Programs

Top-Quality Rehabilitation Sciences Education

At the University of the Incarnate Word School of Rehabilitation Sciences, education goes beyond the classroom. Students in our Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) and Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) programs learn through hands-on experiences, meaningful faculty mentorship and real-world clinical opportunities. From their first days in the program, students are encouraged to think critically, work collaboratively and develop the skills needed to make a lasting impact on the individuals and communities they serve.

Community Clinic

One of the most distinctive features of the School of Rehabilitation Sciences is the Community Clinic, which provides no-cost physical and occupational therapy services to eligible community members while creating meaningful learning opportunities for students. The clinic serves individuals age 13 and older who are not eligible for Medicare benefits, including those who are uninsured, underinsured, lack therapy coverage through their health insurance or have exhausted their annual therapy benefits. Care is provided by students under the supervision of faculty clinicians. Beginning in their first semester, students spend approximately 7-8 hours in the clinic  working directly with patients and applying what they learn in the classroom. These experiences help students strengthen their clinical skills, gain confidence and better understand the impact rehabilitation can have on people's lives. 

Programs

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Occupational therapists help people participate in the activities that bring purpose and meaning to their lives. The Doctor of Occupational Therapy program prepares students to understand how physical, cognitive, psychosocial and environmental factors influence health, independence and participation. Through classroom instruction, fieldwork and community engagement, students learn to help individuals overcome challenges and achieve their goals across a wide range of settings and populations.

Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT)

Athletic trainers play a vital role in injury prevention, emergency care, clinical evaluation, treatment and rehabilitation. The Master of Science in Athletic Training program combines rigorous academics with immersive clinical experiences that allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Graduates are prepared to provide evidence-based care and support the health and performance of physically active individuals in a variety of healthcare environments.

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Physical therapists help individuals improve movement, restore function and maintain active, healthy lives. The Doctor of Physical Therapy program emphasizes clinical reasoning, problem-solving and patient-centered care through a curriculum that blends classroom learning with extensive clinical education. Early patient interactions and hands-on experiences help students grow into confident clinicians prepared to succeed in a variety of healthcare settings.

Residency Programs

The School of Rehabilitation Sciences also offers residency opportunities for clinicians seeking advanced specialty training. Through close mentorship, advanced clinical experiences, teaching opportunities and scholarly activities, residents refine their skills and deepen their expertise. Current offerings include the Sports Physical Therapy Residency and Pediatric Physical Therapy Residency, both designed to prepare practitioners for advanced practice and leadership within their specialty areas.

ABPTRFE has granted the University of the Incarnate Word-Sports Residency candidacy status. Candidacy status signifies satisfactory progress toward accreditation. Achieving candidacy status is not an indication that ABPTRFE will grant initial accreditation. Participants who graduate from a program in candidacy status are not deemed to have completed an accredited program.