DPT Program FAQs


Application Requirements

What degree do I need to have in order to enroll in the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program?

All applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. Although any undergraduate major is acceptable, for students in the initial stages of undergraduate preparation, a major in Kinesiology or the biological sciences tends to be the most direct route into a physical therapy program.

What is the minimum grade point average (GPA) required for admission?

We look at the following GPAs as a part of our admissions process: Overall Undergraduate, Last 60 Semester / 90 Quarter Units, Prerequisite GPAs, and Science GPA. We recommend a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Are repeated courses included in the GPA calculation?

Yes. Information regarding GPA calculation can be found on the PTCAS website in the GPA section or in the FAQs section.

Am I required to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)?

No, the GRE is no longer required for our program, though applicants may still include their scores if they would like. Submit to PTCAS program code #7591 U CA San Francisco Phys Therapy no later than the application deadline. Scores sent to any other code will not be included in the application.

What is the acceptance rate for the program?

The acceptance rate is around 10%.

What is the graduation rate? Ultimate pass rate on the national licensure exam? Employment rate?

100% Average DPT Graduation Rate for Classes of 2022 and 2023
95% Average Ultimate Pass Rate on the National Licensure Exam for Classes of 2022 and 2023
100% Average 12-Month Employment Rate for Classes of 2021 and 2022

When does the program begin?

The program begins in early June.

How is the DPT degree different from the PhD in Rehabilitation Science?

The DPT program is designed to matriculate clinicians in the practice of physical therapy, with a combination of didactic and clinical skills-based coursework and clinical experiences spaced throughout the three years of the program. The curriculum is designed to prepare collaborative and expert clinicians who will advance the quality of health care through a currency in the relevant literature and a commitment to evidence based practice.

The PhD in Rehabilitation Science is a research-based degree program that leverages the vast expertise at UCSF in the basic and clinical sciences. The program educates new investigators on the latest advancements in musculoskeletal biomechanics and neuroscience, and prepares them for careers in research in academia and industry.

How long is the program?

The DPT is a 3-year program (36 months full-time, including summers).

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Does the program offer scholarships?

Yes. There are a limited number of competitive, merit-based scholarships as well as need-based awards for students throughout the 3-year program. Current students are considered for these awards, and there is no need to submit a formal application.

Am I eligible for financial aid?

All enrolled students are eligible to be considered for need-based financial aid through UCSF. For more information, see the UCSF Financial Aid website.