General Program Description
The program is a 33-month DPT program. All classes begin in late August of the year of admission. Courses are taught primarily in a traditional format with emphasis on integrated case studies, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Students have the option of completing a research/special project, opting for additional electives in specialty area(s) or engaging in an alternative plan of study as approved by the faculty.
Clinical Experiences
Part-time clinical experiences are integrated into the first academic year. A seven-week, full-time clinical experience occurs in the summer between the first and second academic year. A five-week, full-time experience occurs during the second academic year as well as an eight-week full-time affiliation in the second summer. The final semester includes a 15-week custom clinical affiliation. Students complete 35 weeks of full-time clinical internships.
Faculty
There are ten full-time and more than twelve part-time faculty members. Of the full-time faculty, 70% hold PhD degrees, 10% are certified as clinical specialists, and 40% are engaged in clinical practice. The faculty-to-student ratio is 1:10.
Enrollment
More than 15,000 students study at The University of Montana each year. The physical therapy program accepts 34 students each year. Both residents and non-resident applicants are considered.
Admission
Prerequisites for admission to the physical therapy program include a one-year sequence of anatomy and physiology courses; one course in statistics; a one-year sequence of chemistry including lab; a one-year sequence of physics with lab; 2 social science courses offered by Psychology, Educational Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, Cultural Geography and Anthropology departments. CPR certification is required. A baccalaureate degree is also required for admission. The average prerequisite grade point average (GPA) of students admitted to the program is 3.6. Applications for fall acceptance must be received by October 15 the previous year.
Outcomes
Over the past three years, 97% of admitted students graduate from the program, 100% of graduates passed the licensure exam, and 100% of graduates are employed as licensed physical therapists.
Tuition, fees and financial aid
For the 2011-12 academic year, including the summer session, full-time tuition and fees are approximately $14,057 for in-state residents and $32,454 for out-of-state residents. Institutional funding is awarded on the basis of academic merit, financial need, and other considerations. Federal and state funding is also awarded. Scholarship and awards are available for enrolled students.
Student life
On-campus residence halls house 28% of the student body. Off campus housing is also available for graduate students. Registered cars are allowed with permits. The campus, which covers 200 acres, is located in Missoula, Montana. With a population greater than 50,000. Missoula is located in scenic western Montana, a recognized center for outdoor sports and recreation including skiing, hiking, fly-fishing, biking, kayaking, and many other activities. The campus is served by a mass transit bus system and is 12 miles from the airport. Intercollegiate athletics include basketball, football, tennis, and track for men, and basketball, golf, soccer, tennis, track, and volleyball for women.