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Non-Degree Bridge Program Courses for foreign-trained Physical Therapists

St. Scholastica’s Non-Degree Bridge Program is tailored to help foreign-trained physical therapists meet U.S. licensing requirements. Offered alongside our transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) program, it addresses educational content gaps to meet FCCPT physical therapy standards and credentialing needs.

Advance Toward U.S. Licensure in Physical Therapy/Physiotherapy

Are you a foreign-trained physical therapist/physiotherapist looking to learn more about the culture of the PT field in the United States? Learn as you work toward becoming a practicing physical therapist in the U.S.

St. Scholastica offers 100% asynchronous online courses to help foreign-trained physical therapists meet the Foreign Credentialing Commission on Physical Therapy (FCCPT) competency requirements and prepare for U.S. licensure. Through the Non-Degree Bridge Program, you can address educational deficits between your international degree and U.S. standards. You’ll also be challenged to deepen your clinical expertise and encouraged to collaborate and share insights within a supportive, values-based Benedictine learning environment.

The Non-Degree Bridge Program offers flexible, individualized learning paths for foreign-trained physical therapists preparing for U.S. licensure. Courses are designed to support physical therapy credentialing through FCCPT requirements. Contact graduate admissions to determine which courses best align with your international physical therapy license goals.

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Program Details

Tuition

Tuition: $832/credit*

* Tuition rates are for the 2025-26 academic year. Additional fees and costs for course materials may apply. Total program cost and completion time varies depending on transfer credits and individual program plans. Tuition rates are subject to change. View 2024-25 rates.

Textbooks

Almost all textbooks are provided free online. The Differential Screening course textbook is the only exception.

Curriculum

Available Courses

PTH 8960 Examination and Evaluation for the International Therapist

Designed for the international physio- or physical therapist, a focus on the acquisition and application of fundamental examination, differential screening and consultation applications in physical therapy practice. Students apply their knowledge of tests and measures for the musculoskeletal, neurologic, cardiopulmonary, integumentary and wellness in workplace systems. (3 credits; 15 weeks)

PTH 8965 Integumentary Evaluation, Management and Debridement for International Therapists

To introduce the management and assessment of clients with integumentary disorders. Factors affecting wound repair will be presented. Tests and measures to assess skin integrity and tools for managing integumentary disorders will be discussed. (1 credit; 8 weeks)

PTH 8970: Professional Topics for the Internationally Trained Physical Therapist

Intended for the internationally trained physical therapist to explore various professional topics within the Physical Therapy profession in the United States. It is designed to enhance clinical decision-making with regards to supervision of support staff, delegation, documentation, and discharge and discontinuation. (1 credit; 8 weeks)

Students are required to demonstrate English fluency in both written and verbal communication.

Admission Information

Application Requirements

Free online application form
Copy of credential evaluation

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