Holistic physical therapy education
Concordia's PT program is committed to equipping you with a sound foundation in movement science, faith, and integrity. Whether you're currently a PTA or beginning your search for physical therapist schooling, our program will empower you to graduate prepared for safe, autonomous, and ethical practice, ready to serve your patients and community in mind, body, and spirit.
- Physical Therapist (PT)
- Home Care PT
- Pediatric PT
We are committed to engaging your mind and spirit for service to Christ in the church and the world.
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We're excited to offer multiple program pathways to help you take the next step in your career as a physical therapist. At Concordia, you’ll receive in-depth training for the entry-level practice of physical therapy as a generalist clinician. Not only will you explore the scientific underpinnings of PT but also the professional characteristics required in healthcare leadership; learn how to supervise PT staff, create programs promoting healthy, holistic lifestyles, and follow the ethical and legal standards necessary in clinical practice.
The following PT pathways will help you to streamline your doctorate with the path that best suits your needs and educational background:
- Accelerated PT bachelor's
- For incoming freshmen looking to earn both their bachelor's and doctorate in 6 years - PTA to DPT bridge programs
- For PTA's with an associate or bachelor's degree
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Hear from our students
Our goal is to ensure that as a DPT graduate, you'll be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills for entry-level practice of physical therapy as a generalist clinician. Our comprehensive curriculum includes coursework in human anatomy and motion, therapeutic exercise, neuroscience, clinical decision-making and problem-solving, and musculoskeletal disorders - just to name a few. Learn more about our program goals and outcomes on the outcome tab.
The graduate portion of our DPT program is available in a hybrid format, combining online learning with one on-campus weekend each month. Our state-of-the-art facilities give you access to our human anatomy lab, where you'll have opportunities to interact with cadavers to supplement your education. By combining classroom, laboratory, and clinical education, you'll graduate with the knowledge and skills necessary to embody professionalism, servant leadership, and advocacy in the ever-changing healthcare system.
The physical therapy program at CUW is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Graduation from a CAPTE-accredited program is required for eligibility to sit for the licensing exam, for which Concordia graduates have an overall first-time three-year pass rate of 100%. Graduates will be eligible to sit for the national licensing exam. You may also be interested in adding a specialty to your PT license. Consider Concordia's orthopedic residency program as a way to add an orthopedic specialty to your DPT.
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DPT Admissions
Applicants to the Doctor of Physical Therapy program apply through an online service called Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS). To learn more about the PTCAS application process, prerequisites, CUW’s admission requirements, and admission deadlines, please visit www.ptcas.org.
Please submit your official GRE scores to code 7697 for the Concordia DPT program; they will automatically be sent to PTCAS. Do not send your GRE scores to the main university or graduate admissions code.
To apply for this program you must have the following:
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 in all required sciences with no final individual science prerequisite course grade less than a C
- Ability to perform Essential Functions of a physical therapist
- Completion of the following pre-req courses: (also see PTCAS for listing)
- Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II: full year sequence of either separate Anatomy and Physiology courses or A&P I and II are accepted. Must include Lab.
- Chemistry I & II: two-semester sequence of General or Inorganic Chemistry with labs is required.
- Physics I & II: two-semester sequence of General Physics with labs is required. Courses do not need to be Calculus-based.
- Psychology: one semester. A course in psychological statistics will not fulfill the psychology requirement but may be used to meet the statistics.
- Statistics Course: one semester of the following courses meet statistics requirement: Biology: Biostatistics; Business: Statistics, Mathematics: Statistics; Psychology: Statistics; Education: Statistics
Priority DPT Admission
We offer priority admission to CUW students who:
- Are current, full time students at CUW and will graduate with a bachelor’s degree from Mequon or Ann Arbor
- At the time of application are not missing more than one prerequisite science course
- Have an overall science pre-requisite course GPA of 3.30 with no individual science prerequisite course grade less than a C. Demonstrate proficiency in science courses in the first attempt at taking the course.
