KU's hybrid pathway for the doctorate degree in physical therapy offers an accessible approach to our physical therapist program. This pathway was not designed to emulate classes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our hybrid pathway students will have the opportunity to learn in an independent capacity (asynchronous) online with flipped lectures prior to meeting for "in-class" active learning (synchronous) in the online environment. In addition, there will be lab activities virtually to prepare students prior to coming to campus 1-2 times per semester for extensive hands-on practice and skill development.
Our hybrid pathway students can expect to enjoy the full and avid support of our faculty, in the same manner as our on-campus cohort. In addition, all of KU physical therapy students begin early clinical integrated experiences in semester 2 through tele-rehabilitation and each semester following. The students on the hybrid pathway will also have the opportunity to contribute to the JaySTART pro bono clinic!
Tour our incredible gross anatomy lab, which will be the focal point of your first on-campus immersion session.
Ready to apply for our hybrid pathway? Start your application now!
Would you like to find out more? Sign up for an online information session.
Do you have questions about the program that haven’t been answered on our FAQ page? Email Robert for more information today!
On-Campus vs. Hybrid Pathway At a Glance
On Campus Pathway | Hybrid Pathway | |
---|---|---|
Effort | Full Time, 50-60 hours/week | Full Time, 50-60 hours/week |
Class Size | 60 students | 30 students |
Credit Hours | 110 (minimum) | 110 (minimum) |
Program Length | 9 consecutive semesters | 9 consecutive semesters |
Program Start | Summer term | Summer term |
Instruction Method | Synchronous, in person | Synchronous and asynchronous, online |
Laboratories | On-campus labs | Remote lab activities and on-campus lab immersions 2 times per semester* |
Clinical Education | 36 weeks, full time | 36 weeks, full time |
Estimated Costs | See costs and financial aid page. | See costs and financial aid page. |
* Lab immersions occur only during the first seven semesters of didactic coursework.
Watch a video tour of our learning spaces:
A Note About Changing Pathways
Once you have accepted a position in one pathway, you are committed to that pathway and cannot switch to the other. Likewise, you cannot opt to change pathways at any point in the curriculum once you have enrolled in the program.

Accreditation and Student Outcomes
The KU doctor of physical therapy program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.
Connect with us!
We're here to answer questions and provide assistance as you prepare for an exciting career in health care.
Thinking about applying?
Please send a message to Robert Bagley, senior academic program specialist using the form on this page.
We also offer on-campus and online visits with our program.
Looking for more information?
High school students and college students in their early undergraduate years of study may contact Alex Lopez, our school's outreach and recruitment specialist, at alopez12@kumc.edu or 913-588-1743 (711 TTY).