Department of Physical Therapy

Contact Information

Address:
100 Technology Drive
Bridgeside Point 1, Suite 210
Pittsburgh, PA  15219

Phone: 412-383-6630

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The Department of Physical Therapy is interested in your feedback. If you have a comment, suggestion or concern that you would like to share with us, please use this anonymous form to submit. The Department will thoroughly review this information as part of its quality improvement process.

Overview

Message from the Interim Chair

Welcome to the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of Pittsburgh!

We are thrilled to have you exploring one of the most prestigious physical therapy programs in the U.S. Whether you are seeking entry-level professional training, advanced clinical expertise, or doctoral research opportunities, Pitt offers endless pathways to grow, learn and lead in the field of physical therapy.

Our outstanding faculty includes numerous clinical specialists, NIH-funded investigators and eight Catherine Worthingham Fellows of the APTA who are passionate about mentoring the next generation of PT leaders.

At Pitt, you’ll also benefit from our strong partnerships with the world-class School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, including its renowned Rehabilitation Institue. These collaborations provide unparalleled learning experiences and open doors to unique clinical and research opportunities.

As you explore our website, we hope you can envision yourself as part of our vibrant community and see how these resources can shape your journey at Pitt. We can’t wait to help you take the next step toward your future in physical therapy!

Sara R. Piva, PT, PhD, FAPTA

What does it take to be consistently ranked the best physical therapy program in the nation in a highly competitive field?

It takes a legacy of excellence, spanning more than 90 years. It takes the best and brightest students willing to tackle any challenge. It takes faculty who are mentors, clinical specialists, NIH-funded investigators and Catherine Worthingham Fellows of the APTA. And it takes clinical placements that allow students hands-on experience in renowned medical and rehabilitation centers, such as University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and its Centers for Rehab Services.

The success of Pitt’s PT program is fueled by a passion for moving the field forward, advancing research and creating evidence-based practice.

Mission

Our mission is to provide an unparalleled supportive environment, free of barriers and disparities that will:

  1. Develop diverse entry-level and post-professional physical therapists who achieve excellent and equitable clinical outcomes through exceptional training. Our graduates will integrate the current best evidence with sound scientific and clinical reasoning principles to inform screening, examination, classification/diagnosis, and intervention approaches that also consider the impact of the social determinants of health in the care of clients/patients.
  2. Encourage a high degree of professionalism and ethical behavior. We do this by teaching and modeling:
    • the APTA Code of Ethics, Core Values, Code of Professional Conduct, and diversity, equity and inclusion;
    • professionalism in all interactions with patients/clients and families, professional peers, other health care and academic colleagues, and members of their community;
    • principles of life-long learning and professional development to ensure ongoing improvement and adherence to the principles of evidence-based and biologically plausible physical therapy practice.
  3. Advance the scientific knowledge in physical therapy and rehabilitation science. We do this by:
    • participating in basic science, clinical and health services research;
    • collaborating with investigators in other University departments, national and international partners outside the University, and key stakeholders in the community;
    • disseminating our research and scholarly activities through publications in peer-reviewed journals, and presentations at regional, national and international scientific conferences.
  4. ​Promote engagement in advocacy of patients/clients, communities and the physical therapy profession. We carry out this part of our mission by encouraging, training and supporting our faculty and students to
    • be consultants to and partners with other professional, academic and community groups;
    • advocate for all patients to third party payers, researchers and health policy makers;
    • advocate for the profession to third party payers, researchers and health policy makers.

Vision Statement

The vision for the Department of Physical Therapy is to drive transformational change in the field of physical therapy by developing a diverse, competent, compassionate and ethical workforce through equitable and inclusive physical therapy education, research and community service.

Values Statement

While pursuing our Mission and Vision, the Program will act in accordance with its stated values. Our values are adopted from the APTA Core Values and those of our clinical partner, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC).

