Meet the director

Welcome to the DPT Program at Messiah University

Messiah University is excited to offer a Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, designed to equip students with entry-level skills for autonomous practice in physical therapy from a faith-based perspective. Physical therapy, as a profession, meets health care needs by optimizing movement to improve overall health. We look forward to graduating ethical, compassionate, autonomous doctors of physical therapy who are competent to practice in diverse settings. Graduates will be life-long learners informed by evidence-based practice who exemplify the values of Messiah University and the physical therapy profession.

Courses are offered at Messiah University at Winding Hill throughout the week and include classroom and clinical education experiences to attain knowledge and gain real-world practice opportunities. Students will master hands-on skills through early application of integrated clinical experiences. This approach maximizes learning, critical thinking and clinical decision-making—all essential components in the development of entry-level practitioners. Students will learn to manage patients and clients with musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiopulmonary and integumentary dysfunction, integrated with interprofessional experiences to assist in meeting the needs of the ever-changing health care environment. The curriculum also guides students' consideration of the legal/ethical aspects of patient care as well as issues of communication, health promotion, policy, and practice management. Students will also participate in research courses and learn to integrate evidence-based practice throughout the curriculum.

We are eager to begin classes in the newly renovated Winding Hill location with state-of-the-art classrooms and labs equipped with the latest technology for optimal teaching, learning and research opportunities. Messiah University is one of excellence and students and alumni have shared their testimonies of education excellence that is rooted in Christian faith. We continue this tradition as we offer this exciting new graduate program.

For more information, I invite you to one of our scheduled open house information sessions, or please feel free to contact me directly with any questions you may have about our program. I look forward to speaking with you about the opportunity that awaits you here at Messiah University.

Karl Bergmann, PT, ScD
Director, Doctor of Physical Therapy Program