Physical Therapy

College of Health and Human Services

Program Description

The primary mission of the California State University, Sacramento Doctor of Physical Therapy program is to graduate knowledgeable, effective, adaptable, and reflective physical therapist generalist practitioners and health care leaders. Graduates demonstrate ethical, responsible, professional behavior, are sensitive to cultural and psychosocial differences, use evidence derived from the scientific and professional literature to inform independent judgments to meet patient needs and to advance the profession. They utilize critical and integrative thinking and problem-solving, practice lifelong learning, and provide services that contribute to the optimal health and function of community residents.

Physical Therapy at Sacramento State is one of several professional curricula in the College of Health and Human Services. The program complements others in the College and provides opportunities for scholarship, instructional collaboration, and interaction.

The doctoral curriculum of 3 years, including summers, encompasses didactic instruction, laboratory experience, and clinical education. The clinical component is thirty-six weeks of full-time, off-campus clinical experiences.

Degree Program

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Accreditation

In addition to California State University, Sacramento's full accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the Doctor of Physical Therapy is also individually accredited by Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

Notice to Students RE: Professional Licensure and Certification

California State University programs for professions that require licensure or certification are intended to prepare the student for California licensure and certification requirements. Admission into programs for professions that require licensure and certification does not guarantee that students will obtain a license or certificate. Licensure and certification requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the California State University and licensure and certification requirements can change at any time.

The California State University has not determined whether its programs meet other states’ educational or professional requirements for licensure and certification. Students planning to pursue licensure or certification in other states are responsible for determining whether, if they complete a California State University program, they will meet their state’s requirements for licensure or certification. This disclosure is made pursuant to 34 CFR §668.43(a)(5)(v)(C).

Special Features

  • Following successful completion of both the clinical and regular academic program, students are awarded a Doctor of Physical Therapy and will be eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Licensure Examination.
  • The Doctor of Physical Therapy degree program at Sacramento State is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education/APTA. The Commission can be contacted for questions at:
    1111 North Fairfax Street
    Alexandria, VA 22314-1488
    (703) 684-2782

Notes:

  • Admission is for fall semester only.
  • Classes are offered primarily during daytime hours, and full-time study is required.

Career Possibilities

Hospitals · Ambulatory Care Centers · Private Practice · Sports Medicine Centers · Rehabilitation Centers · Industries · Extended Care Facilities · Home Health Care · Schools · University Teaching and Research · Consulting

Contact Information

D. Michael McKeough, PT, Ed.D., Director
Mable Boban, Administrative Coordinator
Folsom Hall 1054
(916) 278-6426
Department of Physical Therapy Website

Faculty

COLEMAN-SALGADO, BRYAN

ESCAMILLA, RALPH

GARCIA, WILLIAM

GREEN, ERIN

LAZARO, ROLANDO

MacLEOD, TORAN

MATTERN-BAXTER, KATRIN

McKEOUGH, D. MICHAEL

MOORE, BRIAN

THOMPSON, IRWIN SCOTT