Physical therapy is a crucial field in healthcare, aimed at helping people regain their movement and improve their quality of life. The journey to becoming a physical therapist involves completing a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, which is both demanding and rewarding. Understanding a day in the life of a DPT student is important for those considering this career path, as it offers a realistic view of the challenges and commitments involved. 

DPT programs are unique in the medical field. They combine rigorous academic study with practical clinical experience, preparing students to become knowledgeable and compassionate professionals in just three years. This inside look at the daily routine and outlook of a DPT student highlights the dedication required to succeed in this field and the significant impact these professionals have on their patients' lives.

We’ll explore a DPT program through three student perspectives. Read on to imagine life as a DPT student.

The Demands of a Physical Therapy Program

Enrolling in a DPT program is no small feat. These programs are designed to be rigorous and intensive, preparing students for a successful career in physical therapy through a combination of coursework and the development of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. 

A DPT program typically takes three years, during which students study a comprehensive curriculum that covers subjects from anatomy and physiology to patient care and ethics. From day one, DPT students dive into a schedule that requires their time and effort in the classroom and significant hours dedicated to independent study and practicum experiences. 

Learn more about the timeline, cost, and structure of a DPT program. 

The curriculum is carefully structured to ensure that as students acquire theoretical knowledge, they simultaneously develop the practical skills necessary to apply that knowledge in real-world settings. This balance is critical, as it nurtures PTs who are as proficient in analyzing and understanding complex medical conditions as they are in implementing effective treatment plans.

Don’t be discouraged by the program’s design! The extended hours and high expectations might seem daunting, but they are essential for preparing students to handle the responsibilities and challenges they will face as physical therapists. A good DPT program ensures that graduates are well-equipped to make a meaningful difference in the lives of their patients, contributing significantly to their recovery and quality of life.

Balancing School & Life in a DPT Program

Successfully navigating a DPT program requires more than academic dedication; it demands exceptional time management and self-care strategies to maintain a balance between your studies, clinical rotations, personal life, and well-being. Here are several key strategies that DPT students can use to manage their responsibilities effectively.

Prioritization and Organization

DPT students learn early on that prioritizing tasks and staying organized are non-negotiable. This involves setting up a realistic study schedule that includes time for lectures, practical sessions, and independent study. 

Effective Use of Downtime

Making smart use of downtime between classes and clinical rotations is another valuable strategy. Some students engage in quick review sessions, while others use this time for relaxation or socializing to ensure they are not always in "study mode." This approach helps in maintaining mental alertness and reducing burnout.

Self-Care and Wellness

DPT students understand the importance of self-care and make a conscious effort to incorporate wellness activities into their daily routines. This can range from regular physical exercise, which is ingrained in their field of study, to mindfulness practices such as yoga and meditation. Eating a balanced diet and ensuring adequate sleep are also fundamental aspects of maintaining physical and mental health.

Leveraging Peer Support

Peer support plays a valuable role in balancing school and life. Study groups and peer mentoring sessions facilitate learning and provide an avenue for emotional support. Sharing experiences and challenges with fellow students can help alleviate stress and foster a sense of community.

By employing these strategies, DPT students can navigate their education more effectively, ensuring they succeed academically and maintain their health and well-being throughout their journey to becoming physical therapists.

Neumann DPT Student Feature

We connected with current DPT student Tommy Loftus to learn firsthand guidance and perspective about his time in a physical therapy program. 

Tommy Loftus '26 | Ridley Park, PA

Why Neumann University for DPT?

The ability to commute to a school nearby that I had experience with was a huge factor in choosing Neumann for their PT program. Additionally, as an undergraduate Health Sciences major, I felt extremely well prepared to take on the challenges that PT school may present. 

What does your daily life look like as a Neumann DPT student?

Everyday life looks different week to week depending on the upcoming weekend courses, but for the most part, my work week consists of three 5-hour shifts. I start my day with a 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 work shift, followed by lunch and a few hours spent at school to study with my friends. This could be a 2:00 to 11:00 study session or a 3:00 to 6:00 study session. It all depends on what we have in the week ahead and how we feel about both the written content and hands-on content. 

What courses are you currently taking?

Neuromuscular PT on Saturdays, Cardiopulmonary PT and Clinical Reasoning on Sundays.

Are you in clinicals? 

In January, I will be doing my first rotation at Johns Hopkins Acute Rehab. Our clinical rotations are 10 weeks, so from the first week of January to about mid-March is when we'll be at our placements.

How do you manage to find school/work/life balance?

If there's an answer to this, let me know! I'll pay millions. I can't say I've found the perfect recipe and have struggled to make ample time for mostly the life part. I try to enjoy everything that I do, but being in school is certainly exhausting and makes maintaining a balance with life difficult for me. 

My flexibility and light work schedule is great, and I am willing to pour as much time into school as I need to in order to fully grasp concepts and ideas. Sometimes, making time for life falls in the rearview, and every now and then, I'll have to remind myself to make time to do the things I enjoy and sometimes go out of my way to make sure I'm not missing out on a fulfilling life. Taking breaks with my friends and classmates is crucial, and doing things together to relieve stress and enjoy ourselves is important to me and helps me feel like I am building meaningful relationships through common hardships. 

What advice would you give someone curious about pursuing a DPT?

If you know you want to summit the mountain, don't let the difficulty on the way up deter you and make you quit. Stick it out, and don't stop when things are hard. Find your group, put your head down, and get to work! Don't forget to have a good time while you're at it! 

Always remember that being a student of life is a lifelong journey. Learning as life continues to evolve and change is crucial. Keeping an open mind, optimistic attitude, and a general curiosity will lead you to incredible people, memories, and conversations. 

Starting a DPT Program

For those considering a career in physical therapy, the path ahead is rigorous but equally gratifying and offers opportunities to make a lasting impact on the lives of patients. The days you spend preparing for your career are foundational, shaping you into a knowledgeable, compassionate practitioner equipped to meet the complex needs of those you will serve. Every lecture, clinical rotation, and study session brings you one step closer to becoming a vital part of someone's journey to better health. Stay focused, embrace the challenges, and let your passion for healing lead you to a rewarding career in physical therapy.

Tommy’s advice is true: don’t let the difficulty deter you. If you’re not yet ready to enroll, check out a few of our blogs: How to Prepare for DPT School in Undergrad and Tips for Your DPT Program Application. 

Or, if you need more information on a DPT, explore our comprehensive resource: Guide to a Doctor of Physical Therapy.