Doctor of Physical Therapy program earns full accreditation
Hanover College’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program has received full accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
Attainment of full accreditation from CAPTE is a significant accomplishment for the program. Such accreditation serves as an external validation of academic excellence and ensures the provision of high-quality education to students. Graduates from CAPTE-accredited programs benefit from enhanced employment opportunities as licensed professionals and their degree holds substantial value in the job market.
“Full accreditation of our DPT program brings to fruition the vision and hard work of Hanover’s faculty, staff and trustees,” said Hanover President Lake Lambert. “I am excited for the College, but I am even more excited about the impact Hanover DPT graduates will make in the lives of their patients and in the communities where they will serve.”
Started in 1977, CAPTE is the only independent accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and Council for Higher Education Accreditation. The entity grants specialized accreditation status to qualified entry-level education programs for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants. CAPTE currently accredits more than 250 physical therapist education programs and 350 physical therapist assistant education programs in the U.S.
The program represents Hanover’s first doctoral-level academic curriculum since 1915. The hybrid program, which previously received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission in 2020, welcomed it first cohort in June 2021. The group will graduate May 27, 2023, as part of the College’s 190th Commencement.
“This important milestone for the DPT program would not have been achieved without the support of countless individuals associated with Hanover College,” said Gregory Kline, Hanover’s program director. “The DPT faculty and staff have worked tirelessly to support the growth of the program in hopes of producing the next generation of innovative entry-level physical therapists. It has truly been amazing watching the program grow in alignment with the mission and vision of Hanover College.”
Hanover’s evidence-based course of study, developed by the College’s faculty, combines the latest research, personal clinical experience and individualized mentoring to help students reach their goals as licensed physical therapists. The hybrid academic program is delivered through a partnership with Evidence In Motion (EIM), a leading provider of online and hybrid health care education.
“Hanover is making an impact in communities across the country through this innovative, quality DPT program that is preparing the next generation of clinicians in areas that need it most,” said Pradeep Khandelwal, EIM’s chief executive officer. “This is a great achievement and testament to Hanover’s status as an emerging leader in graduate health care education, as well as a great reminder of the power of collaboration and partnership between higher education institutions and businesses.”
