Washington University St Louis Physical Therapy
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
- N/A
- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Student life in the physical therapy program at Washington University reflects the close-knit cohort model and the demands of professional health education. The small class size creates strong bonds among classmates who progress through the curriculum together, with study groups, peer support, and social connections developing naturally. The program culture emphasizes collaboration and mutual support alongside the rigorous academic and clinical expectations. Graduate students in health professions programs at Washington University may access university housing options, though many students rent apartments in neighborhoods near the medical campus including the Central West End, Forest Park, and surrounding areas. St. Louis's relatively affordable cost of living compared to coastal cities makes graduate education more manageable financially. The medical campus provides access to fitness facilities, libraries, and other resources, while the Danforth Campus offers additional amenities. Student organizations in physical therapy connect students with professional development, community service, and social activities. The program sponsors white coat ceremonies and other events that mark progression through the curriculum. Clinical placements require flexibility as students may rotate through sites throughout the region. Career services support students as they approach graduation and employment. The demands of the program are substantial, with limited time for activities outside academics and clinical work, particularly during intensive periods. The program provides advising and support resources to assist students in managing the challenges of professional education.
Location & Surroundings
The physical therapy program operates from Washington University's medical campus in the Central West End neighborhood of St. Louis. This area combines the medical center complex with residential neighborhoods, restaurants, and urban amenities. Forest Park, one of the nation's largest urban parks, borders the area and provides recreational opportunities including the St. Louis Zoo, Art Museum, and extensive green space. Public transit in St. Louis includes MetroLink light rail and MetroBus services, though service is less comprehensive than in larger cities. Many students drive, with parking available though sometimes challenging near the medical campus. The campus location enables walking and biking to nearby neighborhoods. St. Louis Lambert International Airport provides domestic connections with some international service. The climate features continental conditions with cold winters that can bring snow and ice, hot and humid summers, and variable spring and fall seasons. St. Louis's cost of living is significantly lower than coastal cities, making graduate education more affordable. The medical campus location provides access to Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis Children's Hospital, and other facilities that serve as clinical training sites. The Central West End neighborhood offers restaurants, coffee shops, and cultural offerings that provide work-life balance during demanding academic and clinical rotations.
Costs & Career Outcomes
The Doctor of Physical Therapy program spans three years with tuition totaling approximately 150,000 USD. Living expenses in St. Louis are moderate, with students typically budgeting 15,000-18,000 USD annually. The total investment approaches 200,000 USD over the course of the program. Financial aid for DPT students is limited, with most students funding education through loans. Some scholarships and assistantships exist, but the majority of students borrow substantially. Students should carefully consider the financial commitment relative to expected career earnings. Career outcomes for Washington University DPT graduates are excellent, reflecting the program's top ranking and graduates' clinical preparation. Graduates enter roles in acute care, outpatient orthopedics, neurological rehabilitation, pediatrics, sports medicine, and other practice settings. Starting salaries for physical therapists typically range from 70,000-90,000 USD depending on setting and location, with some specialized positions paying more. The degree of debt relative to salary requires careful financial planning, though public service loan forgiveness programs may benefit graduates working in nonprofit or government settings. Career services support job placement, and the program's reputation creates strong employer interest. Some graduates pursue academic careers, residencies, or doctoral education to enhance their credentials.
Campus Location
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