  • Accountability: Active acceptance of responsibility for the diverse roles, obligations, and actions of the physical therapist including self-regulation and other behaviors that positively influence patient/client outcomes, the profession and the health needs of society.
  • Altruism: The primary regard for or devotion to the interest of patients/clients, thus assuming the fiduciary responsibility of placing the needs of the patient/client ahead of the physical therapist’s self-interest.
  • Compassion and Caring: Compassion is the desire to identify with or sense something of another’s experience; a precursor to caring. Caring is the concern, empathy, and consideration for the needs and values of others.
  • Dignity and Respect: We treat all individuals with dignity and respect
  • Excellence: Excellence is physical therapy practice that consistently uses current knowledge and theory while understanding personal limits, integrates judgment and the patient/client perspective, challenges mediocrity, and works toward development of new knowledge.
  • Innovation: We think creatively and build excellence into everything we do.
  • Integrity: Steadfast adherence to high ethical principles or professional standards; truthfulness, fairness, doing what you say you will do, and “speaking forth” about why you do what you do.
  • Quality and Safety: We create a safe environment where quality is our guiding principle
  • Professional Duty: The commitment to meeting one’s obligations to provide effective physical therapy services to individual patients/clients, to serve the profession, and to positively influence the health of society.
  • Social Responsibility: The promotion of a mutual trust between the profession and the larger public that necessitates responding to societal needs for health and wellness.

Programs

Physical Therapy (DPT)

Hybrid, On-campus

Duration:

2 years and 3 months
(7 terms, including 2 summer terms)

Program Start:

Fall term (August)

Application Closes:

October 1, 2025

Physical Therapy and Bioengineering (DPT/PhD)

On-campus

Duration:

Minimum of 6 years
(19 terms minimum, including some summer terms)

Program Start:

Fall term (August)
Starting with curriculum of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program

Application Closes:

Priority Deadline: November 3, 2025
Final Deadline: December 1, 2025

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Physical Therapy, Post-Professional (MS)

On-campus

Duration:

1 year
(3 terms, including 1 summer term)

Program Start:

Fall term (August)

Application Closes:

May 1, 2026

 

Rehabilitation Science (PhD)

On-campus

Duration:

4-5 years

Program Start:

Fall term (August)

Application Closes:

May 1, 2026

Programs for Undergraduates

Advancing Diversity in Physical Therapy (ADaPT)

Advancing Diversity in Physical Therapy, or ADaPT@Pitt, is a program designed to engage, recruit and advance diverse students into graduate physical therapy education. ADaPT@Pitt provides structured opportunities for students to explore the profession of physical therapy and receive pre-admission support through the application process.

Activities include panel discussions with physical therapists and DPT students, professional and peer social events and informational sessions for completing your graduate school application.

Click here to join our mailing list and be the first to learn about our events! Students who are interested in an immersive experience are encouraged to apply to our Summer Scholar Experience.

Summer Scholar Experience

This week-long immersive event will provide 10 scholars with an opportunity to stay on campus and participate in hands-on workshops. This experience funds meals and room and board and will include activities like clinical observation, crafting a personal statement, tips on completing a quality application, and social events with both peer and professional mentors. Students will get to interact with faculty from the highly-ranked Physical Therapy program in the country and increase the competitiveness of their future application to any DPT program.

Join our mailing list and follow us on Instagram to make sure you don’t miss announcements!

Application Process

Participants best suited for this experience are rising sophomores, juniors and seniors from:

  • underrepresented racial and ethnic populations
  • individuals from geographically underrepresented areas
  • first generation students

All students are required to complete the online application and submit a brief personal statement.

The personal statement should indicate how you will benefit from the Summer Scholar Experience.  The submission should be less than 500 words and limited to a 1 page, single-paced word document.

*Note: You cannot save the application. The submission must be completed when you submit, otherwise, you will be required to start over.

More Information:

Contact Us

Click here to join our mailing list and follow us on Instagram to be the first to learn about our events!

Email the ADaPT team at PittADaPT@groups.pitt.edu with any questions related to the program.

Division 1 Sports Physical Therapy Fellowship

The University of Pittsburgh Division 1 Sports Physical Therapy Fellowship is a post-professional planned learning experience designed to promote the fellow’s capability to provide physical therapy services in a Division 1 collegiate sports setting and didactic instruction to physical therapy students.

The program is a 12-month appointment that will start in January. The fellow’s responsibilities include completing a didactic curriculum, providing physical therapy services to University of Pittsburgh student athletes, and assisting in the instruction of our school’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students. Fellows will work directly in the athletic training room as part of the sports medicine team. This will include practice/game coverage, rehabilitation of injuries, and working alongside athletic trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, physicians, sports performance team members and dietitians.