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
- Submit all applications materials by the PTCAS “Early Decision” deadline, and
- Successfully complete a personal interview
Accelerated DPT Admission
The accelerated admission option will allow students to complete the Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in six rather than seven years. The option will be open to students who matriculate as freshmen at the Concordia University Mequon campus and who take all their science prerequisite coursework on the Mequon campus.
If you decide to pursue admission through the accelerated process, you will receive a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Science (BSRS) following completion of your fourth year of academic study at Concordia University.
Admission into the DPT Track of the Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Science
- High School Graduate with a high school overall GPA of 3.45
- Evidence of Service/Extracurricular Activity/Athletics
- Minimum ACT score of 24
Accelerated Admission for CUW students
- Major in Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Science (BSRS)/DPT track at Concordia University
- Have an overall science pre-requisite course GPA of 3.30 with no individual science prerequisite course grade less than a C
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
- Demonstrate proficiency in science courses in the first attempt at taking the course. Science prerequisite GPA will be calculated using the first earned grade in the course. If a student re-takes a course and he/she desires the second grade counted to their GPA (science or overall), they are no longer eligible for accelerated admission and will need to apply through the regular 4 year DPT degree application process (process open to graduates of non-Concordia Wisconsin degree programs). In addition, students who withdraw from a course late in the semester are not eligible for accelerated admission.
- Have all Science prerequisite courses completed by end of spring semester sophomore year and apply for early decision via Physical Therapy Centralized Application Service (PTCAS) during summer between sophomore and junior year.
- Have all their science prerequisite coursework completed at Concordia University Mequon
- Complete an admission interview during early decision day. This will occur during Fall Semester of their Junior Year
Reach100 is a nationwide call to membership for PT and PTA students to demonstrate their commitment to APTA membership. For more information, please click here.
St. Norbert College and Viterbo University
Current students and alumni of St. Norbert College (SNC) and Viterbo University (VU) will be given priority admission to the DPT program if they meet the following requirements:
- Have a verified PTCAS application by the deadline
- Have earned a 3.30 in the science prerequisite courses AND have a 3.0 overall GPA.
- All science courses will need to be completed at SNC or VU.
- For additional requirements for SNC and VU graduates, please check with your pre-physical therapy advisor.
The Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Concordia University Wisconsin is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 262-243-4485 or email dale.gerke@cuw.edu.
The program has determined that its curriculum meets the state educational requirements for licensure or certification in all states, the District of Colombia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands secondary to its accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education, based on the following:
CAPTE accreditation of a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant program satisfies state educational requirements in all states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Thus, students graduating from CAPTE-accredited physical therapist and physical therapist assistant education programs are eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Examination and apply for licensure in all states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. For more information regarding state qualifications and licensure requirements, refer to the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy website at www.fsbpt.org.
Concordia University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission hlcommission.org, a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) approved Concordia University DPT program's application for substantive change and continues accreditation for a Bridge DPT cohort. Effective date of this approval was November 2, 2021. The first cohort of students matriculated into the Bridge DPT program on 1/3/22.
States have established standards of practice for physical therapists. While at the present time, we cannot provide a particular state’s specific requirements for licensing, we can assure you that we will provide you with the contact information for the state Board of Physical Therapy for the state in which you are doing study.
Any individual or organization with a concern about an experience with any student, faculty, or staff member of the Department of Physical Therapy at Concordia University may file a written complaint against the Department. Anonymous complaints will not be responded to by the director. Complaints should be addressed to: Director, Physical Therapy Program, Concordia University 12800 N Lake Shore Dr Mequon WI 53097-2402
Elizabeth Alfonsi
PT, DPT, ATC, Director of Clincial Education
Assistant Professor
Phone: (262) 243-2169
Bio
Dr. Alfonsi is the Director of Clinical Education for the Physical Therapy program and is responsible for the 5 clinical education courses including Clinical Problem Solving I/II/III and Clinical Practice I/II.

Education
- DPT - Physical Therapy, Marquette University (2009)
- BS - Athletic Training, Marquette University (2007)
Research Interests
- Clinical Education
- Student success
Teaching Interests
- Clinical Education
- Community Practice
Hannah Baker
PT, DPT, PhD, Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Geriatric Physical Therapy
Assistant Professor
Office: Health Services 137
Phone: (262) 243-2245
Bio
Dr. Baker brings extensive clinical background in geriatrics, skilled nursing facilities, and student mentorship to teaching at CUW. She recently earned her Ph.D. in interdisciplinary health sciences through NIU.

