. News & World Report rankings, several prestigious institutions in the United States stand out as leaders in physical therapy education. These programs not only equip students with a thorough understanding of physical therapy but also provide them with the clinical expertise necessary to excel in the healthcare field.

The University of Southern California (USC) is widely regarded as one of the best physical therapy schools in the country. The university's Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy, which is part of the USC School of Pharmacy, consistently ranks at the top of physical therapy programs. USC’s program is known for its comprehensive curriculum, strong research components, and diverse clinical training opportunities. Students at USC benefit from a combination of rigorous academic coursework and practical clinical experience, which prepares them to become skilled practitioners. The faculty at USC includes leaders in physical therapy research, and the program emphasizes evidence-based practice. With its connections to various hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers, USC provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a wide variety of settings. The university’s focus on interdisciplinary collaboration also fosters an environment of learning where students can work alongside other healthcare professionals, such as doctors and occupational therapists, enhancing their ability to provide holistic care.

Tied for second place, the University of Pittsburgh is another prestigious institution known for its excellent physical therapy program. The University of Pittsburgh School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program that is highly regarded for its academic rigor, state-of-the-art facilities, and emphasis on clinical practice. The program’s curriculum combines classroom instruction with supervised clinical experience, enabling students to develop a deep understanding of physical therapy principles while gaining practical skills. The school’s strong reputation is also due in part to its faculty, who are experts in areas such as musculoskeletal rehabilitation, neurology, pediatrics, and sports medicine. The University of Pittsburgh’s physical therapy program is unique in that it offers various specialty tracks that allow students to pursue specific areas of interest, including orthopedics and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. Furthermore, the school’s strong ties to local hospitals and rehabilitation centers ensure that students are exposed to a wide range of clinical settings, which broadens their understanding of the field and enhances their hands-on training.

Also tied for second place, Washington University in St. Louis has a long history of excellence in physical therapy education. The Program in Physical Therapy at Washington University’s School of Medicine is one of the oldest in the country and remains one of the most respected. The university’s program emphasizes a scientific approach to physical therapy, with a focus on developing clinical reasoning skills and the ability to integrate research into practice. Students are encouraged to critically analyze evidence and apply it to real-world situations. The program’s faculty is composed of leaders in the field, and students have the opportunity to collaborate with researchers working on cutting-edge projects in areas like neuroscience and biomechanics. Washington University’s program also places a strong emphasis on clinical education, and students complete extensive clinical internships across a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and rehabilitation centers. The program’s outstanding reputation is further bolstered by its affiliation with the Washington University School of Medicine, which provides students with access to world-class medical facilities and resources.

The University of Delaware, ranked fourth, is another top contender in the physical therapy field. The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at the University of Delaware is known for its interdisciplinary approach to healthcare, integrating the fields of physical therapy, medicine, and rehabilitation science. Students at the University of Delaware benefit from a strong foundation in clinical practice, which is complemented by a focus on research and evidence-based practice. The program is designed to produce well-rounded physical therapists who are equipped to address a wide range of patient needs, from musculoskeletal injuries to neurological disorders. The university’s research centers are also a significant strength of the program, with faculty and students engaged in groundbreaking research related to biomechanics, neuroscience, and rehabilitation science. Additionally, the program’s diverse clinical placements provide students with opportunities to work in various settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics, allowing them to gain valuable hands-on experience.

Tied for fifth place, the US Army-Baylor University program is unique in that it offers a specialized physical therapy education designed to serve the needs of the U.S. military. The Army-Baylor program is highly selective, offering a combination of academic coursework and clinical rotations in military healthcare settings. The program is designed to produce physical therapists who can work with soldiers, veterans, and military families, addressing injuries and conditions that are common in this population. The curriculum includes not only traditional physical therapy coursework but also specialized training in combat medicine, rehabilitation for military injuries, and the specific needs of military populations. Graduates of the Army-Baylor program often go on to serve as leaders in military healthcare or in civilian roles with a deep understanding of the unique challenges facing military personnel. The program’s affiliation with the U.S. Army and Baylor University provides students with access to both military and academic resources, making it an excellent choice for those interested in combining physical therapy education with a commitment to serving military members.