Fellows will serve as teaching assistants in the musculoskeletal curriculum of our DPT program’s on-campus and hybrid options. Responsibilities include assisting in lab and teaching lectures and lab sessions.

Admissions Criteria

  • Licensed physical therapist
  • Current license as an EMT, and/or current certification as an Emergency Medical Responder
  • Possesses/Eligible to Possess Board-Certification in Sports or Orthopaedic Physical Therapy OR graduated from an accredited Sports or Orthopaedic Residency program
  • Certified Athletic Trainer preferred, but not required
  • Current license in CPR
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Letter of intention describing why you are applying to a Division 1 Sports Fellowship
  • Three letters of recommendation, all from licensed physical therapists speaking to your ability to successfully function in a competitive athletic environment, in a rigorous didactic program, and in assisting to teach in a top-ranked physical therapy program

Applications will be accepted from May 1, 2025, to July 31, 2025. Please submit your full application at https://rfptcas.liaisoncas.com/applicant-ux/#/login

For more information, please contact the Program Director Rick Joreitz at rej13@pitt.edu.

Mission

The mission of the University of Pittsburgh Division 1 Sports Physical Therapy Fellowship is to provide an advanced education to sports physical therapists in division 1 sports in order to develop skills and experience in the management of athletes participating in division 1 sports. The sports physical therapist will enhance their clinical knowledge and skills to enhance the recovery and return to sport activity in the population served.  The program is dedicated to growth, strategic initiative, and continuous improvement.

Curriculum

  • Module 1: Upper Extremity
    • Shoulder
    • Elbow, wrist and hand
  • Module 2: Lower Extremity
    • Foot and ankle
    • Knee
    • Hip
  • Module 3: Spine
    • Lumbopelvic
    • Cervicothoracic
  • Module 4: Sports Medicine

Outcomes

  • 2024: Fellow has graduated and is employed as the Minor League Physical Therapist within the Cleveland Guardians organization
  • 2023: Fellow has graduated and is employed as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of Pittsburgh.

Scholarships

There are a number of merit-based scholarship opportunities for students through the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences as well as through the Department of Physical Therapy. These opportunities become available to students in the fall term once the program has officially begun.

Click here to view information on SHRS Scholarship opportunities.

The scholarship opportunities listed below are those that are typically available through the Department of Physical Therapy. Scholarship amounts can range from $500-$4,000. The amount awarded for each scholarship varies from year to year and is dependent upon the number of students who apply.

Alice Chagnot Oulette Endowed Student Scholarship

Established in 1991 by Alice Chagnot Oulette, a 1947 D.T. Watson graduate; this scholarship is awarded to a DPT student who is enrolled full time, is in good academic standing, and has financial need. This scholarship can be awarded to one or more students.

Centers for Rehab Services Leadership Scholarship

Established by Centers for Rehab Services, a partner of UPMC; this scholarship is awarded to an entry-level physical therapy student(s) demonstrating leadership by way of involvement with APTA, the Foundation for Physical Therapy, or other roles within the profession. This award is made at the discretion of the Chairman of the Department of Physical Therapy.

David Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine Center/Joseph M. David Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2005 by Joseph David, a 1988 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Physical Therapy; this scholarship is awarded to an entry-level physical therapy student in the final year of study who demonstrates financial need; good academic standing (minimum of 3.0); and exceptional clinical competence. An application, essay, and possible interview are required.

Dorothy Bradley Brown Endowed Student Scholarship

Established in 1990 by Dorothy Bradley Brown, a 1941 graduate of D.T Watson; this scholarship is awarded to a DPT student who is enrolled full time, is in good academic standing, and has financial need. This scholarship can be awarded to one or more students.

D.T. Watson Alumni Scholarship

​Established by the alumni and friends of the D.T. Watson School of Physiatrists, Division of Physical Therapy, in 1969; this scholarship is awarded to a DPT student who is enrolled full time, is in good academic standing, and has financial need. This scholarship can be awarded to more than one student.

Pat Croce Endowed Student Scholarship

Established in 1991 by Pasquale “Pat” Croce, a 1977 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Physical Therapy; this scholarship is awarded to full time DPT student in the first year of study who has completed a minimum of 20 credits of professional study in good academic standing and has financial need. It may be awarded to one or more students.

