DPT FAQS

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does it Take to Complete the DPT?

33 months

What are the Admission Requirements?

You can find admission requirements on the Application and Admission page.

What Does the Academic Calendar Look Like?

Beginning in August, each cohort moves through 8 terms of classroom and clinical education. You can find more details on the DPT Courses and Calendar page.

How Many Credits Will I Take?

116 (88 classroom, 28 clinical)

Can I Transfer Into This Program?

Not at this time.

How Many Seats are Available?

30 students per cohort.

Does the DPT Program at Seton Hill Require GRE Scores?

No.

Where Do I Send Letters of Reference?

Letters of reference are should be uploaded along with your other application materials through the PTCAS system.

How Soon Will I Hear About My Admission Status?

Admission to the Physical Therapy Program occurs on a rolling basis. Notification of acceptance will begin in the late fall. Applications may be submitted beginning in July. The program has an application deadline of November 1, but applications will be accepted until the class that begins the following fall is full.

When Will I Know if I Get an Interview?

We carefully review all applications, so it may be several weeks after you submit all of your materials before you hear from us. Interviews generally begin in mid to late fall and continue until the following fall’s class is full. If you have not heard anything after submitting your completed application, it is still being considered. Please feel free to contact us at any time if you are concerned about the status of your application.

If I Am on a Waitlist, When Will I Hear if a Seat Has Opened?

Waitlist decisions are made on a rolling basis. If an accepted applicant notifies the department that she/he will not be attending, a student on the waitlist will be offered the seat. If you are on the waitlist you will be contacted by August 1 at the latest.

How is the Anatomy Content Taught?

Anatomy at Seton Hill is taught using a combination of instructional methods to support deep understanding and clinical relevance. Students learn through faculty-led sessions that incorporate anatomic models, computer-assisted 3D resources, and cadaver-based instruction. Cadaver experiences are integrated both as part of the formal curriculum and through optional open lab sessions available throughout the year. Anatomy is a thread that runs through every semester, supporting students' ability to apply anatomical knowledge in clinical contexts across the program.

Is there a Minimum GPA Required to Stay in the Program?

A minimum GPA of 3.0 must be maintained every semester after entering the professional phase of the program. If the semester GPA falls below 3.0, the student is placed on academic probation. Failure to obtain a 3.0 GPA in any subsequent semester will result in dismissal from the program. Consistent with our mission, extenuating circumstances are considered in cases of academic dismissal. Each student has a professional advisor from the physical therapy faculty for support and guidance. Academic, technological, writing, math, tutoring and health and wellness support is also available for all Seton Hill students.

How Much Time Will I Spend in Clinical Education?

You can find details on the DPT Courses and Calendar page.

How Will I Be Placed in Clinical Settings?

You will be placed at sites according to your learning needs, professional goals, geographical preferences, site availability and program needs. Clinical education faculty are dedicated to assuring that each student has a comprehensive, learning-focused clinical education experience.

What Shadowing/Volunteer/Employment Experiences are Required for Admission?

To ensure that applicants to the program understand the nature of physical therapy, prospective students are required to have participated in at least 80 hours of shadowing, volunteering, or employment under the direct supervision of a licensed physical therapist. You can find details on the Application and Admission page.

Is a Background Check or Drug Screening Required?

Yes. A background check and a drug screen are required to fulfill requirements of our clinical education partners, and to identify any potential issues that could prevent graduates from obtaining state licensure as a physical therapist.

Can I Review the Physical Therapy Program Handbook?

Absolutely. Links to the handbooks are below.

Physical Therapy Program Student Handbook (PDF)

Physical Therapy Program Clinical Education Handbook (PDF)

How Much Does the Program Cost?

You can find details on the Application and Admission page.

Want to Learn More?

For more information on the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program , fill out the online Request for Information Form. You may also contact the DPT Program directly at dptprogram@setonhill.edu or 724-552-4450. Ready to apply? Apply online now!