Physical Therapy Programs--does it matter where you get your DPT?

Hi all,
I'm preparing to apply to DPT schools, but am unsure what I want to do with it yet- whether private clinics, hospitals, home care, or eventually to start my own clinic. Does it matter where you got your DPT degree in terms of school prestige? Does name recognition make a difference in hiring and in attracting clients of your own? How does this impact salary? Any thoughts or advice on this or on particular programs is much appreciated!

Thanks,
A Neophyte

Hi,
As a recruiter and PT I can tell you that it does not make a bit a difference where your degree comes from if you want to work in a clinical setting. I had the same dilemma when I went to school. Thankfully I went to CSULB and came out debt free. What employers look for is clinical experience and a license. The school does not make any difference as far as salary is concerned. I would strongly recommend attending the school which will result in the least amount of debt for you.

jborgers in Bend, Oregon said: Hi,
As a recruiter and PT I can tell you that it does not make a bit a difference where your degree comes from if you want to work in a clinical setting. I had the same dilemma when I went to school. Thankfully I went to CSULB and came out debt free. What employers look for is clinical experience and a license. The school does not make any difference as far as salary is concerned. I would strongly recommend attending the school which will result in the least amount of debt for you.

I think I agrees with jborgers, it may not make any difference if you are looking to work for some one...! Here in Michigan they only care if you have a PT license... and you have a job. Now on the other hand if you are think of starting your own practice.. I think the school you graduate from may make a difference depending on the location of your practice. t-DPT programs there are tons of them .. I think the best one would be from Boston university.. EXPENSIVE!! A.T.Still university is the one of the most inexpensive programs out there.
Hope it helps.
Khan, PT