BGSU Doctor of Physical Therapy program achieves initial accreditation status

Accreditation milestone further ensures students will hone the necessary knowledge and skills needed to successfully earn licensure and practice as clinicians

As Ohio's first and only hybrid program, the innovative, two-year Bowling Green State University Doctor of Physical Therapy program has achieved initial accreditation status from the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), further ensuring students are empowered with a quality education that prepares them to meet workforce needs.

Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, CAPTE grants accreditation for qualified entry-level physical therapy programs in the United States and allows graduates to sit for the National Physical Therapy Licensure Exam. Through the accreditation, BGSU DPT students will hone the necessary knowledge and skills needed to successfully earn licensure and practice as clinicians.

Securing candidate for accreditation status in 2022, the BGSU program was initially evaluated by CAPTE officials through a site visit. Following that assessment, the University was granted full candidacy status and admitted its first cohort of students in Fall 2022. The program then submitted a self-study that was followed by a final site visit in Spring 2024. The BGSU DPT program previously received approvals from the Ohio Department of Higher Education and the Higher Learning Commission.

"Achieving this accreditation milestone further validates the quality and rigor of our innovative Doctor of Physical Therapy program," said Dr. Stephanie Thurmond, BGSU DPT program director and professor. "Current and prospective students and graduates should feel confident knowing that their program meets the high educational standards required of practicing physical therapists today. This accreditation is an important step in ensuring BGSU Doctor of Physical Therapy graduates are well-prepared to lead meaningful and productive careers that meet societal needs."

Offered in an accelerated, hybrid format, the BGSU DPT program places graduates in the workforce sooner and promotes inclusion and belonging in the expanding profession, which is projected to grow by 14% within the decade, much faster than the average for all occupations.

As part of the distinctive BGSU School of Physical and Occupational Therapy program, students complete most of their coursework online and come to campus only twice per semester for hands-on clinical lab sessions guided by the University's world-class and industry experienced faculty.

The unique format of the BGSU DPT program allows students to remain close to home while earning their degree and encourages graduates to practice in communities of all sizes and demographics, meeting a need for quality health care providers nationwide. The BGSU College of Health and Human Services program also expands access to physical therapy education with its holistic admissions approach that does not require GRE scores or interviews.

In August, the BGSU DPT program celebrated the graduation of its first cohort where a majority of graduates reported they had already accepted jobs or were beginning residency programs in various specialties.

The BGSU DPT program is currently accepting applications for its next cohort through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service, with classes beginning in August 2025. Applications are due by March 3, 2025.