Physical Therapy at Saint Francis University
The Saint Francis University physical therapy faculty educates competent, ethical, caring doctors of physical therapy who practice autonomously, at an entry level, in a complex healthcare environment, and who demonstrate critical thinking, cultural competence, and an evidence-based approach. Program highlights include:
Saint Francis University graduates have excelled on the National Physical Therapist Examination. Our first-time pass rate (3 year average) is 96.08%. This performance indicator is well above the state and national averages. More info.
Small class size for a more personal learning environment.
Experienced faculty who have expertise in areas such as geriatrics, neurology, exercise physiology, orthopedics, and cardiopulmonary.
While many PT programs have gone to electronic means of learning anatomy, Saint Francis has a much more hands-on approach with actual human cadaver dissection by students working in teams of four-to-five individuals.
Strong professional community support that enhances the professional contacts students can utiliz
e for their personal development.
Laboratory and research space in two different campus locations that is designated for the physical therapy program. Students have the opportunity to practice on state-of-the-art equipment including a motion analysis system and an underwater weighing system.
Students admitted to the physical therapy major as freshmen are guaranteed admission to the professional curriculum, provided they meet the program’s progression standards.
Students earn a Bachelor of Science in Health Science degree after four years and a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree after six years.
Special Topics courses provide advanced study in diverse areas of physical therapy such as Aquatic Rehabilitation, Industrial and Sports Physical Therapy, Orthopedics, Pediatrics, Dissection in Neuroanatomy and Pathological Gait.
When asked why they chose Saint Francis University over other programs, our students replied...
"I enjoy the close-knit community of Saint Francis and the small-town-like atmosphere."
Christopher Sipes '01
New Enterprise, PA
"I live in this area and the location allowed me to live at home and commute to school."
Brett Sanders '01
Altoona, PA
"The atmosphere here is open and positive, it reminded me of home."
Greg James '01
New Kensington, PA
"The program, dedicated staff, and opportunity for constant growth made this program stand out from others."
Beth Thompson '01
Alexandria, PA
"I liked the fact that you did not need to reapply to the graduate program but instead maintain a particular QPA."
Nicholas Panaro '03
Duncansville, PA
"The small class size was very appealing because it suggested opportunity for the individual attention I was accustomed to in high school."
Adina Knor '02
Herminie, PA
"Saint Francis offers a unique opportunity...the school is small enough to allow personal attention, and the school's Christian values are exemplified by the caring attitude of the faculty."
Jerry Rush '02
Prospect, PA