Education
- DPT - Concordia University Wisconsin (2013)
- Ph D - Inter professional health sciences, Northern Illinois University (2022)
Contributions
- Johnson, H. (2021). Restorative Quality Improvement: Novel Application of Six Sigma in a Skilled Nursing Facility. (1 ed., vol. 36, pp. 67-73). Journal of Nursing Care Quality. https://pubmed.nc...
- Kim, J., Gray, J. & Johnson, H. (2021). The effect of a web-based deep breathing app on the stress of direct care workers: uncontrolled intervention study. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. https://www.liebe...
- Johnson, H. (2018). Psychosocial Elements of Physical Therapy: The Connection of Body to Mind. (pp. 288). Thorofare, NJ: SLACK. https://www.slack...
Research Interests
- Inter professional teams
- Long-term care physical activity
Teaching Interests
- Geriatrics
- Psychosocial aspects of health care
Robert Barnhart
PT, MS, ScDPT, Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Physical Therapy - Emeritus
Program Director, Professor
Office: Health Services HS110D
Phone: (262) 243-4280
Bio
Director and Professor Physical Therapy

Education
- Sci D - Physical Therapy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center (2006)
- MS - Rehabilitation/Adaptive Physical Education, University of Tennessee (1992)
- BA - Psychology, West Virginia Wesleyan College (1977)
- Physical Therapy, Emory University School of Medicine (1979)
Presentations
- Hensel, L., Barnhart, R., Moser, C., Routier, W. & Watry-Christian, M., (2017). Problem-Based Learning Inter-Disciplinary Experience. Oral Presentation. CU Faculty Scholarship Presentation. Concordia University, Mequon Campus.
- Hensel, L., Barnhart, R., Moser, C., Routier, W. & Watry-Christian, M., (2016). Problem-based Learning: An Inter-disciplinary Collaborative Student Experience . Poster. Lilly Conference on Designing Effective Teaching. Asheville, NC.
Research Interests
- Improving motor skills in children with DCD and ASD
- Impact Spirituality (therapist and patient) has on rehabilitation process
Teaching Interests
- Pediatric Rehabilitation
- Motor development and control
Kate Bennett
PT, DPT, ATC, Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Neurologic Physical Therapy
Assistant Professor
Office: Heidelberg Hall 209
Phone: (262) 243-2259
Bio
Dr. Bennett shares her extensive (20+) clinical experience while teaching clinical application of adult neurologic rehab, pathological gait, and foundational skills.

Education
- DPT - Physical Therapy, College of St. Scholastica (2015)
- MPT - Physical Therapy, Marquette University (1999)
- BA - Psychology, Marquette University (1997)
Research Interests
- Gait parameters predictive of fall risk
- Acute dizziness
Teaching Interests
- Adult Neuro Rehab
- Acute care skills
Lee J. Coleman
PT, DPT, Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy
Assistant Professor
Office: Health Services HS104B
Phone: (262) 243-4291
Bio
Dr. Lee J. Coleman teaches across all three cohorts in the Concordia Physical Therapy program including Foundations of Physical Therapy, Introduction to Professional Practice, Orthopedics, & elective manual therapy coursework.

Education
- DPT - Physical Therapy , Concordia University Wisconsin (2011)
- BA - Biology, Saint Mary's University (2008)
Research Interests
- Pain Neuroscience Education
- Endurance Running / Wellness
Teaching Interests
- Orthopedics
- Manual Therapy
Dale Gerke
PT, MPT, ScD Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedics; Fellow, American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists
Department Chair - Physical Therapy, Professor
Office: Heidelberg Hall H220
Phone: (262) 243-4485
Bio
Dale Gerke is a Professor at Concordia University Wisconsin and serves as the Director of the Orthopedic Residency Program. He teaches in the Entry Level Physical Therapy and Orthopedic Residency programs. Dr. Gerke has been the Director of the Orthopedic Residency program since 2013.

