MISSION STATEMENT

The Concordia University Wisconsin program in Physical Therapy is committed to developing health care professionals who have a sound foundation in movement science and are prepared for safe, autonomous, and ethical practice as physical therapists within a changing health care environment.  The program seeks to foster personal growth in mind, body, and spirit for Christian service to the community.

Facts About Our Physical Therapy Programs

Program History

The Division of Physical Therapy began in 1994 as an expansion of the University's service-oriented mission.  Since 1994 the Division of Physical Therapy at Concordia University Wisconsin has offered two degrees at the graduate level: (1) a Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) as the first professional preparation for practice as a physical therapist and (2) a Master of Science in Physical Therapy (MS-PT) as a post-professional degree for practicing Physical Therapists.

In response to a changing health care environment, and to reflect the continuing dedication to prepare students to enter professions of service, the program in Physical Therapy made the transition to offer its first doctorate.

In the fall of 2002 the program was granted permission from The Higher Learning Commission, a commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, to offer a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.  This approval allowed the University to offer both a post-professional (transitional) Doctor of Physical Therapy and professional (entry-level) Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. The first doctoral students graduated in December, 2002.  Concordia University Wisconsin was the first school in Wisconsin to offer the post-professional Doctor of Physical Therapy. 

Accreditation

The program in Physical Therapy has received accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education through the year 2011.

Faculty

There are 7 full-time faculty. Four of the core faculty hold doctoral degrees. Eight part-time faculty supplement the core faculty in teaching and lab assisting.  The majority of the faculty engage in clinical practice.  Faculty produce publications in peer-reviewed journals and present at national, state and local conferences.  The faculty to student ratio in labs is 1:12.  

Student Life

The CUW campus is situated on 155 acres on the shore of Lake Michigan just 15 minutes from downtown Milwaukee, the largest commercial center in Wisconsin.  This thriving metropolitan area gives students many opportunities for visits to local hospitals and clinics, in-services, state and local conferences and guest speakers.  In 1994, a new building was added for the physical and occupational therapy programs.  Students have access to five labs that have a wide variety of up-to-date equipment, including a gross anatomy cadaver laboratory.  A full range of services is available to graduate students including tutoring, health services, counseling, sports, fitness, drama, music, religious life, clinicals abroad, and cultural activities.  A fitness center has recently been added to the campus.  Parking at CUW is convenient and free to students.  Information regarding housing can be obtained from the Resident Life Office by calling 262.243.4328.