School of Science
Physical Therapy
Empowering movement. Advancing health.
The Department of Physical Therapy prepares students to become compassionate, practice-ready professionals who change lives every day. Through rigorous coursework, state-of-the-art laboratory experiences, and rich clinical partnerships, you will learn to promote lifelong wellness in diverse communities. Grounded in scientific inquiry, leadership, and service, the program equips you with the skills, confidence, and professional values to excel in a dynamic, in-demand healthcare profession.
Degree Programs
Select a degree program to take a look at the curriculum, course requirements, and application process.
Recognizing Hampton University's Next Generation of Physical Therapists
The Hampton University Department of Physical Therapy recognized 12 Doctor of Physical Therapy Candidates at The Annual DPT White Coat Ceremony on September 11, 2026. This milestone marked the beginning of the Candidates’ third year of graduate study and their transition to clinical practice.
Speakers & Honored Guests
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Dr. Caroline Kingori, Ph.D., MPH
Vice Provost for Academic Affairs
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Dr. Elizabeth Locke, PT, MS, Ph.D.
Chair, Department of Physical Therapy
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Rev. Dr. Debra L. Haggins, Ph.D., D.Min.
Dean, School of Religion and University Chaplain
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Dr. ShaQuandra Lawrence, PT, DPT
Keynote Speaker and HUDPT Alumna
VIP Special Guests
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Dominion Physical Therapy and Associates
Dr. Allen R. Jones, Jr., President
Join our Interest Meetings!
Want to learn more about the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Hampton University? Join our online interest meetings!
- 4th Wednesday of each month, 6:00pm ET
- August to November
- Join Online (Zoom)
Why Choose Us?
We are located on the beautiful and historical campus of Hampton University on the Hampton River. We offer small class sizes with a diverse student and faculty population.
More Info: Dr. Kristin D. Rice, Admissions Coordinator
(kristin.rice@hamptonu.edu)
(kristin.rice@hamptonu.edu)
News Spotlight
- Physical Therapy News
As part of the Prosthetics and Orthotics course in the HUDPT program curriculum, the HUDPT2 Class of 2027 visited Reach Orthotics and Prosthetic Services in Newport News, VA. Mr. Greg...
Innovating care, reducing disparities.
Faculty lead research focuses on real-world impact—both for patients and for the profession. Students have the opportunity to collaborate on projects that advance physical therapy education, develop innovative rehabilitative strategies to address health disparities, and examine how physical therapy services influence healthcare quality, access, and cost.
Educating Physical Therapists Committed to Healthier Communities Everywhere
Developing Purpose-Driven Physical Therapists for a Changing World
Total Number of DPT Graduates from 1998-2026
0
The Physical Therapy Program at Hampton University is grounded in a clear purpose: preparing the next generation of physical therapists to lead with excellence, integrity, and compassion. Through a rigorous curriculum and a mission-driven learning environment, students are equipped to make a meaningful impact in their profession and in the communities they serve.
The Physical Therapy Program is dedicated to educating skilled, compassionate leaders who are prepared to practice autonomously and ethically in a dynamic healthcare landscape. Students learn in a multicultural environment that reflects the diversity of the nation and the patients they will serve, fostering cultural humility, respect, and strong professional behaviors essential to effective practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the department located?
The Physical Therapy department is located in Phenix Hall on the second floor. The physical address is 100 East Queen Street, Phenix Hall Suite 216, Hampton, VA 23666.
What is the history of the program?
The Physical Therapy program was started in 1998 under the direction of Dr. Marilys G. Randolph.
I’m interested in being a physical therapist. How do I apply to the program?
The HU DPT program utilizes the PTCAS system and the application cycle closes annually on January 15th. More information about how to apply and requirements can be found on the degree program page for Physical Therapy, DPT.
Can I apply if I’m still taking prerequisites?
Prerequisite courses in progress must be completed by June 30th. An updated transcript should be sent to PTCAS.
I’ve applied to the program. When will I get a response?
Our application cycle closes on January 15th. Students will receive notification of a complete application packet and that their files are under review in January. Notification of acceptance or denial will be received from February through April. Our class is typically filled by the end of April.
How many students do you accept?
The DPT program accepts 18 students.
I just received my acceptance letter to the HU DPT program. What is next?
Congratulations! Please make sure that you send in the forms requested by the department. Next steps will include applying for financial aid, which may include completing your FAFSA and contacting student loan lenders if needed. You will also need to investigate housing options. In July, you will receive a notice from the department with information about registration, supplies needed for the fall, and the textbook list. You will be assigned a student mentor from the 2nd year DPT cohort.
What housing options are available?
The University has an apartment complex, the Hampton Harbor Apartments, with two bedrooms and two baths. These apartments are designed for sharing (separate phone lines). Contact the Office of Off-Campus Housing at 757-727-6746 for more information.
I’m interested in your clinical education requirements. When do students start their clinical experiences or rotations?
Students in the HU DPT programs begin clinical education experiences/rotations after successful completion of the first year of curriculum. The program has five clinical education experiences/rotations for a total of 40 weeks of clinical education. Dr. Pamela Tucker serves as our Director of Clinical Education.
Our Team Members
Elizabeth Locke, PT, MS, Ph.D.
Chairperson, Associate Professor
Areas of Expertise: Strategic foresight for curriculum improvement, organizational effectiveness in accredited DPT programs, cardiovascular risk factors and health disparities.
Ayodele Akinremi, PT, MSc, MHS, Ph.D., DSL
Associate Professor
Areas of Expertise: Clinical research, epidemiology, population health research, cardiometabolic risk factors and health disparities, strategic foresight and system improvement.
Kaitlin Allen, B.S.
Office Administrator
Marlon Jant, PT, DPT
Assistant Professor
Areas of Expertise: Telehealth in sports and agribusiness, teaching innovation, college student health.
Charlene Jensen, PT, DPT, MMHPE
Associated Faculty, Board Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist
S. Christopher Owens, PT, ScD
Associate Professor, Program Coordinator
Areas of Expertise: Telehealth in sports and agribusiness, teaching innovation, college student health
Yolanda Rainey, PT, MS, DPT, ACEEAA
Associate Professor, Assessment Facilitator
Areas of Expertise: Balance, falls, fall prevention in older adults, use of high fidelity human patient simulators in teaching and learning, health and wellness in community-based older adults.
Kristin Rice, PT, DPT, DHSc, CEEAA
Assistant Professor, Admissions and Recruitment Coordinator
Areas of Expertise: Public health, healthcare workforce development, geriatric healthcare disparities and aging in place.
Pamela Tucker, PT, DPT, MS
Assistant Professor, Director of Clinical Education
Areas of Expertise: Spinal height preservation. DPT program admissions and retention tools.
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