PT students engage in classroom activities. At Concordia University Wisconsin, the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program prepares students to become highly skilled clinicians who are equipped to serve patients with compassion, expertise, and purpose.
That commitment to excellence is reflected in Concordia’s recognition as a 2026 Best Graduate School by U.S. News & World Report.
Through a rigorous academic experience, hands-on clinical training, and a Christ-centered approach to care, Concordia equips future physical therapists to make a meaningful impact in the lives of their patients and communities.
A focus on what matters most: outcomes and preparation
Physical therapy is a profession grounded in trust, expertise, and real-world application. Demand for physical therapists continues to grow nationwide, with job growth projected to increase 11% over the next decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. As a result, the need for well-prepared, patient-centered clinicians has never been greater.
An aging population, increased focus on mobility and quality of life, and advances in rehabilitation are all contributing to expanded opportunities across the field. Physical therapists play a critical role not only in recovery from injury, but in helping individuals maintain independence and long-term health.
The physical therapy profession continues to evolve with more clinical practice areas and increasing professional autonomy. For example, physical therapists are practicing in expanding practice areas such as oncology, women’s health, and telehealth. Furthermore, professional privileges such as ordering medical imaging improve patient access and enhance the position of physical therapists as primary providers in the health care system.
Concordia’s doctoral program emphasizes clinical readiness—developing practitioners who can evaluate, diagnose, and treat movement dysfunction across diverse patient populations. Students engage in a comprehensive curriculum that blends foundational sciences with applied clinical practice, preparing them for licensure and long-term success in the field.
“Our focus has always been on preparing students to be excellent clinicians—individuals who can think critically, adapt to complex situations, and provide high-quality care,” said Dr. Dale Gerke, chair of the Physical Therapy Program. “That’s what ultimately defines the strength of a program.”
Hands-on learning in a collaborative environment
Experiential learning is central to Concordia’s DPT program. Students gain extensive hands-on experience through lab work, simulation, and multiple clinical education placements in a variety of healthcare settings.
Faculty bring deep clinical expertise into the classroom, creating a learning environment that is both academically rigorous and highly practical. Small class sizes and close faculty mentorship ensure that students are supported throughout their academic and professional journey.
Graduates leave the program well-prepared to meet the demands of the profession, with the skills and confidence needed to serve patients effectively and compassionately.
“Our Doctor of Physical Therapy program is designed to prepare students for meaningful, impactful careers in healthcare,” said Dr. Linda Samuel, dean of the School of Health Professions. “Our Christ-centered environment makes a difference by shaping graduates who not only excel clinically, but who approach each patient with compassion, integrity, and a true sense of calling.
Want in?
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at Concordia University Wisconsin combines strong academic preparation with extensive hands-on clinical experience to develop practice-ready clinicians. Grounded in a Christ-centered learning environment, the program equips graduates to deliver high-quality, compassionate care across a variety of healthcare settings.