The Wheeling University Doctor of Physical Therapy program is a 2.5 year program that emphasizes a whole person approach to the investigation of clinical issues using a Problem-Based Learning format. The students are admitted to the program from a number of different undergraduate fields of study, professional backgrounds, and levels of maturity. Diversity and variety of life experiences are most valuable in this program. The Problem-Based Learning format encourages teamwork, open discussion, and researching appropriate resources to acquire the essential didactic knowledge. Due to a variety of class sizes, the students receive individual attention and meet with faculty advisors on a regular basis.

During the program, our students are exposed to a variety of opportunities through class, volunteer/service projects, service learning and clinical education experiences. With a diverse faculty in our department, students are able to learn about various practice settings and focus. To help with clinical exposure and experience, students have a variety of clinical experience locations to chose from during their education. Local vendors and practitioners visit to share their knowledge and expertise. Through the PT club and other local programs, students participate in a variety of projects in the local community.

Various levels of service learning experiences are integrated into our program. These experiences expose students to settings and people at the local, regional, and international level. 

Participation in research is a key component of the program, and our students are required to contribute to the body of knowledge. With increasing weight placed on evidence based practice, the profession requires evidence that therapeutic interventions have been proven to be relevant and appropriate to the patients. Students have the opportunity to work with faculty on research projects. With that, they are also given the opportunity to present their doctoral research projects at state, national and international levels and to publish the results in professional literature. Additionally, the research and evidence-based practice courses prepare students for public speaking.