Why Students Choose Hybrid Accelerated DPT Programs: 4 Student Stories

Many factors influence a student's choice of Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, but one common thread unites them: a desire to make a difference in people's lives. In this article, we speak to four students about their reasons for choosing a hybrid accelerated DPT program and what their experiences were like.

But what exactly is a hybrid accelerated program? These programs offer a unique blend of academic rigor, speed, and accessibility. They are especially appealing to those seeking elements of traditional on-campus learning and online education to create an efficient and flexible academic experience.

As we delve into the stories of these four students, you'll discover how their individual journeys reflect the growing appeal of hybrid accelerated education.

About the DPT Students

The four students we interviewed come from diverse geographic locations, backgrounds and experiences:

• Dane, a DPT graduate from Hanover College in Indiana, previously worked as a physical therapy assistant (PTA).
• Kennedy, a DPT candidate at Hawaii Pacific University (HPU), entered the program directly after completing undergraduate degrees in dance and health and human sciences.
• Cody, also a DPT candidate at HPU, is a Hawaii native who returned to the state after obtaining his undergraduate degree.
• Nicholas, a DPT candidate at Bowling Green State University (BGSU) in Ohio, worked as a PTA in California before entering the program.

Student Experiences in Hybrid Accelerated DPT Programs

Dane: Balancing Career Advancement and Family Life

Dane's journey to a DPT program was rooted in his experience as a PTA. "I wanted to better myself—to better the patients I was going to treat, both now and in the future," he explained. This desire for professional growth, coupled with aspirations for improved financial stability, drove his decision.

As a married professional with established roots in Evansville, Indiana, Dane faced the challenge of advancing his education without uprooting his life. Hanover College's hybrid accelerated program provided the perfect solution.

"When I found out Hanover College was opening a DPT program, I thought, 'This is perfect,'" Dane said. "It's close to home, and I can stay in Evansville."

The program's structure allowed Dane to complete his degree efficiently, traveling to campus for lab immersions while maintaining his home base. Upon graduation, he returned to his former clinic, now in the elevated role of DPT.

Kennedy: Seeking Flexibility and Diversity in Education

For Kennedy, the journey to becoming a DPT began immediately after completing her undergraduate studies. Her search for the right program was expansive, considering options from her home state of Texas to California.

"I knew I wanted a program that would offer a unique and flexible learning experience," Kennedy said. She discovered HPU's hybrid accelerated DPT program through her younger sibling, an HPU undergraduate.

Kennedy attended virtual meet-and-greets to learn more about the program. "These sessions helped me visualize how HPU's hybrid accelerated program could work for my lifestyle," she explained.

The program's flexibility became a key selling point for Kennedy. "I appreciate that I can watch our asynchronous lectures on my own time and do what works best for me," she said.

Beyond flexibility, Kennedy found unexpected value in the program's diverse cohort. "A huge plus of a hybrid program is that my cohort is spread throughout the country," she enthused. "I'm meeting people I never would have had the opportunity to meet otherwise. It's amazing to study with someone in Alaska while I'm in Texas."

Cody: Serving the Community Through Education

Cody's motivation to pursue a DPT degree was deeply rooted in his desire to serve his Hawaiian community. Through volunteering, he identified a critical need.

"I slowly learned that there aren't many physical therapists here, and there are so many people who need therapy," Cody explained. "People even fly from different islands like Micronesia and Samoa to get proper treatment. I wanted to be part of that change and help out."

The efficiency of HPU's hybrid accelerated program appealed to Cody. "The faster, the better," he said. "In a hybrid program, you cut out a lot of unnecessary stuff. You have schedule-flexibility and still get a lot done, if not more, compared to a regular program."

Initially, Cody had concerns about how online learning would translate to hands-on skills. His worries were quickly dispelled during in-person labs. "In our first musculoskeletal course, many PTs said, 'Wow, you guys are better than most first-years,'" he recounted. "That was really reassuring to hear."

Cody also noted that instructors often teach advanced practices from their specialties, providing students with knowledge beyond basic first-year material.

Nicholas: Overcoming Geographic and Financial Barriers

Nicholas, like Dane, was a married PTA looking to advance his career. However, his situation presented unique challenges. "One of my biggest insecurities about applying to this program was that I'm from California," Nicholas admitted.

The financial implications of attending a DPT program in California were daunting. BGSU's hybrid accelerated program offered a potential solution, but Nicholas needed to ensure it was the right fit both culturally and financially.

To allay his concerns, Nicholas traveled to BGSU for program orientation. "Orientation was great," he said. "They introduced us to our cohort and made it a fun experience." This visit helped Nicholas feel more confident in his decision.

Nicholas's plan involved taking online classes from California and traveling to BGSU for in-person labs. The cost savings were significant. "Even with travel, stays and all the food I had to buy there, I'm still paying almost 40% to 50% less," he explained.

Beyond the financial benefits, Nicholas found a supportive community in his cohort. "There hasn't been a single time when someone asked for help and didn't receive it," he said. "We're always willing to help each other out, and it's a beautiful thing."

Advantages and Challenges of Hybrid Accelerated DPT Programs

While hybrid accelerated DPT programs offer numerous benefits, they also come with specific challenges that prospective students should carefully consider.

Advantages

• Greater flexibility and accessibility
• Cost savings on relocation and living expenses
• Faster entry into the workforce
• Exposure to diverse instructors and peers

Challenges

• Demand for high self-discipline and time management
• Potential gaps in hands-on learning experiences
• Not suitable for students who need more face-to-face instruction

Why Hybrid Accelerated DPT Programs Are Worth Considering

While demanding, hybrid accelerated DPT programs offer flexible and credible pathways to meaningful health care careers. These programs save students time, money and resources.

Universities considering launching hybrid accelerated graduate health care programs should choose the right partner. Evidence In Motion (EIM), an experienced health care solutions company, partners with leading universities to power and launch such programs.

EIM offers free consultations to explore how we can help achieve educational goals.