Overview
CAPTE and PT education
The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), part of the American Physical Therapy Association, is the recognized accreditor of U.S. physical therapy education. It accredits Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs for physical therapists and physical therapist assistant (PTA) programs. Recognized by USDE and CHEA.
The Gate
CAPTE accreditation and PT licensure
To be licensed as a physical therapist, you must graduate from a CAPTE-accredited DPT program and pass the NPTE (National Physical Therapy Examination), plus your state’s requirements. Physical therapist assistants similarly need a CAPTE-accredited PTA program and the PTA-level NPTE. There is no standard U.S. licensure path through a non-accredited program.
Two Levels
DPT and PTA
- DPT — Doctor of Physical TherapyThe entry-level professional degree for physical therapists; a CAPTE-accredited DPT is required for PT licensure.
- PTA — Physical Therapist AssistantA CAPTE-accredited associate-level PTA program is required to become a licensed or certified physical therapist assistant.
Do It Yourself
Verify a PT program
Go Deeper
Official sources
Questions
Frequently asked questions
- Who accredits physical therapy programs? The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), part of the APTA, which accredits DPT and PTA programs. It is recognized by USDE and CHEA.
- Do I need a CAPTE-accredited program to become a physical therapist? Yes. A Doctor of Physical Therapy from a CAPTE-accredited program is required for licensure, and it makes you eligible for the NPTE.
- What is the NPTE? The National Physical Therapy Examination, the licensing exam for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants, administered by the FSBPT.
- What degree do physical therapists need? The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), the entry-level professional degree, from a CAPTE-accredited program.
- Does CAPTE accredit PTA programs? Yes. Physical therapist assistant (PTA) programs are CAPTE-accredited, and accreditation is required for PTA licensure or certification.
- Is CAPTE recognized by the government? Yes. CAPTE is recognized by both the U.S. Department of Education and CHEA.
- Can I be a PT with a non-accredited degree? No standard licensure path exists through a non-accredited program. CAPTE accreditation is required for licensure eligibility.
- How do I verify a PT program's accreditation? Search the CAPTE accredited-programs directory and confirm licensure steps with your state PT board or the FSBPT.