Education
- MPT - Physical Therapy, Concordia University Wisconsin (2000)
- BA - History/Secondary Education, Wisconsin Lutheran College (1996)
- Physical Therapy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (2009)
Presentations
- Gerke, D., Nelson, E., Bruggink, B., Smith, Z., Goetz, E. & Menges, L., (2021). A Survey of Diagnostic Imaging Curricula in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Residency and Fellowship Programs. Oral Presentation. APTA: Combined Sections Meeting. Virtual.
- Berrios Barillas, R., Frazier, T. & Gerke, D., (2017). Shoulder Pain: Visceral or Musculoskeletal in Origin. Oral Presentation. CUW SHP Conference. Mequon.
Research Interests
- Medical Imaging
- Musculoskeletal Pathology
Teaching Interests
- Medical Imaging
- Biomechanics
Emily Goetz-Sutinen
PT, DPT, Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy
Assistant Professor
Office: Health Services 101 R
Phone: (262) 243-4285

Education
- DPT - Physical Therapy, Concordia University - Wisconsin (2018)
- BS - Biology - Biomedical Sciences, St. Norbert College (2014)
Presentations
- Gerke, D., Nelson, E., Bruggink, B., Smith, Z., Goetz, E. & Menges, L., (2021). A Survey of Diagnostic Imaging Curricula in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Residency and Fellowship Programs. Oral Presentation. APTA: Combined Sections Meeting. Virtual.
- Goetz, E., Menges, L. & Bidney, A., (2019). When are They Ready: An Objective Influence on Return to Sport Decision Making After ACL Reconstruction. Oral Presentation. Aurora Sport Symposium. Sussex, WI.
- Goetz, E., Menges, L. & Bidney, A., (2019). “Perform in Practice: A Lab on Implementation and Utilization of Functional Testing for ACL Return to Sport and More”. Demonstration. Aurora Sport Symposium. Sussex, WI.
Research Interests
- Medical Imaging in Physical Therapy
Teaching Interests
- Kinesiology and Biomechanics
- Orthopedics
Kevin J. Gries
PhD
Assistant Professor
Office: Health Services 101S
Phone: (262) 243-4293

Education
- Ph D - Human Bioenergetics, Ball State University (2019)
- MS - Human Performance, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (2015)
- BS - Exercise Physiology, Concordia University of Wisconsin (2012)
Contributions
- Gries, K., Hart, C., Kunz, H., Ryan, Z., Zhang, X., Parvizi, M., Liu, Y., Dasari, S. & Lanza, I. (2022). Acute responsiveness to single leg cycling in adults with obesity.. (24 ed., vol. 10, pp. e15539). Physiological reports.
- Jobe, T., Shaffer, H., Doci, C. & Gries, K. (2022). Sex Differences in Performance and Depth of Field in the United States Olympic Trials.. (11 ed., vol. 36, pp. 3122-3129). Journal of strength and conditioning research.
- Kunz, H., Michie, K., Gries, K., Zhang, X., Ryan, Z. & Lanza, I. (2022). A Randomized Trial of the Effects of Dietary n3-PUFAs on Skeletal Muscle Function and Acute Exercise Response in Healthy Older Adults.. (17 ed., vol. 14). Nutrients.
- Gries, K. & Trappe, S. (2022). The Aging Athlete: Paradigm of Healthy Aging.. (8 ed., vol. 43, pp. 661-678). International journal of sports medicine.
- Vanderboom, P., Zhang, X., Hart, C., Kunz, H., Gries, K., Heppelmann, C., Liu, Y., Dasari, S. & Lanza, I. (2022). Impact of obesity on the molecular response to a single bout of exercise in a preliminary human cohort.. (5 ed., vol. 30, pp. 1091-1104). Obesity (Silver Spring, Md.).
Presentations
- Gries, K. (2023). Training Elite Athletes Across the Lifespan. Lecture. American Physical Therapy Association - Wisconsin. Pewaukee, WI.
- Thomas, J., Zahl, S. & Gries, K., (2022). Preparation of Medical Students to Prescribe Exercise as Medicine. Poster. Annual Meeting. Indianapolis, IN.