Patricia Leahy Memorial Scholarship

Established in 1997 in memory of Patti Leahy, a 1979 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Physical Therapy; this scholarship is awarded to a well rounded DPT student who has a special interest in neurology and neurologic physical therapy. The recipient should also reflect Patti’s love of family, friends, and social life.

Paul and Judy Rockar Endowed Student Scholarship

Established in 2005 by Paul (and Judy) Rockar, a 1981 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh’s Advanced Master’s orthopaedic and sports physical therapy program; this scholarship is awarded to a 2nd year DPT student who is enrolled full time and who is in good academic standing. This student must demonstrate a commitment to professional development, leadership, and lifelong learning.

Pearl C. Mann Scholarship Fund in Physical Therapy

Established in 1997 by Pearl C. Mann, a 1945 graduate of D.T. Watson; this scholarship is awarded based on outstanding academic achievement and financial need. The student must be enrolled full-time in the DPT program and they must be a U.S citizen.

Jessie Wright Scholarship

This is the highest honor awarded by the Faculty in the Department of Physical Therapy and is given to a student who displays superior achievement & potential of becoming an outstanding clinician. This award is based on the unanimous decision of the Faculty

Mary Behling Browne Physical Therapy Scholarship

Established by 1963 D.T. Watson graduate Mary Behling Browne, awarded to 2nd or 3rd year DPT students with demonstrated financial need.

Mary K. Daly-Crum Student Award in Physical Therapy

Established by Mary K. (PT Class of ’80) and Arthur Crum, awarded to DPT students with preference given to out-of-state students.

Community Engagement

The Department of Physical Therapy is proud of its community partnerships with the SHRS Wellness Pavilion at the University of Pittsburgh Community Engagement Center in Homewood and the Birmingham Free Clinic, and looks forward to continuing to serve alongside these organizations in helping to meet the needs of the greater Pittsburgh community.

Watch our video on DPT in the Community!

 

Pitt DPT students are committed to community engagement nationwide, playing important roles in enhancing health and well-being of communities:

  • In Pittsburgh, they support older adult fitness classes at senior high-rise buildings in low-income neighborhoods, bringing accessible, safe physical activity for our more vulnerable community members.
  • In 2023, nearly 50 DPT students and faculty provided fitness screenings to hundreds of older adult athletes at the National Senior Games.
  • Students have led dynamic presentations at youth career exploration events nationally, raising awareness of the PT profession among students from groups historically underrepresented in health science careers.
  • Students educate the public on the benefits of physical therapy and the importance of physical activity at community events, block parties and health fairs, supporting the health and wellbeing of community members of all ages.

Pitt PT is committed to bringing awareness of the physical therapy profession to undergraduate students interested in the health sciences. The Advancing Diversity in Physical Therapy, or ADaPT@Pitt, program is designed to engage, recruit and advance diverse students into graduate physical therapy education. The week-long immersive event provides 10 scholars with an opportunity to stay on campus and participate in activities such as panel discussions with physical therapists and DPT students, professional and peer social events and informational sessions for completing their graduate school application.

Research

Our research is recognized nationally and internationally, and receives extramural support from prestigious agencies including the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI), the Department of Defense (DoD) and several foundations such as the Foundation for Physical Therapy, the National Parkinson’s Foundation and the Arthritis Foundation. Our team of investigators have state-of-the-art laboratories and collaborate with many leading researchers within the University of Pittsburgh and across and outside the of the U.S. Witness our team’s scholarly productivity by viewing our publications. Our faculty serve on a number of research review panels and as editors and reviewers for over 20 prominent journals. Faculty also routinely serve on scientific committees of professional organizations such as the American Physical Therapy Association, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery and American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine. Our department collaborates with other high-level research institutions offering career development awards for Rehabilitation Science and is committed to training future researchers who share our passion.

The research in our Department focuses on optimizing the quality of life for individuals with mobility deficits and improving our health systems. Our studies investigate the effectiveness of physical therapy-related interventions in patients with musculoskeletal and neuromuscular disorders throughout the lifespan. We also lead health services research on management of chronic conditions and delivery of value-based care. The reputation of our research spans over three decades and has significantly contributed to advancing the practice of physical therapy. Our research continues to change paradigms in the management of low back pain, knee osteoarthritis, vestibular disorders, sport-related injuries, mobility and balance in older adults and neuromuscular diseases.

