South College Nashville launches Doctor of Physical Therapy program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 16, 2024

South College will welcome its first Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) cohort to its Nashville campus this fall, expanding healthcare education opportunities in the region. The two-year hybrid DPT program, also available at South College’s Knoxville and Atlanta campuses, offers students a fast-tracked path as they pursue a future in physical therapy through a mix of online coursework and hands-on lab and clinical experiences.

As the country’s first accelerated hybrid DPT model, the program is designed to help students minimize time spent in the classroom while maximizing learning and practical application. Students can complete their degree in two years, reducing the overall cost of education and opening doors to professional opportunities sooner than traditional programs.

“We are thrilled to welcome our first DPT cohort in Nashville and to expand the offering of this innovative program in the region,” said Nick South, president of South College Nashville. “Our hybrid approach gives students from all over the country access to a high-quality physical therapy education, and this launch marks an exciting step forward for both South College and Nashville.”

South College’s DPT program at the Nashville campus has earned Candidate for Accreditation status from the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), allowing the college to begin enrolling students while continuing the process toward full accreditation.

“The first cohort at our Nashville campus is a testament to our commitment to providing modern, accessible healthcare education,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “We are excited to see how this program will benefit both our students and the wider Nashville area, contributing to the region’s growing need for skilled healthcare professionals.”

The DPT program’s curriculum includes key areas such as clinical practice, patient management across all ages and abilities, advanced diagnostics, business management and more. These components prepare graduates for diverse opportunities in physical therapy, equipping them to meet the challenges of the field and serve their communities. Classes for the first Nashville cohort will begin in October 2024.

South College opened its Nashville campus in 2017. The campus is located at 616 Marriott Drive, near Interstate 40, and features classrooms, laboratories and other conveniences for students and faculty, including a Barnes & Noble bookstore, public-facing dental clinic, large student centers and more. The institution offers a variety of programs and concentrations in the areas of dental, business, healthcare, education, legal studies, technology and more.

For more information about South College, visit south.edu.