Allen College receives accreditation for the Doctor of Physical Therapy program by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)

December 11, 2023

Allen College’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program was granted Accreditation status by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) on October 31, 2023. A program is granted accreditation when CAPTE has determined the program is in substantial compliance with the intent of the Standard and Required Elements. CAPTE is nationally recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and grants specialized accreditation status to qualified entry-level education programs for physical therapists.

Allen College’s inaugural class of DPT students enrolled in the spring of 2021 and graduated with the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree on December 15, 2023. This group, and all future graduates, are now eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for physical therapists. Successful completion of the NPTE is required for licensure in all 50 states.

“We are proud of this accomplishment and are confident in our mission of graduating skillful, knowledgeable, ethical, and professional physical therapists,” remarks Dr. Eric Arguello, DPT Program Director. “The first graduates were highly successful in clinical education and will be contributing to meeting the needs of patients in the areas of musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, pediatric and acute care.”

The three-year, hybrid program is the first of its kind in Iowa. The program combines didactic online education that students can complete from anywhere and hands-on lab immersions at Allen College’s campus in the newly constructed physical therapy lab which includes the Van G. Miller Anatomy lab. Additionally, students complete clinical experiences at sites across Iowa and U.S.

“I am so proud of the professionalism, dedication, and determination of our DPT program faculty and staff to develop the program and earn accreditation,” said Allen College President, Dr. Jared Seliger. “The end result is Allen College can provide highly qualified and competent physical therapists who serve a crucial role in healthcare organizations across the country.” 

Allen College is currently accepting applications for the January 2025 cohort; the application periods are January – May and June – December. 

For more information about the DPT program or to apply, visit our physical therapy website page or contact Myah Nystel, Admissions Counselor, at (319) 226-2019 or Admissions@allencollege.edu.