The George Washington University (GW) School of Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS) Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program continues to find a home among the top-ranked programs in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2021 Best Graduate Schools. The GW Health Sciences program jumped 15 spots since the last ranking in 2017, to be tied for 25th on the annual assessment of graduate programs.
“We are extremely excited to celebrate the national recognition of our doctor of physical therapy program,” said Ellen Costello, PhD, PT, director of the Physical Therapy Program at SMHS. “This distinction highlights the commitment of our faculty, students, alumna, clinical partners and staff as we join hands to provide a top-notch educational experience. We have nurtured a culture of excellence across all three pillars of the academy and proud to call ourselves part of the GW family.”
U.S. News & World Report evaluates programs based on four general categories: student engagement, student services and technology, faculty credentials and training, and peer reputation.
“The DPT program continues its upward trajectory as a preeminent program,” said Joyce Maring, DPT, EdD, chair of the Department of Health, Human Function and Rehabilitation Sciences at SMHS. “The recent rise in rankings is a testament to the hard work and commitment of all program stakeholders. That includes an excellent faculty, strong students, a supportive administration, and committed clinical partners.”
For 10 consecutive years, GW DPT graduates have achieved a 100 percent first-time pass rate on the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), the comprehensive exam that all PT graduates must pass to be eligible for licensure in the profession.
