DPT-MPH Program

Emory University is excited to offer one of the few DPT-MPH dual degree programs in the country. Through a unique collaboration between the Doctor of Physical Therapy program and the Rollins School of Public Health, students earn the dual degrees in four years rather than the usual five years if the degrees were earned separately.

What is a DPT-MPH degree?

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree is a professional doctorate in physical therapy. The DPT-MPH is a joint degree consisting of both the Doctor of Physical Therapy and Master of Public Health (MPH) degrees. Physical therapy practice has traditionally been seen as rehabilitation or tertiary prevention. In the evolving healthcare environment, physical therapy practice is expanding into primary and secondary prevention activities. As physical therapists’ roles and responsibilities have increased, so have their educational needs and desires. The combined DPT-MPH degree will enable future physical therapists to become leaders in health care policy and impact healthcare and public health in innovative ways.

Admissions

Applicants who are interested in the DPT-MPH dual degree program must apply to and be admitted by both of the programs within the first year of the DPT program or earlier. Please go to Prospective Applicants for additional details on the admissions process.

Academics

Students will spend their first two years in the DPT program. In the third year students will complete the MPH degree. Within the MPH program, students will select a program concentration, such as Behavioral Sciences, Health Policy and Management or Global Health. The DPT degree will be completed in the fourth year.