Wilson College launches accelerated Doctor of Physical Therapy program

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Chambersburg-based Wilson College is launching a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.

The hybrid, accelerated degree is designed to prepare practice-ready physical therapists in two years. Applications for the inaugural cohort open on July 15, and classes are expected to begin in August 2027.

“Our Doctor of Physical Therapy program reflects Wilson College’s commitment to forward-thinking education and preparing graduates to lead in meaningful ways,” Wilson College President Dr. Wesley Fugate said in a statement. “We are equipping students not only with technical expertise, but also with the leadership mindset needed to improve healthcare outcomes and transform patient experiences.”

According to a release, students will benefit from a structured curriculum that focuses on developing the advanced clinical skills and professional judgment required in healthcare. Evidence In Motion (EIM), a provider of online and hybrid healthcare education, partners with Wilson College to deliver the program’s hybrid structure and curriculum.

Wilson’s DPT program features a hybrid accelerated format, combining online coursework with intensive, in-person lab immersions led by faculty. These immersive experiences take place in a facility in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, ensuring students receive hands-on training.

The demand for skilled physical therapists continues to grow across healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, sports organizations, and home health environments. Wilson College’s DPT program prepares graduates to work with a wide range of populations and across specialties such as musculoskeletal, neurology, sports medicine, primary care, and chronic disease management.

“At Wilson, we believe physical therapy is about more than movement. It’s about helping people restore purpose, independence, and quality of life,” said Dr. Tony Varela, Doctor of Physical Therapy program professor and program director.

Applications for the Doctor of Physical Therapy program are submitted through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service). Per the release, the program offers multiple entry pathways, including options for students with a bachelor’s degree as well as licensed healthcare professionals with relevant patient-facing experience. Certain licensed professionals, including athletic trainers, EMTs, nurses, and physical therapist assistants with at least one year of patient-facing experience may qualify for waived prerequisite requirements.

A private coeducational liberal arts college, Wilson College offers bachelor’s degrees in 34 majors and 40 minors in high-demand and innovative fields including education, nursing, equine studies, veterinary nursing, and sport management, as well as graduate degrees in education, fine arts, the humanities, nursing, and organizational leadership.