Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) Accreditation
The Augustana University Doctor of Physical Therapy-Colorado (DPT-CO) Program is seeking accreditation from Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) and plans to submit its Application for Candidacy May 1, 2026. Achievement of Candidate for Accreditation status is required prior to implementation of the professional phase of the program; therefore, no students may be enrolled in professional courses until Candidate for Accreditation status has been achieved. Further, though achievement of Candidate for Accreditation status signified the satisfactory progress toward accreditation, it does not assure that the program will be granted accreditation.
Augustana DPT-CO, which is currently being developed at Augustana at the Colorado lab-based location, is slated to graduate its first class in December 2028. The scheduling of licensing examination falls under the jurisdiction of the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). For students expected to graduate in December 2028, the earliest they will be able to take the exam is in January 2029. Eligibility for the exam will be determined by the state in which they intend to obtain their license to practice physical therapy. Regardless of the outcome of initial accreditation, graduates from the inaugural cohort will be eligible to take the licensure exam after successfully completing the program.
Preparation for Professional Licensure
CAPTE accreditation of a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant program satisfies state educational requirements in all states, District of Colombia (D.C.), Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Thus, students graduating from CAPTE-accredited physical therapist and physical therapist assistant education programs are eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Examination and apply for licensure in all states, the District of Columbia (D.C.), Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. For more information regarding state qualifications and licensure requirements, refer to the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy at fsbpt.org.
A summary of professional licensure requirements by state can be found on the Augustana University Licensure & Disclosure webpage.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Admission Statement
The Augustana DPT-CO Program utilizes a holistic application review process. Augustana admits students without regard to sex, race, age, color, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion or national or ethnic origin to all programs and activities generally afforded to or made available to students at the university. Persons with bachelor’s degrees from accredited institutions, who meet the prerequisites, technical standards, and essential functions established by the Augustana DPT-CO Program and demonstrate promising scholastic standing, along with professional potential, will be considered for admission.
National Council of State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA)
Augustana is a member of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA). SARA is an agreement among member states, districts, and territories establishing national standards for the interstate offering of postsecondary distance education.
Complaints to the Accrediting Body
Any individual who would like to file a complaint with CAPTE regarding what appears to be the Augustana DPT Program’s inability to meet an evaluative criterion may do so by following the directions provided on the CAPTE website (capteonline.org/complaints) or may call the Department of Accreditation of APTA at 703.706.3245.
Complaints Outside of Due Process
Any individual may file a complaint regarding aspects of the Augustana University DPT-CO Program. Complaints that fall outside due process should be referred to the Augustana DPT-CO program director without fear of retaliation. Contact Program Director AU DPT-CO Dr. Shelene Thomas. The AU DPT-CO program director will determine the appropriate course of resolution with consultation from the directors within the AU DPT-CO Program. In instances where there is an apparent or perceived conflict of interest, individuals may recuse themselves from the proceedings. In instances where the program director is the source of concern or complaint, issues should be referred to Dean of the AU School of Health Professions Dr. Matt Volansky.
File a Report
Students, faculty and staff who need to report an incident or have concerns and feedback about Augustana services and staff can find links to getting those addressed on the How to Make a Report webpage. Using these forms, Augustana can respond to complaints, track and address reports effectively and efficiently.
Protection Against Retaliation
Augustana prohibits any retaliation against any person making a report or against any person cooperating in the investigation of an incident, including witnesses. Retaliation includes intimidation, threats or harassment. Acts of alleged retaliation should be reported immediately and will be promptly investigated. Augustana is prepared to take appropriate steps to protect individuals who fear that they may be subjected to retaliation.