Research Areas

  • Health disparities 
  • Cost-effectiveness research 
  • Knee osteoarthritis 
  • Total knee replacement surgery 

Active Research Labs and Projects

Collaborating Centers

The department collaborates with other research centers to find comprehensive solutions to physical therapy problems and help advance PT practice to benefit the patients of tomorrow.

People

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Michele Agostinelli

Clinical Faculty

 mra62@pitt.edu
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Bryan Albright

Executive Assistant to the Chair

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Jonathan Andino

Adjunct Professor

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Erin Angelini

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Rebecca Arrington

Clinical Education Program Manager

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Anna Ashbaugh

Adjunct Faculty

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Molly Bachmann

Adjunct Faculty

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Alison Bank

Research Coordinator

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Cynthia Barros

Staff Physical Therapist

 cyb15@pitt.edu
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Reivian Berrios Barillas

Associate Professor

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Haleigh Biondo

Senior Finance Administrator

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Christopher Bise

Assistant Professor

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Jeremiah Blankenship

Adjunct Faculty

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Darcy Bonaventura

Adjunct Faculty

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Kelly Bossola

Clinical Faculty, Adjunct Instructor

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Allyn Bove

Assistant Professor

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Jennifer Brach

Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs and Development, Professor

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Adjunct Faculty

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Kathleen Brandfass

Adjunct Instructor

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Lisa Braughler

Adjunct Faculty

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Amy Brown

Director of Admissions for the Physician Assistant Studies Hybrid Program, Assistant Professor

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Adjunct Faculty

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Adjunct Faculty

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Adjunct Faculty

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Brian Caricato

Clinical Faculty, Adjunct Instructor

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Adjunct Faculty

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Adjunct Faculty

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Adjunct Faculty

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Wei-Neng Chuang

Assistant Professor, Director of the SHRS Anatomy Laboratory

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Adjunct Faculty

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Adjunct Faculty

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Adjunct Faculty

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Caitlyn Crawford

Assistant Professor

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Lauren Curatolo

Adjunct Faculty

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Megan Dalzell

Research Coordinator

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Adjunct Faculty

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Trevor Delaney

Adjunct Faculty

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Anthony Delitto

Associate Provost of Digital Education, Professor and Former Dean

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William DiLeonardo

Adjunct Faculty

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Erin Dufort

Adjunct Faculty

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Pamela Dunlap

Assistant Professor

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Emily Earnest

Adjunct Faculty

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Keri Tkatch Eastburn

Adjunct Faculty

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Jasmine Edwards

Assistant Professor

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Adjunct Faculty

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Alexa Epstein

Adjunct Faculty

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Tim Eshelman

Division 1 Sports Physical Therapy Fellow

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Joseph Everhart

Adjunct Faculty

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Alex Fails

Associate Scholar, PhD Student

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Lauren Farver

Adjunct Faculty

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Sebastian Fearon

Adjunct Faculty

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Jacob Fine

Assistant Professor

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Ashley Firm

Director of Student and Alumni Engagement, Director of Student Affairs for the Physician Assistant Studies Hybrid Program and Associate Professor

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G. Kelley Fitzgerald

Emeritus Faculty

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Jenni Fleckenstein

Adjunct Faculty

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Damon Formaini

Adjunct Faculty

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Jennifer Forrester

Adjunct Faculty

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Lisa Franz

Adjunct Faculty

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Janet Freburger

Professor

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Shilpa Gaikwad

Associate Professor

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Adjunct Faculty

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Michael Gans

Adjunct Faculty

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Adjunct Faculty

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Adam Gaupp

Research Coordinator

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Alexandra Gil

Associate Professor

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Rachel Gilbert

Adjunct Faculty

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Adjunct Faculty

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Ruth Hallas

Adjunct Faculty

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Tara Hankin

SHRS Associate Dean of Clinical Partnerships; Dept. of Physical Therapy Interim Vice Chair for Administration, Vice Chair of Post Professional Education and Assistant Professor