Also ranked fifth, the University of Iowa offers a highly regarded Doctor of Physical Therapy program that emphasizes clinical experience and research. The University of Iowa’s program is known for its commitment to developing evidence-based practitioners who are prepared to address the diverse needs of patients in a variety of settings. The curriculum is structured to provide students with a thorough understanding of human movement, anatomy, and physiology, with a strong emphasis on hands-on clinical training. The program’s faculty includes experts in musculoskeletal disorders, neurology, and rehabilitation science, and students have the opportunity to engage in research projects in these areas. The University of Iowa’s physical therapy program also benefits from its close ties to the university’s medical center, providing students with access to cutting-edge clinical facilities and opportunities for collaborative learning with other healthcare professionals.

Ranked seventh, Arcadia University offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy program that is known for its strong clinical training and personalized approach to education. The program emphasizes the development of clinical reasoning skills, patient communication, and hands-on experience. Arcadia University’s program stands out for its small class sizes, which allow for individualized attention and close interaction between students and faculty. Students benefit from a strong clinical network, with opportunities for internships in a wide variety of settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. The program also places a strong emphasis on leadership development, preparing students to take on leadership roles in physical therapy practice and education.

Also ranked seventh, the MGH Institute of Health Professions offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy program that is designed to produce highly skilled clinicians who are prepared to meet the challenges of the evolving healthcare landscape. The program combines rigorous coursework with extensive clinical education, ensuring that students gain a deep understanding of physical therapy principles while also developing the practical skills needed to provide high-quality patient care. The MGH Institute is affiliated with the Massachusetts General Hospital, one of the leading hospitals in the country, which provides students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and diverse clinical experiences. The program’s emphasis on research and evidence-based practice ensures that graduates are well-equipped to contribute to the advancement of the field.

Northwestern University, also ranked seventh, offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy program that is known for its strong academic curriculum and clinical training. The program emphasizes the development of clinical decision-making skills and the ability to integrate research into practice. Students have access to a wide range of clinical experiences, from outpatient clinics to hospitals, where they can develop hands-on skills in diagnosing and treating patients. Northwestern’s physical therapy program also places a strong emphasis on leadership and professional development, preparing students to take on roles in clinical practice, research, and education.

The University of Miami, ranked seventh, offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy program that is known for its commitment to producing well-rounded, compassionate clinicians. The program’s curriculum includes a strong focus on musculoskeletal and neurological disorders, and students benefit from hands-on experience in diverse clinical settings. The University of Miami’s program emphasizes the importance of patient-centered care, communication, and cultural competence, ensuring that graduates are equipped to meet the needs of diverse patient populations. The university’s location in a diverse urban setting provides students with the opportunity to work with a wide range of patients and healthcare professionals, further enriching their clinical education.

In conclusion, the U.S. News & World Report 2009 rankings of the best physical therapy schools highlight institutions that are leaders in providing high-quality education and training for future physical therapists. The schools ranked at the top of the list, such as the University of Southern California, the University of Pittsburgh, and Washington University in St. Louis, are known for their comprehensive programs that integrate academic instruction with extensive clinical experience. These institutions provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a dynamic and evolving field, ensuring that graduates are prepared to meet the challenges of modern healthcare. Whether through innovative research, strong clinical networks, or specialized training for specific populations, these schools offer exceptional opportunities for students pursuing a career in physical therapy.

Ranking of Best Physical Therapy Schools (Top 40 list):
1. University of Southern California
2. University of Pittsburgh
2. Washington University in St. Louis
4. University of Delaware
5. US Army-Baylor University
5. University of Iowa
7. Arcadia University
7. MGH Institute of Health Professions
7. Northwestern University
7. University of Miami
11. Emory University
11. University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill
13. Duke University
13. University of California–San Francisco/San Francisco State University
15. New York University
15. University of Florida
15. University of Illinois–Chicago
15. University of Maryland–Baltimore
19. Creighton University
19. Marquette University
19. Ohio State University
19. University of Minnesota–Twin Cities
19. University of Utah
24. Boston University
24. Texas Woman’s University
24. Univ of Kansas Medical Center
24. Univ of Texas Medical Branch–Galveston
24. Virginia Commonwealth Univ
29. Northern Arizona Univ
29. Regis Univ
29. Univ of Alabama–Birmingham
29. Univ of Washington
33. Columbia Univ
33. Mayo School of Health Related Sciences
33. Univ of Colorado–Denver
33. Univ of Nebraska Medical Center
33. Univ of Wisconsin–Madison
38. Univ of Kentucky
38. Univ of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
38. Univ of Wisconsin–La Crosse

Source: U.S. News & World Report (2009)