Department of Physical Therapy

Dear Prospective Students, Alumni and family,

Welcome! Thank you for visiting the website for the Department of Physical Therapy at Hardin-Simmons University (HSU). HSU began offering the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree in 2002 and therefore was the first program in Texas and the first private school in the great state of Texas to offer the entry-level DPT degree. This program can be pursued after you receive a bachelor’s degree and prepares the student for a career in physical therapy.Our program offers students an outstanding education that is enlightened by Christian faith and values. HSU accepts ~ 28 students/year ensuring personal attention in a caring community. Our 8 full-time faculty members are all physical therapists with additional credentials in education and various specialty areas of clinical practice. In addition to our dedicated faculty, our outstanding students, facilities, intimate campus community, and dedication to service provide an excellent environment for professional growth in Physical Therapy.

In addition to the entry-level DPT degree, Hardin-Simmons University offers a transitional DPT (t-DPT) program for licensed physical therapists who wish to upgrade their level of education. This part-time 2 year program allows the clinician to maintain their job as a Physical Therapists while adding to their base of knowledge in areas such as evidence-based practice, differential diagnosis and imaging and to pursue more extensive knowledge in your own area of practice. I believe you can find answers to many of your questions on this website. However, please let me know how our department can further assist you by addressing any questions you have to ptoffice@hsutx.edu or joconnel@hsutx.edu.

Blessings for a wonderful day,
Janelle K. O’Connell, PT, Ph.D. DPT, ATC, LAT
Department Head and Professor
Director of Admissions