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Regan Harrell

Assistant Professor

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Heather Henry

Adjunct Faculty

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Tyler Ho

Adjunct Faculty

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Kirsten Hogg

Assistant Professor

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Victoria Hornyak

Associate Professor

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Cameron Hui

Adjunct Faculty

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Frank Imbarlina

Adjunct Faculty

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James Irrgang

Senior Advisor, Professor

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Erin Isanhart

Adjunct Faculty

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Janet Jackson-Coty

Director of Clinical Education for the Doctor of Physical Therapy Hybrid Option, Assistant Professor

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George Janusz

Adjunct Faculty

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Richard Joreitz

Assistant Professor

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Gardenia Juarez

PhD Student

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M. Kathleen Kelly

Associate Dean for Academic Outreach and Advising, Associate Professor

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Samannaaz Khoja

Research Assistant Professor

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Brooke Klatt

Assistant Professor

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Kara Kobal

Director of the Doctor of Physical Therapy On-Campus Option, Associate Professor

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Jodi Krause

Adjunct Faculty

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Lauren Lagana

Human Resources and Operations Manager

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Nancy Landgraff

Adjunct Faculty

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Erin Lehman

Adjunct Faculty

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Stephanie Lenk

Adjunct Faculty

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Lindsay Lewis

Adjunct Faculty

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Stacey Leyenaar

Adjunct Faculty

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Thomas Lotus

Adjunct Faculty

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Mark Malacarne

Clinical Education Coordinator, Assistant Professor

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Cierra Maloney

Adjunct Faculty

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Chelsea Manetta

Research Physical Therapist

 cjm294@pitt.edu
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Nanami Mano

Adjunct Faculty

 nam102@pitt.edu
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Taylor Marcoly

Adjunct Faculty

 tmm190@pitt.edu
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Jessica Marengo

Adjunct Faculty

 jmm561@pitt.edu
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Thomas Masters

Adjunct Faculty

 tdm52@pitt.edu
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Pratibha Maurya-Singh

Graduate Student Researcher

 prm197@pitt.edu
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Kara May

Adjunct Faculty

 ksm90@pitt.edu
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Aaron McCullough

Adjunct Faculty

 apm48@pitt.edu
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Jennifer McMahon

Adjunct Faculty

 jam337@pitt.edu
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Debora Miller

Emeritus Faculty

 dlm27@pitt.edu
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Shelby Miller

Administrative Assistant, Clinical Research Assistant

 shm291@pitt.edu
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Janet Mitchell

Adjunct Faculty

 jem259@pitt.edu
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Claire Moldovan

Adjunct Faculty

 ceh113@pitt.edu
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Elizabeth Mormer

PhD Student

 elm260@pitt.edu
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Anne Mucha

Adjunct Instructor

 muchaa@upmc.edu
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Michelle Mueller

Adjunct Faculty

 mam867@pitt.edu
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Thomas Murt

Adjunct Faculty

 tjm188@pitt.edu
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Elizabeth Narducci

Assistant Professor

 eln41@pitt.edu
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Jessica Neiss

Adjunct Faculty

 jcn36@pitt.edu
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Christy Neltner

Adjunct Faculty

 cad104@pitt.edu
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Tracie Nguyen

Adjunct Faculty

 tan43@pitt.edu
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Kim Nixon-Cave

Director of the Doctor of Physical Therapy Hybrid Option, Professor

 kin15@pitt.edu
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Natalie Novak

Adjunct Faculty

 nan70@pitt.edu
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Joshua Oskin

Adjunct Faculty

 jao121@pitt.edu
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Sarah Ostop

Adjunct Faculty

 seo64@pitt.edu
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Debra Parrotta

Department Administrator

 dsp18@pitt.edu
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Charity Patterson

Professor, Director of the SHRS Data Center

 cgp22@pitt.edu
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Whitney Patton

Adjunct Faculty

 wep25@pitt.edu
Will Pitt

Associate Professor, Director of Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy Curriculum

will.pitt@pitt.edu
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Sara Piva

Dept. of Physical Therapy Interim Chair, Director of the Physical Therapy Clinical and Translational Research Center and Professor

 spiva@pitt.edu
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Adam Popchak

Associate Professor

 ajp64@pitt.edu
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Brad Profitt

Adjunct Faculty

 brp106@pitt.edu
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Kristin Ressel

LeaRRn Project Manager

 ker136@pitt.edu
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Jennifer Ritter

