Choosing an Online Physical Therapy Program

Online DPT Programs and Hybrid DPT Programs

When looking at online DPT programs, it is important to find a program that fits your professional needs. Many online options are for transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (TDPT) programs, which are designed for students who already have a background in physical therapy (many of them became PTs before a doctorate was required and complete a TDPT to increase their knowledge). For those not interested in being clinicians, there are also PhD options, which are academic degrees that confirm completion of scholarly work that adds to the knowledge within the discipline. Both TDPT and PhD in physical therapy programs are not accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). It only accredits professional, entry-level programs.

Those looking to start their physical therapy careers can always look for regular doctor of physical therapy programs (sometimes called clinical DPT programs). These programs prepare students for first-time certification as physical therapists.

Online/hybrid physical therapy program options for both aspiring PTs and current PTs looking to enhance their knowledge base are listed below.

Accredited Online and Hybrid Entry Level DPT Programs

Below is a table of online DPT programs accredited by Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). These programs are for students who do not have a prior PT degree. (Information last verified: June 2026)

Online Physical Therapy Program Information

This list of online physical therapy programs includes programs designed for current physical therapists, who are looking to gain additional education, as well as programs for aspiring PTs.

Online Doctor of Physical Therapy Application Requirements

Most programs require that applications are submitted through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS). Here are some common application requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree (unless the program combines bachelor’s and graduate education)
• Transcripts
• Observation hours supervised by licensed PT
• References (see specific reference requirements by school)
• Application fee
• Supplemental materials
• GRE scores
• Prerequisite coursework

Accreditation for Online Doctor of Physical Therapy Programs

In order to be licensed as a physical therapist in any state you must have a DPT from a CAPTE-accredited program or a foreign equivalent. Accreditation ensures that the quality of education provided by the university meets standards to prepare you to be a qualified physical therapist. Accreditation requirements also protect students: Schools cannot maintain accreditation if they do not generate good career outcomes for their students. CAPTE maintains a list of accredited programs.

CAPTE does not accredit programs for current DPTs expanding their knowledge through transitional DPT degrees or PhDs in PT.

Evaluating Online Physical Therapy Programs

Online physical therapy programs can differ greatly in terms of how courses are delivered, how many classes you can take at one time, clinical placement opportunities and more. When choosing between programs, some key considerations include:

Hybrid Physical Therapy Programs

All online physical therapy programs geared toward practicing PTs are categorized as hybrid programs. This means that while a large chunk of the degree can be completed online, there will always be some on-campus requirements so that students can learn the important hands-on and clinical skills needed to practice as physical therapists. You can compare different programs to see how often they require you to be on campus–some requirements may be more manageable than others. A couple of campus visits per semester is fewer than several visits per month. Know what commitments will work for your schedule.

Live vs. Non-Live DPT Classes

Just because you are completing classwork in your living room doesn’t mean you have to forgo an interactive classroom experience. Some online DPT programs offer live online classes where you can ask professors questions and interact with your fellow students. If you are looking to stay engaged through a live class format, look for programs that offer “synchronous” or live coursework.

Physical Therapy Program Clinical Experience

In addition to hands-on learning on campus, you typically will need to complete internships that provide clinical experience to prepare for your career in physical therapy. If you are away from campus, make sure the program that interests you offers the level of support you need to find a clinical placement site.

Check out this list of physical therapy scholarships that you can use to help pay for your degree.

Why Choose an Online Physical Therapy Program?

Online DPT Programs Offer Flexibility

No matter what online DPT program you choose, you can benefit from greater flexibility when compared with on-campus programs. The ability to complete coursework from wherever you are makes it easier to balance other commitments that you have and stay close to home.

Physical Therapists are in High Demand

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the physical therapy field is expected to grow 11% between 2024 and 2034. Physical therapists also can work in a variety of settings, ranging from hospitals to nursing homes to private practice. Additionally, the average median wage for physical therapists was $101,020 in May 2024, much higher than the median annual wage for all occupations.

Physical Therapy Can Be a Rewarding Field

Through physical therapy, you can help people gain strength, restore mobility and even reduce or eliminate pain. The conditions and injuries that physical therapy addresses can significantly impact the well-being of patients in ways big and small, and you can help them progress and heal. Increased function and decreased pain can expand what people are able to do and can improve quality of life.

Physical Therapists Need a Doctorate Degree

New students are required to earn a DPT degree to become licensed in any state. Online DPT programs typically can be completed no matter your state of residence.

Information last updated January 2026.