Whats the difference between the t-DPT and the PhD?
Both degrees involve mastering a body of knowledge in the particular field of study. The DPT degree (conferred at completion of a professional PT program or a postprofessional transition program) is considered a clinical or applied doctorate similar to those for medicine (MD), dentistry (DDS), education (EdD), clinical psychology (PsyD), optometry (OD), and podiatry (DPM). The t-DPT degree signifies that the learner will apply the newly acquired knowledge – most likely in a clinical setting. The PhD is an academic degree that reflects, in addition to the mastering of a body of knowledge in the particular field of study, completion of an original scholarly work that adds to the body of knowledge in the discipline.
