The American Liberty University Department of Physical Therapy offers a course of study leading to the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree. The doctoral program is research oriented and is designed to provide the theoretical and scientific knowledge necessary for scholarly pursuit in physical therapy. Students are required to show competence in an appropriate cognate area relevant to their major area of study by completing theory and research courses in Physical Therapy and related disciplines.

The primary aim of the Ph.D. program is to develop scholars who, through the conduct of original research and the generation of theory, build the knowledge base for professional Physical Therapy practice. This research focuses on the relationship between the patient and the environment and on interventions into that relationship to bring about health outcomes. The program emphasizes specific areas in which Physical Therapy can expect to make significant contributions and develop a center of excellence. 

Dissertation

Each doctoral candidate is required to complete a dissertation that embodies original and independent research and demonstrates advanced scholarly achievement. As soon as possible after a student's admission to candidacy, and during or before enrollment in Dissertation Course, the student forms a dissertation committee.

The dissertation committee consists of a minimum of three members. Two shall be chosen from the faculty of the Department of Physical Therapy; the third may be a member of the faculty of another Department within the American Liberty University, or an appropriate doctorally prepared person outside the University. The Chairperson and committee are chosen by the student, approved by his/her advisor, and then formally appointed by the Dean or Director of Department of Physical Therapy.

The candidate in a public oral examination shall defend the dissertation. Official approval of the dissertation committee is required; committee members certify their acceptance by signing the title page of the dissertation. Three signed copies of the dissertation, one original and two clear copies should be filed in the Department of Physical Therapy.

The submitted dissertation becomes the property of American Liberty University, but the University does not limit the author's right to publish the results. 

Admission Requirements/Application Procedure

Priority to the Ph.D. program is given to graduates of accredited master's degree programs in Physical Therapy. Individuals admitted with a bachelor's degree in Physical Therapy are required to complete a program of master's courses in Physical Therapy at American Liberty University as a requisite to entry into doctoral courses. Applicants must provide evidence of the following:

1. A master's degree in Physical Therapy (or equivalent).
2. Three letters of reference affirming the applicant's potential for scholarly, investigative, and creative endeavors in Physical Therapy.
3. A statement of educational objectives, specific focus of research, and program and career goals.
4. Graduation Requirements
5. Complete a minimum of 84 semester hours of prescribed Graduate-level nursing courses.
6. Completion of course requirements
7. A dissertation that must be relevant to the student’s field of study.
8. Maintain a cumulative 3.0 GPA

Credit for Clinical Courses

Candidates for Ph.D. Degree in Physical Therapy may earn up to 30-unit credits for their past clinical experience. Credits may also be received for time involved with clinical research. Such credit awards relate to candidates who obtain their license in Physical Therapy.

In order for credit to be acknowledged, candidates must provide documentation, which confirms applicable experience in reputable medical centers, research centers, colleges or universities along with their Application for Admissions.

Course Schedule

Core Course:

Course #: Course Name Units

PT 832 Advanced Management of the Patient with Musculoskeletal

PT 836 Advanced Management of Cardiopulmonary Dysfunction 4

PT 838 Advanced Management of Spinal Disorders 4

PT 840 Advanced Health Care Management 3

PT 850 Advanced Business Law 3

PT890 Clinical Experiences & Research I 10

PT891 Clinical Experiences & Research II 10

PT892 Clinical Experiences & Research III 10

PT 890 Dissertation I 6

PT 890 Dissertation II 9

Elective 6

Total 84

Graduate Level ELECTIVE Courses:

PT 855 Foot Trauma and Disability 4

PT 860 Hand Trauma and Disability 4

Credit for Clinical Courses

Candidates for Ph.D. Degree in Physical Therapy may earn up to 30-unit credits for their past clinical experience. Credits may also be received for time involved with clinical research. Such credit awards relate to candidates who obtain their license in Physical Therapy.

In order for credit to be acknowledged, candidates must provide documentation, which confirms applicable experience in reputable medical centers, research centers, colleges or universities along with their Application for Admissions.

Course Schedule

Core Course:

Course #: Course Name Units

PT 832 Advanced Management of the Patient with Musculoskeletal

PT 836 Advanced Management of Cardiopulmonary Dysfunction 4

PT 838 Advanced Management of Spinal Disorders 4

PT 840 Advanced Health Care Management 3

PT 850 Advanced Business Law 3

PT890 Clinical Experiences & Research I 10

PT891 Clinical Experiences & Research II 10

PT892 Clinical Experiences & Research III 10

PT 890 Dissertation I 6

PT 890 Dissertation II 9

Elective 6

Total 84

Graduate Level ELECTIVE Courses:

PT 855 Foot Trauma and Disability 4

PT 860 Hand Trauma and Disability 4