Summer Discovery Program

The Summer Discovery Program (SDP) is designed to expose undergraduate students with a keen interest in physical therapy to the profession and to the Duke DPT experience. This program is for students interested in the profession of physical therapy, especially those from demographic communities that are currently underrepresented among licensed physical therapists.

This is an intensive week that will immerse participants completely in the profession of physical therapy. At the end of this week, participants will have gained exposure to multiple areas in the profession and have the information needed to be more competitive and to more effectively matriculate into Doctor of Physical Therapy programs.

Participants will have access to some of the top faculty in the profession of physical therapy and receive mentorship from current Duke DPT students, faculty, local clinicians, and admission specialists.

Watch highlights from SDP 2024 below. 

Participation in the Duke DPT Summer Discovery Program will provide engaged structured exposure to: 

•       Physical therapy as a profession, including career tracks and specialties
•       Duke DPT course content and learning opportunities
•       Meaningful interactions with current students, faculty, alumni, and staff
•       Mentorship as it relates to the DPT program, application and matriculation process 
•       Continued mentorship after the conclusion of the program

1. Currently be enrolled in an accredited undergraduate institution as a Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, or Senior.
   * Students who have completed their undergraduate degree and/or are enrolled in graduate programs can apply, but SDP will prioritize students currently enrolled as undergraduates.
2. Have an undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
3. Fulfill one or more of the following: 
   • Underrepresented minority
   • First generation to go to college
   • Economically disadvantaged
   • Interested in serving underserved populations