Welcome to the CU Physical Therapy Program

The University of Colorado has established a tradition of excellence in the educational preparation of physical therapists for over 75 years.   

The University of Colorado (CU) Physical Therapy (PT) Program is a 2.5 year program offered as a residential pathway through the cohort beginning in 2023, and both a residential and hybrid pathway beginning in summer 2024. The academic program (including clinical education) starts in the summer and continues for 8 consecutive semesters. Full-time and part-time clinical education experiences are interspersed throughout the first two years and begin as early as the second semester (fall). During the Fall semester of the third year all students complete a final 16 week clinical internship. Upon completion of the Program, students are awarded the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, and are eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE). Following graduation, some students will continue in a year-long paid internship at the same site for an additional 36 weeks and other students may continue in a specially designed internship and/or post-professional residency experience, while others choose to assume employment as a licensed PT.

Click HERE to learn more about the Residential Pathway.

On interview day I learned that CU values a holistic education, and truly listens to student input. I was excited to join a community that intentionally built an educational program geared towards student learning.

Louise Fix

Class of 2021

Mission

The University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program leads discovery and innovation to improve movement, participation, health, and wellness for individuals and society through excellence in education, research, clinical care, and service.

Vision

We transform health and foster wellness in individuals and society through education, discoveries, engagement and innovation.

Values

Respect: For all individuals’ safety, rights, dignity, and perspectives
Integrity: Because professional behavior reflects who we are
Altruism: In service to the individual, community, and organization
Diversity: For inclusivity in all endeavors
Accountability: To all those seeking care and providing care within our profession and health care systems
Passion: Because we are committed to lifelong learning, service, and community engagement
Collaboration: To leverage collective input from all individuals
Leadership: Within the university, profession and community at large
Quality: To attain excellence in all we do