HPU Doctor of Physical Therapy Program Achieves Full Accreditation

Hawai‘i Pacific University’s (HPU) Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program was granted full accreditation status by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). This major milestone makes HPU the first fully accredited DPT program in Hawai‘i.

"It's truly an exciting time for HPU’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program," said Pradeep Khandelwal, CEO of Evidence In Motion (EIM). "Gaining full accreditation is a pivotal milestone for any university, but HPU's DPT program accreditation will lead to more qualified physical therapists to serve the growing populations of Hawai‘i's islands and beyond."

The journey toward full accreditation commenced in 2021, with CAPTE granting the program Candidate for Accreditation status. Over the past three years, HPU’s DPT program has achieved milestone after milestone, steadily advancing through the accreditation process.

About HPU DPT

HPU’s DPT program is a two-year, accelerated, hybrid program. It blends online learning, which can be accessed from any location, with in-person immersion labs at HPU’s Honolulu campus, providing students with hands-on experience to apply their knowledge. Following this, DPT candidates undertake 32 weeks of full-time clinical experience at diverse sites.

“This achievement reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students, highlighting Hawaiʻi Pacific University’s mission to provide an outstanding physical therapy education that prepares future clinicians to enhance the physical function, mobility, and health of people within their community,” said HPU DPT-Honolulu Program Director, Mary Jane Rapport, PT, DPT, Ph.D., FAPTA.

The program’s inaugural cohort of 93 students is set to complete their education this summer and graduate in December, with a second cohort already underway and the third cohort starting in late-August.

HPU’s Partnership with EIM

“EIM is proud of its partnership with HPU,” said Chief Academic Officer Michael Walker. “Through our continued work together, we are delivering new solutions for today's learners through rigorous and innovative health care education.”

In addition to the DPT program, HPU offers the Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) and Master of Medical Science-Physician Assistant (MMS-PA) degrees, both in the hybrid accelerated format.

Read HPU’s announcement.