Physical Therapy and Public Health
Emory University’s Physical Therapy and Public Health dual-degree program is a four-year, full-time academic path designed for students who want to integrate clinical rehabilitation expertise with public health knowledge to promote wellness and prevent disease on a population level. Offered through Emory’s Division of Physical Therapy and Rollins School of Public Health, the program blends evidence-based physical therapy practice with advanced training in epidemiology, health promotion, health policy, and environmental health. Students are prepared to lead at the intersection of individual patient care and community health intervention.
The curriculum empowers students to assess both the biological and social factors affecting movement and physical function while designing community-based solutions that reduce disparities and improve quality of life. With access to Emory’s world-class clinical and research infrastructure, students learn to critically evaluate public health systems, conduct applied research, and advocate for policies that increase access to rehabilitation services. This interdisciplinary foundation allows graduates to become leaders in healthcare reform, disability advocacy, and chronic disease prevention—bridging the gap between clinical outcomes and population health goals.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Physical Therapy and Public Health
- Degree Type: Master of Public Health
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 03 May 2026
- Location: Emory University, United States
- Field of Study: Public Health
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Physical Therapy Science
- Human Anatomy and Movement Science
- Introduction to Clinical Reasoning
- Principles of Rehabilitation and Biomechanics
- Neuroscience for Physical Therapists
Year 2 – Core Public Health and Clinical Integration
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics
- Health Behavior and Promotion
- Musculoskeletal and Neurological Interventions
- Practicum in Community-Based Rehabilitation
Year 3 – Systems-Based Practice and Public Health Leadership
- Environmental and Occupational Health
- Health Policy and Disability Advocacy
- Chronic Disease and Physical Activity Interventions
- Advanced Clinical Practicum and Interprofessional Care
Year 4 – Capstone and Research Application
- Integrative Learning Experience (ILE) in Public Health
- Clinical Residency or Specialization in Physical Therapy
- Public Health Research Methods and Data Analysis
- Capstone Project in Physical Therapy and Public Health
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Physical Therapy and Public Health program are uniquely positioned to assume influential roles that require both clinical expertise and systems-level public health knowledge. Many work as licensed physical therapists in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient clinics, while also contributing to public health initiatives that address mobility, injury prevention, and chronic disease management. Others take on leadership roles in nonprofit health organizations, community health programs, and government agencies, designing and implementing population-level interventions focused on physical activity, healthy aging, and access to rehabilitative care. Common roles include public health rehabilitation specialist, clinical program director, research associate in physical activity epidemiology, and health policy advisor for disability services. Graduates may also pursue academic careers or doctoral study in public health or rehabilitation sciences. Their ability to analyze health trends, develop preventive strategies, and implement clinical care models makes them vital contributors to multidisciplinary teams that aim to improve long-term functional health and equity across diverse communities.
Why Choose This Program
This dual-degree program is ideal for students who want to expand their clinical impact beyond individual patients and contribute to broader public health systems that support wellness across the lifespan. Emory University offers one of the nation’s most respected physical therapy programs combined with the globally recognized Rollins School of Public Health. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, cultural competence, and real-world application, allowing students to work on pressing health issues alongside experts in rehabilitation and population health. Emory’s location in Atlanta provides access to renowned medical institutions, community health initiatives, and national organizations such as the CDC. With a strong commitment to innovation, research, and community service, this program empowers students to become health leaders who bridge practice and policy to shape a more inclusive and responsive healthcare system—one that recognizes movement, function, and preventive care as central to public well-being.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 404 727 6123
Email: contentedit@emory.edu
Address: University of Emory, 201 Dowman Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