Research Interests
- Human Performance
- Muscle Physiology
Teaching Interests
- Exercise Physiology
- Health Promotion
Lois Harrison
PT, DPT, MS, CHAIS
Associate Professor
Phone: (262) 243-4468
Bio
Dr. Harrison is the School of Health Professions Inter-professional Clinic Coordinator at Concordia University Wisconsin. Her research interests focus on inter-professional education, animal assisted interventions, and health/wellness for individuals with intellectual/ developmental disability.

Education
- DPT - Physical Therapy, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (2007)
- MS - Physical Therapy, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (1997)
- BS - Physical Therapy, University of Wisconsin - Madison (1986)
Contributions
- Chappy, S., Harrison, L., Kukor, S., Oldani, M. & Suss, T. (2019). Driving Wellness Home: Academic-Community Partnership with Fresh Meals on Wheels. Milwaukee, WI: Building Bridges to Evidence Based Nursing Practice.
Research Interests
- Interprofessional Education and Practice
- Animal Assisted Interventions
Teaching Interests
- Interprofessional Education and Practice
- Animal Assisted Interventions
Kathy J. Lemley
PT, BSPT, MS, PhD
Professor
Office: Heidelberg Hall H225
Phone: (262) 243-2615
Bio
Kathy Lemley teaches human anatomy and neuroscience in the Physical Therapy program. Her research focuses on pain perception and exercise for pain management across the lifespan as well as anatomy education.

Education
- Ph D - Interdisciplinary - Neuromuscular and Rehabilitation Science, Marquette University (2014)
- MS - Human Kinetics, University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee (1999)
- BS - Physical Therapy, University of Wisconsin (1984)
Contributions
- Berrios Barillas, R. & Lemley, K. (2021). Is compressed and limited synchronous delivery of anatomy content effective in transitional OT student learning?. (2 ed., vol. 5, pp. 11). Journal of Occupational Therapy Education. https://encompass...
Presentations
- Lemley, K. (2020). Anatomy of a Stroke. Oral Presentation. School of Health Professions Annual Conference. Mequon.
- Albers, M., Bares, K., Kitching, A., Miller, A., Olson, A., Schulz, A., Suess, B., Wegener, S., Morrissey, A., Stolzman, S. & Lemley, K., (2019). Effects of Retrowalking on Exercise-Induced Hypoalgesia in Healthy Young Adults: A Pilot Study. Poster. Wisconsin Physical Therapy Association Fall Conference. Madison, WI.
- Lemley, K., Stolzman, S. & Morrissey, A., (2019). Leg Dominance May Influence Exercise-Induced Hypoalgesia Response to Moderate Intensity Retrowalking: A Pilot Study. Poster. American Pain Society Annual Scientific Meeting. Milwaukee.
- Sojka, M., Brunette, P., Barg, A., Wolf, A., Hausl, S., Thompson, S., Poirier, N., Sanders, S., Fischer, R. & Lemley, K., (2018). Does retrowalking result in exercise-induced hypoalgesia in adults with lower extremity osteoarthritis? A systematic review. Poster. Wisconsin Physical Therapy Association Fall Conference. Wisconsin Dells, WI.
Research Interests
- Neuroscience of Pain
- Non-pharmacological Management of Pain
Teaching Interests
- Human Anatomy
- Neuroscience
Elizabeth L. Paly
PT, DPT, Board Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist
Associate Professor
Phone: (262) 243-4230
Bio
My clinical practice spans over forty years, with experience in all aspects of acute care and outpatient physical therapy. My areas of expertise are in the physical therapy management of the geriatric patients with special interest in working with the individual with Parkinson Disease. I am a Board Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist. I recently applied for re-certification which is good for an additional 10 years

Education
- DPT - Physical Therapy, Concordia University (2007)
- BS - Physical Therapy, Marquette University (1982)
Contributions
- Petersen, C., Steffen, T., Paly, E., Dvorak, L. & Nelson, R. (2016). Reliability and Mininal Detectable Change for Sit-to-Stand tests and the Functional Gait Assessment for Individuals with Parkinson Disease. (vol. 00, pp. 1-4). Academy of Geriatric Physical Therapy: Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy.
