Message from the Chair

Physical therapy is a dynamic, exciting profession that allows you to aid patients in the rehabilitation process, thus helping them to perform at their highest functional capacity. Physical therapists have profound effects on the quality of life for the people they assist. They have developed into a prominent group of health care professionals who provide a positive influence in the volatile climate of the current health care delivery system. This vocation has grown dramatically over the past several years and is emerging as one of the latest doctoring fields.

A majority of states in the U.S. recognize physical therapists as autonomous practitioners who have direct access to provide patient care. Since they are now a point of entry for patients into the health care delivery system, more students are choosing to enter the field.

Azusa Pacific University’s Department of Physical Therapy has assembled the best faculty, staff, and resources available to prepare you for the doctorate level of physical therapy. Our commitment to providing a practical balance between didactic and clinical-based education, incorporating evidenced-based critical-thinking and decision-making, is unmatched. The department is soundly committed to the basic science and clinical research that edifies the dynamic role of physical therapy. Students in the program explore the value and integration of meaningful study with firsthand experience in performing and critiquing significant research projects. The conviction of the university, faculty, and staff to provide a Christian environment and worldview enables our graduates to approach the profession in a holistic way and to address not only the physical parameters, but also the psychological and spiritual well being of the client. Our programs are designed to provide students with the skills and tools needed to meet the current professional demands and keep pace with the ever-expanding roles of physical therapy.

I thank you for your interest in joining the physical therapy community and for your time in reviewing the program. We are happy to provide further information or encouragement. Please call us or visit our department with any questions.

Sincerely,

Susan Shore, PT, PhD
Chair and Professor, Department of Physical Therapy

Note: This information is current for the 2024-25 academic year; however, all stated academic information is subject to change. Refer to the current Academic Catalog for more information.