Distance Education Learning

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the tDPT program?
2. How challenging is a distance education degree program at Boston University?
3. Will my diploma say "Distance Education" degree?
4. How is Boston University's tDPT program accredited?
5. How long is the program?
6. How many credits and courses do I take each semester?
7. What kind of assignments can I expect?
8. How much does the program cost?
9. What financial aid options are available?
10. When can I start the program?
11. How much time is required for this program?
12. What are my next steps?

1. What is the tDPT program?
   Boston University's tDPT program is one of the few distance education doctoral programs designed specifically for experienced and working clinicians. The transitional DPT bridges the gap between BS/MS degree entry-level practitioners and the current DPT entry-level graduate. The program offers an opportunity to complement current knowledge and skills with advanced content designed to promote a high level of competence and autonomy. Students are placed in 10 to 15 person cohorts and will progress from one course to the next until graduation.
   
   The tDPT program is in an asynchronous format, meaning there are no set lecture times and students can access the classroom when it is convenient for them while meeting daily and weekly assignment deadlines. However, students must keep pace with their cohort throughout the program.
   
   We currently use Moodle as our learning platform as it is user-friendly and accessible for students on the move. Many additional external links and resources are available, along with hard-copy textbooks that will be shipped to you upon purchase from the BU bookstore.
   
   
2. How challenging is a distance education degree program at Boston University?
   Most of our students find that our distance education courses are more rigorous than any traditional class they have taken. You can be assured that the return on your hard work will be immediate as you apply your learning to the real world.
   
   
3. Will my diploma say "Distance Education" degree?
   No. You will receive the official, traditional diploma of Boston University. You will earn the same degree that is earned by an on-campus student.
   
   
4. How is Boston University's tDPT program accredited?
   The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) does not review or accredit transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy programs. Boston University is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Regional accreditation is the highest level of accreditation any institution in the United States can achieve.


5. How long is the program?
   The coursework can be completed in 16 months. There are eight courses, each lasting approximately seven weeks. You will enroll in six, 3-credit courses and two, 2-credit courses for a total of 22 credits. Your Admissions Advisor will review the enrollment calendar with you, highlighting the unique benefits of each start date.
   
   
6. How many credits and courses do I take each semester?
   You will take two courses per semester, one course during the first seven weeks of the semester, and another during the second seven weeks of the semester.
   
   
7. What kind of assignments can I expect?
   The scope of assignments may vary between reading texts and articles, completing group projects, case studies, written assignments, participating in discussions, analyzing video segments, etc. The program's online learning portal is the center of the learning experience. It is here where you will access course information, communicate with your instructor and fellow learners, take quizzes, post assignments, and view grades, all from the convenience of your home or office.
   
   
8. How much does the program cost?
   See the Tuition & Fees page for the most current information or contact an Admissions Advisor.
   
   
9. What financial aid options are available?
   There are many types of assistance that students can consider:
   
   • Tuition Reimbursement programs with your employer.
   • Federal/public loans through the United States Department of Education.
   • VA benefits – All veterans should be speaking with their local VA office about eligibility.
   • Federal and state agencies have programs that provide tuition assistance and sometimes subsistence to eligible students.
   • Any sources of private funding that students/parents may access. Home equity loans, trusts, savings plans, employment earnings, etc. may be options.
   • Alternative private loans.
   
   To learn more about private and public loans, please contact an Admissions Advisor.
   
   
10. When can I start the program?
    You can enter the program at any one of six entry points within the year: Spring, Summer, or Fall.
    
    
11. How much time is required for this program?
    This program is designed for the working professional who must keep up with the demands of work and home. Most students require around 20 hours of study per week.
    
    
12. What are my next steps?
    If you are interested in applying for the tDPT program, please contact an Admissions Advisor.