Research Interests
- Intervention studies to facilitate improved functional outcomes for the individual with Parkinson Disease
Teaching Interests
- Physical Therapy management of the geriatric patient
- Clinical decision making, therapeutic exercise and application of biophysical agents as it relates to patient clinical practice.
Halee Shepard
PT, DPT, MBA, EdD
Coordinator - DPT Bridge Program and Director of Clinical Education, Assistant Professor
Office: Health Services HS101N

Education
- DPT - St. Ambrose University (2011)
- EDD - Doctorate in Educational Leadership, University of the Cumberlands (2022)
- MBA - Healthcare Management, Herzing University (2016)
- BS - Exercise Science, St. Ambrose University (2010)
Stacy C. Stolzman
PT, MPT, PhD
Associate Professor
Office: Heidelberg Hall 225
Phone: (262) 243-2176
Bio
Stacy Stolzman, a pediatric physical therapist, is dedicated to teaching the next generation of physical therapy professionals through graduate coursework focused on how a PT addresses promotion of normal physiology and rehabilitation of pathophysiology across the lifespan. In addition, she engages students in simulation learning within cardiopulmonary and acute care physical therapy using evidence-based practice.<br><br>Her research focuses on pediatric obesity, metabolic syndrome, physical fitness, body composition and the ability of exercise to decrease clinical pain. She is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association and serves on the Research Committee of the Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy and APTA Wisconsin Pain SIG. At CUW, she serves on the Institutional Review Board (IRB) and the Concordia Intramural Research Grant (CIRG) Committee.

Education
- Ph D - Clinical & Translational Rehabilitation Health Sciences, Marquette University (2015)
- MS - Physical Therapy, Marquette University (1999)
- BA - Psychology, Marquette University (1997)
- Assessments of the Biopsychosocial Health of Adolescent Females, Marquette University (2016)
Contributions
- Wrucke, D., Hoeger Bement, M., Harkins , A., Hunter, S., Stolzman, S. & Kaugars, A. (2022). Health Sciences Students' Career Commitment, Mental Health, and Physical Activity during the COVID-19 Pandemic. (vol. October 22, pp. 1-8). Journal of College Health. https://doi.org/1...
- Gremillion, M., Lang, A., Everhart, S., Davis, W., Weisman, S., Stolzman, S. & Hainsworth, K. (2022). Effects of Weight and Pain on Physical Activity: Insights from the Lived Experiences of Youth with Co-Occurring Chronic Pain and Obesity. In Joseph Skelton, MD (Ed.), (5 ed., vol. 18, pp. 301-308). Childhood Obesity. https://doi.org/1...
- Gremillion, M., Lang, A., Everhart, S., Davis, W., Weisman, S., Stolzman, S. & Hainsworth, K. (2021). Obesity in Youth with Chronic Pain: Giving It the Seriousness It Deserves. (vol. 16 March 2021). Pain Medicine. https://doi.org/1...
- Stolzman, S., Harkins, A., Skelton, J. & Hoeger Bement, M. (2019). Does Weight Status Impact Metabolic Health in Adolescents When Controlling for Physical Fitness?. In Linda Fetters (Ed.), (2 ed., vol. 31, pp. 134-140). Philadelphia, PA: Pediatric Physical Therapy Journal. https://journals....
- Stolzman, S. (2017). Comparison of Metabolic Syndrome Guidelines in an Adolescent Population. In Linda Fetters (Ed.), (1 ed., vol. 29, pp. E1-E6). Philadelphia, PA: Pediatric Physical Therapy. https://journals....
Presentations
- Stolzman, S., Kurszewski, W. & Schaack, B., (2023). Table for 2, Part 2: Pain Care Case Studies. Oral Presentation. APTA Wisconsin Spring 2023 Conference. Pewaukee, WI.
- Gremillion, M., Hainsworth, K. & Stolzman, S., (2022). Pain Dismissal in the Context of Pediatric Chronic Pain and Obesity. Oral Presentation. Children’s Research Institute (CRI) Research Conference. Milwaukee, WI.
