Physical therapist working with patient

Physical Therapy (3+3 Dual-Degree)

Our partnership with Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU) provides you with an opportunity to obtain both a bachelor's degree in biology or sport and exercise science from WLC and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) from RFU in just six years instead of the usual seven or eight.

You’ll complete three years of coursework at WLC - or, if you prefer, the traditional four years - then transition to RFU for your last three years.

This accelerated program is designed for students who want to pursue a career as a Doctor of Physical Therapy, allowing you to complete your doctorate degree in physical therapy a year or two earlier than typical, saving you tuition expenses and allowing you to enter the workforce with an advanced degree and begin earning income sooner.

Forbes recently ranked physical therapy as one of the ten “happiest jobs.” Physical therapists are also in high demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that 40,400 PT jobs will be added across the country in the next ten years, a rate well above the national average (anticipated 17% growth rate, much faster than average job outlook).

Our close affiliation with RFU means you will not need to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) that is required of most D.P.T. programs. A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.2 is required. Our partnership does not offer direct entry, therefore admission to RFU is competitive.

We've Partnered with Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science

Students interested in the Christ-centered academic experience that WLC offers can now also achieve their career aspiration through advanced education at Rosalind Franklin University. The Physical Therapy program at RFU has quickly developed a reputation for excellence in inter-professional health care education. RFU is located in a northern suburb of Chicago that offers incredible opportunities for clinical experiences. The RFU curriculum is designed to provide an in-depth and universal view of the profession, with an emphasis on clinical judgment based on current evidence to meet the evolving needs of society in a culturally sensitive manner.

The RFU two-year average National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) ultimate pass rate for the Classes of 2020 and 2021 was 100%. The two-year average Employment Rate for the Classes of 2019 and 2020 who passed the NPTE and sought employment in the field of physical therapy is 100%.

The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

Explore Rosalind Franklin University

Physical Therapy Advising Resources

Connect with Sport and Exercise Science Faculty

Hannah Bartels
Hannah Bartels Biology, Sport and Exercise Science Assistant Professor 414.443.8697 hannah.bartels@kkqja.com
Rachel Kuehl
Rachel Kuehl Sport and Exercise Science Associate Lecturer/Head of Sport & Exercise Science 414.443.8885 rachel.kuehl@kkqja.com
Lukas Ryan
Lukas Ryan Sport and Exercise Science Assistant Professor 414.443.8677 lukas.ryan@kkqja.com
Kate Schoen
Kate Schoen Sport and Exercise Science Assistant Lecturer 414.443.8874 katelynn.schoen@kkqja.com