Applications open Aug. 1 for second cohort of Doctor of Physical Therapy students

Auburn University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program, housed in the College of Education’s School of Kinesiology, is accepting applications Aug. 1 through Sept. 30 for its second cohort of students. The first cohort of 21 students began in July, but up to 38 applicants may be admitted for the next cohort.

Amanda Fields, chair of admissions and assistant clinical professor, said she and her fellow faculty members are looking for individuals who refuse to settle for “good enough.”

“We want the future physical therapists who will challenge the status quo and elevate patient care through curiosity, compassion, and clinical excellence,” she said. “We’re seeking leaders ready to innovate, advocate, and make a lasting impact on the communities they serve.”

The first cohort has set the bar high, she said.

“I have been very impressed with our first students,” she said. “They are engaged and eager to learn. The leadership team within the department was very intentional about identifying candidates who shared the vision of the physical therapy program and who demonstrated a desire to be change agents to improve the quality of physical therapy care being delivered.”

Fields said one element of Auburn’s program that makes it stand apart from others is that it is housed within the School of Kinesiology.

“Far too often, we read research and journal articles that show great information, but they are not practical for use in actual clinical settings. Auburn strategically positioned the DPT program to facilitate communication and collaboration between research and clinical practice so the partnership among these students and professionals will have a direct impact on improving patient outcomes in our community,” she said.

Another unique factor of the program, she said, is the faculty’s commitment to the mission of the program – “establishing a gold standard in the advancement of physical therapy and promoting the health of society.” 

“This is not a phrase that we take lightly, but one that we wholeheartedly lean into and purposefully work toward achieving,” she said. “Our aim is not just to teach students who will successfully pass their boards. Our faculty are committed to mentoring the next generation of physical therapists to be change agents who will improve the quality of life of the members of the community they serve.”

To learn more about Auburn’s DPT program and apply, go to https://aub.ie/DPT.