Entry-Level Dual-Degree Bachelor of Science to Doctor of Physical Therapy

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Health Science Studies program for physical therapy, students will demonstrate the following competencies:

1. Foundational Science Knowledge: Demonstrate a knowledge of foundational sciences.
2. Interprofessional Health Care: Identify the roles of various health care professionals.

Goal: Students will demonstrate diverse and innovative thinking.

1. Creative Thinking: Define and devise imaginative and original solutions to various challenges.
2. Diversity: Identify the role and impact diversity plays in health.

Admission to the Program

Candidates applying for admission to the Physical Therapy program from high school are required to have no less than three years of high school college preparatory mathematics (four years are preferred), one year of biology, one year of chemistry and one year of physics. In addition, the scores of the Scholastic Assessment Test or the College Entrance Examination board of the American College Testing program are important considerations. Related health care experience is highly desirable. Prospective candidates also must satisfy general Quinnipiac University admission requirements.

All applications must include two letters of reference, and a personal interview may be required with representatives of the admissions office to discuss program requirements and the applicant’s professional interests and commitments. Applicants must have observation hours in at least two different clinical settings, preferably one in a rehabilitation facility and one in an acute care setting. A minimum of 10 hours in at least two settings (20 hours total) is required.

Applicants should forward to the Office of Admissions a signed note from the physical therapist at each setting verifying observation hours. Applications are accepted for admission to the fall semester only. All applications are processed and screened by the vice president and dean for admissions for selection to the program. Reference letters, other correspondence and inquiries relating to an application should be directed to the dean of undergraduate admissions. Admission to Quinnipiac does not guarantee admission to the professional graduate DPT program in physical therapy, unless officially accepted into the program as a first-year student.

AP Credits and Course Substitutions

A student who scores a 4 on the AP exam for biology will takeBIO 101-BIO 102 at Quinnipiac University and have alternative credits awarded.

A student who scores a 4 on the AP exam for calculus may choose to be awarded credit for MA 141. If AP credits are awarded and accepted for CHE 110-CHE 111, the student will discuss other sciences to be considered as replacements. 

A student who receives a 4 on the AP exam for biostatistics may choose to be awarded credit for MA 275. No other AP credits in the math and science categories will be accepted for program substitution without permission. AP credits for other non-math and science core curriculum requirements will be accepted.

Preprofessional Bachelor’s Degree Program Requirements

The Department of Physical Therapy Graduate Admissions Committee is responsible for evaluating and ensuring that all early-assurance candidates meet the requirements of the preprofessional component of the program. 

To be eligible for the professional graduate DPT program, students must achieve a minimum overall GPA of 3.2 during the preprofessional component of the program. In addition, a 3.2 cumulative GPA in preprofessional program science and math coursework is required for admission to the professional graduate DPT component of the program. (D and F grades in the required preprofessional science and math courses are unacceptable.) Initial placement in the English and mathematics courses is determined by examination and an evaluation of high school units presented. The minimum mathematics requirement is MA 141. All students are required to complete a minor or concentration in a subject area of their choice. The following courses in the preprofessional component must be successfully completed with a C- or better and are calculated into the GPA for science and math coursework.

Preprofessional Undergraduate Courses Calculated into 3.2 Math/Science Requirement

Professional DPT Program Requirements

Please see the DPT Requirements tab for criteria and requirements necessary for continuation in the graduate program.

Undergraduate Direct-Entry

• Entry-Level Dual-Degree BS in Health Science Studies/Doctor of Physical Therapy (3+3)
• Entry-Level Dual-Degree BS in Health Science Studies/Doctor of Physical Therapy (4+3)
• Entry-Level Dual-Degree BS in Athletic Training/Doctor of Physical Therapy (4+3)