Adjunct Faculty

 jer138@pitt.edu
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Qadeerah Robinson

Student Services Coordinator

 qar5@pitt.edu
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Jordan Rohaus

Adjunct Faculty

 jor81@pitt.edu
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Juliane Russell

Adjunct Faculty

 jrm271@pitt.edu
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Clarice Rutledge

Post-Professional Education Administrator

 cdr47@pitt.edu
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Tiffany Sabo

Adjunct Faculty

 tls142@pitt.edu
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Anthoni Sanks

Adjunct Faculty

 cas438@pitt.edu
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Michelle Sauer

Adjunct Faculty

 mjs430@pitt.edu
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Katherine Schenkemeyer

Adjunct Faculty

 kas644@pitt.edu
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Nathan Schomburg

Adjunct Faculty

 nls44@pitt.edu
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Michael Schubert

Adjunct Faculty

 mcs215@pitt.edu
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Heather Seitz

Adjunct Faculty

 hps19@pitt.edu
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Jason Sharpe

Adjunct Faculty

 jas731@pitt.edu
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Valerie Shuman

Assistant Professor

 valerie.shuman@pitt.edu
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David Skamai

Adjunct Faculty

 djs237@pitt.edu
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Celeste Small

Adjunct Faculty

 cjs316@pitt.edu
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Rebecca Smith

Assistant Professor

 ras515@pitt.edu
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Natalie Sorek

Adjunct Faculty

 nas239@pitt.edu
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Patrick Sparto

Vice Chair for Faculty Affairs in the department, Co-Director of the Doctor of Physical Therapy and Bioengineering (PhD) Program and Professor

 psparto@pitt.edu
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Tracy Spitz

Adjunct Faculty

 tls133@pitt.edu
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Kristyn Sprague

Adjunct Faculty

 kns111@pitt.edu
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Andrew Sprague

Assistant Professor

 asprague@pitt.edu
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Nicholas Stephenson

Adjunct Faculty

 nis182@pitt.edu
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Jennifer Stone

Adjunct Faculty

 jys14@pitt.edu
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Meenakshi Sundaram

Clinical Research Coordinator

 mes395@pitt.edu
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Shuhei Suzuki

Adjunct Faculty

 shuhei.suzuki@pitt.edu
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Kaitlin Sweeney

Research Assistant

 kes250@pitt.edu
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Jackie Thomas

Adjunct Faculty

 jet161@pitt.edu
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Cara Troutman-Enseki

Adjunct Faculty

 clt95@pitt.edu
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Michael Turnwald

Adjunct Faculty

 mwt26@pitt.edu
Jessie Van Swearingen

Professor

 jessievs@pitt.edu
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Catherine Vargo

Adjunct Faculty

 ccv@pitt.edu
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Christopher Venus

Adjunct Faculty

 cav36@pitt.edu
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Bonnie Virag

Assistant Professor, Director of Community Engagement

 bonnie.virag@pitt.edu
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Debra Voss

Research Physical Therapist

 debra.voss@pitt.edu
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Kimberly Welk

Adjunct Faculty

 kag133@pitt.edu
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Madeline Wells

Adjunct Instructor

 mkw85@pitt.edu
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David Wert

Vice Chair of Doctor of Physical Therapy Education, Associate Professor

 dmw29@pitt.edu
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Susan Whitney

Director of the Physical Therapy (MS) Program, Professor

 whitney@pitt.edu
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Ashley Williams

Adjunct Faculty

 anw236@pitt.edu
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Lauren Williams

Adjunct Faculty

 law247@pitt.edu
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David Wortman

Research Physical Therapist

 d.wortman@pitt.edu
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Theresa Wubben

Adjunct Faculty

 tmw71@pitt.edu
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Patti Yakshe

Assistant Director of Academic and Administrative Affairs

 ply10@pitt.edu
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Kelly Yoder-Jones

Adjunct Faculty

 kyj19@pitt.edu
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Hallie Zeleznik

Vice Chair for Clinical Education, Visiting Associate Professor

 haz34@pitt.edu

Student Groups

SHRS Affinity Groups
SHRS Student Advisory Board
Doctor of Physical Therapy Student Service Board
Physical Therapy Graduate Student Association
Interprofessional Studies Student Group

Facilities

Bridgeside Point I 

Located adjacent to one of Pittsburgh’s iconic rivers and a bridge away from the bustling Southside, the Physical Therapy department is housed in the bright and spacious Bridgeside Point.

