Admission
Pacific's doctor of physical therapy (DPT) program prepares lifelong learners who are skilled, reflective, autonomous practitioners. The program is committed to educating individuals who will be leaders within the profession advocating for optimal health, wellness and performance for all members of society.
We accomplish this through a concise program of study emphasizing evidence-based reasoning and creative skills grounded in the basic and clinical sciences. Pacific faculty are teacher-scholars whose areas of expertise encompass all major practice areas and who are committed to your success. Our academic program is enhanced by a wide variety of innovative clinical experiences and active involvement in professional societies.
Successful completion of an accredited program qualifies the graduate to take the licensing examination. Admission to the program is highly competitive and limited to 36 openings each year.
Applicants to Pacific's DPT program are strongly encouraged to attend an information session. Experience the campus and learn more about our DPT program. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions about our program and admissions process. Go to Events for upcoming information sessions. For more information, contact PTAdmissions@pacific.edu or 209.946.2886.
Special Notes for the 2020-2021 Admissions Cycle (for Fall 2021 start date)
Requirement for Face to Face Courses
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Physical Therapy formally has made exceptions for the 2020-2021 admissions cycle only. Face to face courses are still preferred. Yet, we recognize that face to face courses are hard/impossible to find while social distancing policies are in effect. We will accept prerequisite courses that migrated to remote instruction (i.e., science courses with online/hybrid labs), which are taken from a regionally accredited institution for a grade.
Required Clinical Observation Hours
Although we recognize that clinic operations have been altered by public health orders during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have not yet made a determination about the clinical hours requirement for this admissions cycle. You are still able to submit your application without the clinical observation hours completed, and it would be a condition of admission to follow the relevant policy regarding their completion. We will continue to monitor the situation and keep you informed of the requirements.
Admission Requirements
□ | PTCAS Application - Opens July 1, 2020 | |
□ | $50 Application Fee | |
□ | Three (3) Letters of Recommendation - Completed through PTCAS | |
□ | GRE General Test - Sent to PTCAS; University of the Pacific, DPT Program, PTCAS GRE Code = 0211 | |
□ | Official transcripts should be sent directly to PTCAS. Official transcripts need only be sent to University of the Pacific if admitted. | |
□ | International Applicants ONLY: TOEFL Exam or IELTS Exam |
Important Note About Applying Please plan ahead! We recommend you submit your application no later than October 15. After submitting your application, please make sure to respond promptly to any information requests by PTCAS as they process your application. |
Informational Links
- International Applicants
- Estimate Cost of Attendance Information
- Financial Aid Information
- Physical Therapy Homepage
- Physical Therapy Prospective Student Brochure
For more information, please contact Graduate Studies.