DPT Prerequisite Information

The Augustana University Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program does not require a specific undergraduate major of study. Undergraduate coursework in specific areas that provide a foundation for graduate study in physical therapy is required with other courses strongly recommended.

Prerequisite Course List

Prerequisite Information

Prior knowledge in foundational areas that are crucial for success in the DPT program include: Anatomy, Physiology, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, Statistics and Exercise Science
Strong writing skills are also essential for success as a student and in the profession.
The strongest applicants will have taken all the required prerequisite courses, and several of the recommended courses prior to entering the program.
Preference points for admission will be awarded to applicants who have completed highly recommended courses with a grade of B or higher.
Anatomy and Physiology must have been completed within 10 years of matriculation into the DPT program, OR applicants must provide evidence of relevant and ongoing work experiences in the topic area that have kept their knowledge current.
Applicants are strongly recommended to take refresher courses as needed to ensure they are well-prepared for the accelerated nature of the DPT program.

Prerequisite Course Requirements

Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale for prerequisite coursework.
Grades below a C- in prerequisite courses will not be accepted. For prerequisite courses that are repeated, the prerequisite GPA will be determined using the highest grade recorded on the transcript. All grades listed on the transcript (including for repeated courses) will be calculated into the cumulative GPA.
Courses with a ‘fail’ grade on a pass/fail system will not be considered to fulfill the prerequisite course requirement.
Courses that meet multiple criteria may be considered for multiple topic areas (e.g.; Exercise Physiology may be considered both an additional Physiology course as well as Exercise Science)
AP courses taken in high school that are accepted by the student’s undergraduate program to fulfill degree requirements will count towards pre-requisite requirements so long as they appear on the undergraduate transcript.

Recommended Courses

While not required for application or admission, students who have taken these additional recommended courses will hold an advantage and be better prepared to succeed in a rigorous, accelerated DPT program through having a stronger foundation in these content areas.

Applicants who have completed recommended courses with a grade of B or higher will be awarded preference points on their application. (Note: Recommended courses may also count towards required prerequisite courses where appropriate and preference points will be applied for grade of B or above).

Exercise Physiology
Biomechanics
Motor Control & Motor Learning
Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry
Genetics
Computer and Data Science
Communications/Public Speaking
Ethics, Medical Ethics, Bioethics
Nutrition
Health & Wellness, Community Health, Population Health
Developmental Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, Sports Psychology
Research Methods, Experimental Design

Transfer of Credit & Advanced Placement

All courses required for the DPT degree, both didactic and clinical, must be completed with the Augustana University DPT Program. Augustana's program does not grant advanced placement, credit for experiential learning, or transfer credits from another program or institution.