Features of our space include:

  • Study spots with gorgeous views
  • Updated anatomy lab (more below)
  • Classrooms with floor-to-ceiling windows
  • Dedicated lounge and veranda, just for physical therapy students.

All classes for the DPT on-campus option are held here and the building is open to the on-campus students 24/7 who are looking to gather and study. 

Visit Us!

Prospective students interested in visiting Bridgeside Point I should email ptinfo@shrs.pitt.edu to schedule a tour. 

Anatomy Lab 

Shelving unit housing models of various areas of the body for the study of anatomy.

Our state-of-the-art facilities don’t stop there!

The Anatomy Lab is located in Bridgeside Point and is used by several SHRS departments. The lab can accommodate up to 50 students. The main teaching area of the lab has space for up to 10 donors on downdraft tables.

Four large monitors are set up around the facility to display instructional content or project images during instruction which are captured by the cameras on the ceiling.

Additional space for studying bones and models is available on the other side of the lab. Students can gather around the demonstration table for additional instruction.

Check out the virtual 360° tour of our Anatomy Lab.

The Box Office 

This facility is in the center of the Southside Works which is a hub of restaurants, shopping and activities.

While the building developers maintained the art-deco facade of the old movie theatre box office it use to be, inside is a completely renovated and purpose-built space just for hybrid students. When visiting Pittsburgh for immersions, our students can look forward to:

  • Lounge space
  • Updated lab facilities
  • Stunning river views
  • Access to similar equipment found in Bridgeside Point I

Check out photos and read stories about the Box. 

A group of students stand with a man with a prosthetic left arm and left leg
The Box: From Steel Mill and Art Deco Cinema to the new Home of Pitt Hybrid DPT
READ MORE
A group of 10 students pose for a photo while holding floor mats that say Pitt Physical Therapy
The New Pitt DPT Hybrid Immersion Space is a Box Office Smash
READ MORE

Resources

Current Student Resource Hub

Students can find access to program and school materials in the Current Student Resource Hub. Pitt Passport is required.

Current Students can also find answers to commonly asked questions and connect with valuable resources and contacts. This resource helps students locate academic guidance, professional development, or support for each individual’s wellbeing including things like counseling or study resources.

Continuing Education Unit (CEU) Requests

Approval of Courses for State License Renewal for Physical Therapists

Continuing education requirements are regulated by the state boards of physical therapy. Each state licensing board has its own policies and procedures related to continuing education of its licensees. State boards of physical therapy place the responsibility on licensees to follow rules and regulations related to the practice of physical therapy and maintenance of licensure in their states.

IMPORTANT:  Licensees should verify acceptance of continuing education courses with their state licensing board by reviewing the relevant state practice act and/or administrative code.

As a CAPTE accredited institution, the University of Pittsburgh is a pre-approved provider of continuing education units (CEU) for Physical Therapists.  University of Pittsburgh CEU’s are accepted by most physical therapy state boards without a pre-approval process.  A small number of states require pre-approval directly with the state board, including Pennsylvania.

Requests

In support of partnership with UPMC Rehabilitation Institute (formerly UPMC Centers for Rehab Services) and other clinical partners, the Department of Physical Therapy is willing to co-sponsor and/or approve continuing education units in accordance with the State Board of Physical Therapy.

If you are an employee of UPMC Rehabilitation Institute and/or a pre-approved clinical partner, submit the required documents to complete your request:

The online submission now includes space to upload all required supportive documentation:

  • Course Outline or Agenda
    • You must include the specific time allocated to each activity in minutes (30 min, 60 minutes, etc.)
    • For any submission greater than 2 hours, use this excel template.
  • Course Description
  • Learning Objectives
  • Brief Resume/CV/Biosketch for each instructor.  (Maximum 2 pages per instructor)
  • Sample Certificate

Click here for detailed instructions regarding your submissions.  Please note, if you do not provide the required documentation, your request will be denied and returned to you for re-submission.

If you are not pre-approved by the University of Pittsburgh, Department of Physical Therapy to request CEU approval, you must email PTCEURequests@pitt.edu before proceeding with your request.