ANGOLA, IND. (WOWO) Trine University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program has been recognized as one of only six programs nationwide, out of more than 250, in which every student passed the national licensure exam on their first attempt during the most recent cycle.
Data from the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy shows Trine’s students had a first-time pass rate of 91% in 2022-2023 and 96% in 2023-2024, before reaching the perfect 100% rate for the 2024-2025 cycle. The average pass rate for all 259 programs nationwide was just over 85%.
Max Baumgartner, PT, Ph.D., director of Trine’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program, said the accomplishment reflects the dedication of students and the expertise of faculty. “Licensure is the gateway to a career in physical therapy, and the fact that our PT students excel in this first step is a strong indicator of the future success they will have in the field,” he said.
Program Details and Partnerships
Located in Trine’s Brooks College of Health Professions (BCHP) in Fort Wayne, Indiana, the Doctor of Physical Therapy program is a three-year, full-time curriculum designed to prepare students for clinical practice and licensure. The program partners with local health providers, including Parkview Health and Lutheran Health Network, offering clinical education during the first two years and full-time internships in the final year.
The 110,000-square-foot BCHP facility features state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories. In partnership with the Parkview Mirro Center, the program also provides an innovative Simulated Patient Care Center (SimCenter), which includes mock surgery and emergency room suites, as well as exam and patient rooms, offering students hands-on experience in a controlled environment.
The program also offers a 3+3 option, allowing undergraduate students to count their first year of graduate coursework toward both undergraduate and graduate degrees. This pathway supports students pursuing advanced health science careers and graduate school opportunities.
Trine University’s achievement positions its Doctor of Physical Therapy program among the top programs nationwide and demonstrates a commitment to high-quality training and professional preparation for future physical therapists.
