University of the Sciences in Philadelphia

Fifty-one students from University of the Sciences' Physical Therapy Program have joined the ranks of professionals following the Fourth Annual White Coat Ceremony on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2009. The ceremony is an annual rite of passage for fourth-year students in the University’s six-year PT program.

White coat gifting at the ceremony was presented by Physical Therapy Department Chair Dr. Marc Campolo, and Associate Dean of Samson College of Health Sciences and Executive Director of Institutional Assessment Dr. Peter Miller. Dr. Ivan J. Mulligan, president of the Pennsylvania Physical Therapy Association, delivered the keynote address.

Donning their white coats, the students recited the Oath of a Physical Therapist, a gesture to reinforce their commitment to working with patients compassionately and to enhancing their health and well-being.

The students are joining the healthcare system at a critical juncture. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment of physical therapists is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through 2016. As the life expectancy for Americans lengthens, the need for physical therapists to care for them will increase.

The students, who have begun the clinical education portion of their education, will receive hands-on training through part-time and full-time clinical education experiences.