University of New England

Letter from the Program Director

Greetings and welcome to the University of New England Physical Therapy Program's website.

The professional education program in physical therapy at the University of New England  transitioned from a blended undergraduate to graduate master of physical therapy (MPT) degree program to a free-standing graduate doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree program in 2004. The first class of DPT students graduated in May 2007.

Michael R. Sheldon, P.T., M.S., Associate Professor & Director

Rapid Transition
These changes at UNE reflect the rapid state of transition in physical therapy education throughout the nation.

While it took nearly two decades for the educational model to change from baccalaureate to master's-level education, the transition to education at the level of the clinical doctorate is happening at a significantly accelerated pace. At this time, most physical therapist education programs in the nation already offer, are in various stages of developing, or have indicated interest in developing a DPT degree program.

You may ask, why did the physical therapy program at UNE move to the clinical doctorate as the degree for entry-level practice?

Scope of Physical Therapy
The scope of physical therapy practice is expanding in the areas of critical inquiry, clinical decision-making, and the differential physical therapy diagnosis of impairments, functional limitations and disabilities. This scope of practice is reflective of the direct access to physical therapy services in most states including Maine.

In addition to direct patient/client care following an illness or injury, physical therapists are involved in prevention and wellness, health promotion, and health screening activities. Physical therapists also function as educators, consultants, scholars, and administrators.

The Best Preparation
It is the overwhelming opinion of the program faculty that education at the level of the clinical doctorate will best prepare graduates to function in a dynamic health care delivery system and in a society with diverse health care needs.

The Department is also fortunate to be surrounded by faculty and students from the College of Health Professions' other programs including: Physicians Assistant, Nurse Anesthesia, Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Occupational Therapy, and Social Work.  A primary focus of the College is to provide opportunities for all students to participate in interdisciplinary learning activities. 

The University of New England's Physical Therapy Program has always looked toward the future. We are confident that our new Doctor of Physical Therapy will prepare our graduates for the challenges and rewards of the profession in the 21st Century, and I invite you to learn more about your potential educational preparation in physical therapy at UNE.  

Sincerely,

Michael R. Sheldon, P.T., M.S.
Associate Professor and Director
Department of Physical Therapy