- LiaBraaten, B., Stolzman, S., Anderson, K., Brimeyer, C., Gremillion, M., Kapke, T., Linneman, N., Weisman, S. & Hainsworth, K., (2022). Rate of Perceived Exertion—Pediatric (RPE-P): Preliminary Validation in Groups Varying by Chronic Pain and Weight. Poster. The Society for Pediatric Psychology Annual Conference. Phoenix, AZ.
- Stolzman, S., Harkins, A., Hoeger Bement, M., Hunter, S. & Kaugars, A., (2021). Effects of COVID-19 on Health Sciences Students. Oral Presentation. Concordia University Wisconsin Faculty Scholarship Week 2021. Concordia University Wisconsin.
- Stolzman, S. (2020). Systemic Impact of Pediatric Obesity. Oral Presentation. Treating Children and Teens with Obesity: What do Physical/Occupational Therapists Need to Know?. Milwaukee, WI.
Research Interests
- Obesity & The Chronic Inflammatory State
- Pain & Exercise
Teaching Interests
- Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy
- Pediatrics
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program - Bridge track is designed for licensed Physical therapy Assistants (PTA) with at least one year of experience. Our flexible hybrid learning format allows you to learn online with one on-campus weekend required per month (Fridays 12 pm-9 pm & Saturdays 8 am-5 pm). Small class sizes allow you to connect personally with faculty and your cohort, and diverse Interprofessional learning experiences with other CUW programs and other institutions allow you to network with a wide variety of healthcare professionals.
Choose between our two bridge programs based on your current level of education:
- For PTA's with an associate degree - PTA to BSRS to DPT
- For PTA's with their bachelor's degree - PTA to DPT Bridge
Licensed PTAs with a bachelor's degree and at least one year of experience can earn a DPT degree in as little as 3-years. (105 credits) The hybrid program format allows students to continue working as a PTA for approximately 10 hours per week during the first two years of the program.
View a PTA to DPT Bridge curriculum sample here
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
All students applying for admission to the program must:
- Be a licensed physical therapist assistant working at least 80 hours per month as a PTA
- Have a 3.0 cumulative GPA in PTA education and
- 3.0 GPA in foundational science courses
- Two semesters of physics with a lab
- Two semesters of chemistry with a lab
- Two semesters of human anatomy and physiology, both taught in a department of science, anatomy, biomedical science, or biology
- One semester of statistics
- One semester of psychology
- Submit GRE scores
Applicants who already have their bachelor's can apply to the Doctor of Physical Therapy Bridge program through an online service called Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS). To learn more about the prerequisites, CUW’s admission requirements, and admission deadlines, please visit our profile on PTCAS.
To start your application, please click this link for PTCAS. Official application opens in March of every year.
Please submit your official GRE scores to code 7697; they will automatically be sent to PTCAS. Do not send your GRE scores to the main university or graduate admissions.
Applicants with an associate degree can earn a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Science (BSRS) and a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree in 4.5 years. Applicants whose highest degree is an associate degree must apply for the BSRS bridge program.
- PTA + BSRS = 1.5 years (BSRS 60 credits + 60 transfer credits)
- Bridge DPT = 3 years (105 credits in Bridge DPT program)
Learn more about the BSRS curriculum here
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
All students applying for admission to the program must:
- Be a licensed physical therapist assistant working at least 80 hours per month as a PTA
- Have a 3.0 cumulative GPA in PTA education and C or above in foundational science courses
- 1 letter of recommendation from a current employer
- Resume including proof of current license to practice
Applicants who are currently in the CUW BSRS program and applying to the Bridge DPT program must also have:
- C or above in foundational science courses; 3.0 GPA in foundational sciences in BSRS program
- 3.0 cumulative in the BSRS program
- Create an account
- The “Academic Program'' will be Bridge BSRS - Physical Therapy.
- Fill out the form and submit your online undergraduate application.
