FAQ
Do you accept online classes for DPT prerequisites?
We do accept online classes; however, under some circumstances. For example, we accept science classes that have been taken on-line, but the labs must be in-person, face to face. NO on-line labs. ** Due to COVID-19 online labs will be accepted thru the Summer 2022.
Do you require a statement of purpose?
Yes, you must submit a statement of purpose, this is in the PTCAS application under the specific questions to be complete. You should address your academic and professional goals and why you are seeking instruction in the DPT program. The narrative should also include a description of your expectations of the program, as well as any related qualifications that you possess, including talents, skills (e.g., computer literacy, etc.), collegiate and professional accomplishments, community activities, and any other substantial personal achievements. This is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your writing skills. Statement of Purpose MUST be limited to 4500 characters.
How many reference letters do you require?
We require two reference letters. One reference letter should be from a licensed physical therapist who has observed you during your 100 hours. The second is a general reference, preferably from an upper level science course instructor/professor. Letters from PTAs can be accepted as a general reference only. There are no exceptions to this rule. Reference letters are submitted to PTCAS.
Where can I find the reference form?
This form is located within the PTCAS application and should be submitted to PTCAS.
Where should I submit my transcripts?
All transcripts are submitted to PTCAS. No transcripts need to be sent to ECU for the application process.
How GRE scores used?
Beginning with the 2021 application cycle, GRE scores are no longer required to apply to the ECU DPT program.
How much is tuition and fees?
The Tuition Fee Schedule for the Department of Physical Therapy can be found on our website under “DPT Program”. This information can be found at the Admissions site. Under the heading Main Campus select the semester you will be attending, then scroll down to Graduate School.
How often do you accept students per year?
We only accept students one time per year. Students who are accepted start the 11 week summer session, which starts in May.
How many students apply to the DPT program each year?
On average we have 220 students to apply each year.
How many students do you accept each year?
We accept 30 students each year to begin in the 11 week summer session in May.
What are the average overall GPA and prerequisite GPA of students who are admitted?
Average GPAs for each class over the last several years can be found on our website is found on the homepage under the Quick Links – DPT Program Outcomes.
Do you accept Organic Chemistry for a prerequisite for Chemistry?
No, we do not.
Do you accept Genetics for a prerequisite for Biology?
No, we do not.
Do you accept Psychology or exercise science statistics courses for the pre-requisite statistics course?
We accept psychology statistics courses and exercise science statistics courses.
How do my observation hours need to be listed?
Observation hours need to be documented on the form within the PTCAS application. These hours should be recorded as of the date you apply. This needs to be a numerical number. We will not accept 2 semesters or still observing. You need to have a minimum of 100 hours of observation completed at the time you apply. This form can be found within the PTCAS application.
**Due to COVID-19
We realize shadowing opportunities may be decreased during the pandemic time. Potential applicants should strive to complete > 100 hours in various settings to the best of their ability. These hours can be in progress and/or planned when applications are submitted.
How do I know if a prerequisite class will be counted at ECU as the equivalent course?
On the ECU website, click on PiratePort (under Quick Links on the right hand side), under Academics, click on Course Equivalencies, then search for the State and then College or University and course number. If it is not listed on these pages, then the course will need to be reviewed or looked up on the internet to determine if you will receive credit for that course. The ECU DPT website also has information regarding pre-requisite course numbers for NC and Out of State universities under Students/Prospective Student.
Please email ECUDPT@ecu.edu with your questions. Please include the college, course number and syllabus of prerequisite in question.
Do you give preference to in-state students?
Yes, in-state students are given preference over out-of-state students. We accept one to two out-of-state students each academic year out of 30 overall students.
Do you prefer students have a specific undergraduate degree or does one degree weigh more heavily than another?
No, we do not have a preferred undergraduate degree. Typically, students coming from a health-related degree (ie. Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, Nutrition Science, Biology) tend to have a smoother transition.
What is the policy for grade replacements?
You may grade replace one class per content area without penalty. This means one Biology, one Chemistry, one Physics, and one Math, Psychology, or Statistics can be grade replaced. Any additional course will be averaged for your grade.
Can I take classes at a community college?
We accept credits from any regionally accredited school in the US. Taking community college courses will not diminish an applicant’s chances of being accepted to our program.
Is there a time limit for prerequisites?
There are no time limits for prerequisite courses; however, it is advised that you audit a course that was taken more than 10 years ago.
Do you have information sessions I can attend?
Yes, we usually have one information session monthly for our program. On our webpage select Students/Prospective Student/Information Session. This will give you the dates and times that the sessions are being offered. **
Due to COVID-19 Until further notice, all information sessions will be conducted virtually via Webex.
How many observation hours do I need to qualify for admission?
A minimum of 100 hours is required. Provide evidence of exposure to the practice of physical therapy. This activity must be supervised by a licensed physical therapist. A variety of clinical experiences is suggested including: inpatient, out-patient, rehabilitation, long-term care, geriatrics, and pediatrics. This experience must be documented.
***We realize shadowing opportunities may be decreased during the pandemic time. Potential applicants should strive to complete > 100 hours in various settings to the best of their ability. These hours can be in progress and/or planned when applications are submitted.
Does the program require an onsite interview for acceptance?
Yes. Face to Face Interview will be scheduled.
Does the program require a background check prior to admission?
The ECU DPT program does not require a background check prior to admission. However, most clinical sites require background checks for students to participate in clinical education; therefore, one will be required during your time in the program.
Military personnel state of residency
Military personnel stationed in NC or dependents of NC personnel stationed in NC may apply for the military waiver benefit by submitting an application and supporting documentation. This benefit does not award the student in-state status but it does allow them military status and tuition at the in-state rate.
Who do I contact about questions for the DPT program?
You can email ECUDPT@ecu.edu with any questions. If you are emailing concerning a prerequisite question please included college, course number and syllabus.