The Bachelor of Science in Biology to Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Early Assurance Pathway is structured to allow students to complete 3.5 years of undergraduate study in Biology, followed by 2.5 years in the DPT program. This pathway provides an accelerated yet comprehensive educational experience, ensuring that students are well-prepared for careers in physical therapy.

Students complete 3.5 years of undergraduate coursework in Biology at Lewis University. The first semester of DPT coursework counts towards both the completion of the Biology degree (reverse transfer) and the start of the doctoral program. Students earn their Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology after completing the first semester in the DPT program. The DPT program continues to completion in 2.5 years, following a cohort model with one cohort admitted each Spring term.

To be eligible for the Early Assurance Program (EAP), students must meet the following academic criteria:

• Achieve a minimum composite score of 26 on the ACT or 1240 on the SAT.
• Alternative pathway:
  • Students with a composite score of 24-25 on the ACT or 1170 to <1240 on the SAT may also qualify but will be required to take the GRE with a minimum composite score of 150 on both the Verbal Reasoning (VR) and Quantitative Reasoning (QR) sections.

The Application Process

Applications that are completed by the deadline will be considered by Lewis University for admission. From the applicant pool, Lewis will select a group of competitive candidates to be interviewed at the Romeoville campus. Only students who are interviewed can be offered admission. Admission decisions are made solely by Lewis University.

See Doctor of Physical Therapy for additional information.