Learning Outcome Data
*Graduation rate according to the formula in the Annual Accreditation Report
** The two year average first time pass rate for our program is 100%
***Licensure examination pass rate consistent with the information published by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy
****Employment rate: % of graduates who were employed as PT’s or PTA’s within 6 months of passing the licensure examination
Graduation Year | Graduation Rate * | First Time Pass Rate ** | Ultimate Pass Rate*** | Employment Rate **** | Number of Applicants | Number of Students per Cohort | Average Cumulative GPA of Accepted Students | Average Science GPA of Accepted Students | Number of Concordia Undergraduates in Cohort |
2009 | 95.8% | 100% | 100% | 76 | 24 | 3.30 | 3.31 | 6 | |
2010 | 79.2% | 100% | 100% | 84 | 24 | 3.49 | 3.37 | 7 | |
2011 | 91.7% | 100% | 100% | 97 | 24 | 3.49 | 3.49 | 3 | |
2012 | 90.9% | 100% | 100% | 148 | 24 | 3.56 | 3.46 | 10 | |
2013 | 95.8% | 100% | 100% | 185 | 24 | 3.59 | 3.57 | 4 | |
2014 | 91.7% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 203 | 26 | 3.59 | 3.58 | 2 |
2015 | 89.3% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 385 | 28 | 3.60 | 3.52 | 18 |
2016 | 96% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 423 | 28 | 3.66 | 3.51 | 3 |
2017 | 100% | 96% | 96% | 100% | 500 | 28 | 3.75 | 3.73 | 11 |
2018 | 96% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 457 | 28 | 3.74 | 3.64 | 5 |
2019 | 96% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 288 | 28 | 3.62 | 3.64 | 5 |
2020 | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 274 | 26 | 3.7 | 3.61 | 3 |
2021 | 96% | 95.7% | 100% | 100% | 358 | 28 | 3.79 | 3.72 | 16 |
2022 | 96% | 92% | 96% | 100% | 166 | 28 | 3.77 | 3.64 | 7 |
2023 | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | 156 | 28 | 3.74 | 3.74 | 10 |
2024 | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | 130 | 27 | 3.56 | 3.39 | 3 |
2025 | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | 123 | 25 | 3.70 | 3.52 | 9 |
Average Outcomes
- Our average two year graduation rate for the classes for 2020 and 2021 is 96%
- Our average two year licensure pass rate for the classes of 2020 and 2021 is 98%
- Our average two year employment rate for the classes of 2020 and 2021 is 100%
Goal 1: Demonstrate the knowledge and skills for entry-level practice of physical therapy as a generalist clinician
- Demonstrate knowledge and skills for safe clinical practice
- Possess entry-level knowledge and skills for patient/client management (screening, examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, plan of care, interventions (procedural & educational), documentation, outcomes assessment)
- Value and use evidence in practice
Goal 2: Embody the multiple facets of professionalism, within the clinic.
- Follow legal and ethical standards of clinical practice
- Demonstrate professional behavior
- Demonstrate effective written, oral, and non-verbal communication skills
- Demonstrate cultural sensitivity in clinical practice
Goal 3: Value service to the church, community, and profession.
- Report a belief in service as a professional duty
- Students/graduates will report participation in service activities
Goal 4: Demonstrate knowledge and skills for adapting to changes in healthcare delivery systems.
- Possess the ability to direct and supervise PT support personnel
- Possess the ability to manage financial resources (reimbursement; equipment/supplies; productivity; time management; environmental resources) within the clinic
- Be prepared to serve as a consultant within the healthcare system
- Possess the knowledge and skills related to developing prevention/health promotion programs
- Possess the knowledge and skills related to the management of care delivery (i.e., providing patient care through direct access; collaboration with other health care practitioners; participation in case management)
- Value the role of the PT in social responsibility & advocacy
Class |
2022 |
2023, 2024,2025 |
Semester Tuition |
$17,160 |
$18,300 |
Yearly Tuition |
$34,320 |
$36,600 |
Yearly Fees |
$330 |
$338 |
Additional expenses (textbooks, clinical education travel, etc.) |
$3,418 |
$3,709 |
Total Cost |
$107,368 |
$114,523 |
Click here to download the student financial fact sheet.
Please note, students will benefit from a locked tuition rate for all three years of study.