News Summary
The University of Memphis Lambuth has announced the launch of its Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program aimed at local students. This program addresses the growing need for qualified physical therapists in West Tennessee, providing students with the chance to pursue advanced education in their community. An open house showcased newly renovated clinical facilities, while the program is set to admit its first cohort of students in Fall 2026, with applications currently open. This initiative is crucial for strengthening the local healthcare workforce and retaining talent in the region.
Jackson, TN – The University of Memphis Lambuth has officially announced the launch of its new Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, designed to retain local students and strengthen the workforce in West Tennessee. This initiative aims to address the growing demand for qualified physical therapists in the region while providing an opportunity for local students to pursue advanced education closer to home.
On July 18, university representatives hosted an open house to allow prospective students to tour the newly renovated clinical facilities that will be utilized for the program. The DPT program is set to cover a broad spectrum of specializations within the field of physical therapy, including orthopedics, neurology, pediatrics, inpatient acute care, and sports medicine, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for various career paths in healthcare.
Dr. Jacque Bradford, the DPT Program Director, emphasized the importance of this program’s creation, noting the challenges local students have faced in gaining acceptance into current DPT programs that offer limited spaces. Previously, many students were compelled to travel to distant places like Jacksonville, Florida, to continue their education, which underscored the need for a locally accessible option.
The University of Memphis initiated the exploratory process for the DPT program back in 2019 and is now transitioning towards full implementation. The program is expected to admit its first cohort of 40 students in Fall 2026, with applications currently open on a rolling basis. The application period began on June 16 and will conclude on March 16, 2026. This timeline stands in contrast to the standard application cycles for accredited DPT programs, which typically run from June to October or November. The University of Memphis opted to extend its application window due to the program’s developmental phase.
The DPT program plans to maintain a small faculty-to-student ratio by hiring a total of 10 faculty members. This strategic approach is designed to ensure a personalized educational experience for each student, enhancing the learning process. Current student Jilliann Rowsey expressed her eagerness to finalize her education within her local community and acknowledged the supportive environment provided by the faculty at Lambuth, showcasing the program’s commitment to student engagement and mentorship.
In addition to its educational infrastructure, the Lambuth campus is preparing to submit its Application for Candidacy to the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education in November 2025, with the aim of achieving candidacy by May 2026. This accreditation is a crucial milestone for the program, as it will validate the curriculum and the quality of education provided to students.
The launch of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the University of Memphis Lambuth is a significant development for the area, offering local students the chance to pursue their advanced education in a field that is critical to community health. By keeping education local, the university hopes to not only retain talent but also contribute to a stronger healthcare workforce in West Tennessee, ultimately benefitting the residents and the economy.
For those interested in applying to the program or seeking further information, prospective students are encouraged to consider attending future open houses or visiting the university’s website for application details and updates on the program’s accreditation status.
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