Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) in Pakistan – Complete Guide 2025
What is DPT?
DPT stands for Doctor of Physical Therapy, a professional 5-year degree in the healthcare sector. It is considered one of the most reputable programs after MBBS and BDS. DPT focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients suffering from:
- Musculoskeletal disorders
- Neurological issues
- Cardio-pulmonary conditions
- Integumentary problems
- Pain management and psychosomatic conditions
A graduate of DPT in Pakistan is officially recognized as a Doctor of Physical Therapy (Physiotherapist) and plays a key role in modern healthcare systems.
Duration of DPT in Pakistan
- Total Duration: 5 Years (10 semesters)
- Additional Requirement: 1 Year House Job (Clinical Internship)
- Structure: 2 semesters per year as per HEC guidelines
- Eligibility Start: After completion of FSc (Pre-Medical) or equivalent
Unlike MBBS, MDCAT is not mandatory for DPT, but many universities conduct their own entry tests or interviews.
Eligibility Criteria for DPT Admissions 2025
- Minimum 60% marks in FSc (Pre-Medical) or equivalent
- Admission is merit-based, and top universities often require above 90% aggregate
- Example: King Edward Medical University’s DPT merit usually starts at 95% and closes around 89%
Learning Outcomes of DPT Graduates
Students completing the DPT program are expected to:
- Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of basic and clinical sciences
- Relate theoretical knowledge to practical clinical applications
- Show strong diagnostic, evaluative, and treatment skills
- Exhibit leadership, communication, and management skills within healthcare teams
- Contribute to patient care and community health with professionalism
Career Opportunities after DPT in Pakistan
DPT is a rapidly growing profession with diverse career paths in Pakistan and abroad. After graduation, students can pursue careers in:
Hospitals & Clinics – Working alongside doctors and surgeons in rehabilitation units
Corporate Sector – Providing employee health, fitness, and workplace wellness programs
Education – Serving as lecturers, researchers, or clinical instructors in universities
Sports & Fitness – Specializing in sports injury rehabilitation and fitness training
Armed Forces – Working in military rehabilitation centers
Special Schools – Supporting differently-abled children in mobility and physical development
Private Practice – Running personal physiotherapy clinics
DPT Frequently Asked Questions / DPT FAQs
Q: What is DPT full form?
Ans: DPT stand for Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Q: Who should study DPT?
Ans: Students whose have passed out degree in FSc/A-level/equivalent major with Biology, Physics and Chemistry subjects and are also interested in life sciences, believe in diversity of profession, wish a professional career that is more than a job and also desire to make a healthy change in people’s life should adopt this profession. There is huge scope of DPT in Pakistan and abroad.
Q: What is minimum eligibility criteria for DPT?
Ans: Minimum DPT eligibility criteria in Pakistan in various institutes is FSc pre medical or equivalent marks with 60% according to DPT Institutional Admission Policy of respective institutes.
Q: Is DPT recognized by PMC in Pakistan?
Ans: No, as PMC is only autonomous body for MBBS & BDS Degree Programs.
Q: Do DPT graduates deals patients?
Ans: Yes, because physiotherapists are basically Rehabilitation Professionals whose working is also directly with patients ensuring their recovery after surgery, injury, fracture or other acquired disabilities.
Q: Are DPT graduates called doctor?
Ans: As DPT stand for Doctor of physical Therapy and according to the National Curriculum Revision Committee (NCRC) for DPT by Higher Education Commission (HEC), they are likely to be called as “Doctor of Physical Therapy”. They will use complete title and they cannot call themselves as Doctor alone.
Q: Can a doctor of physical therapy practice In Pakistan privately?
Ans: Yes, a Doctor of Physical Therapy can practice independently.
Q: Is house job mandatory for DPT in Pakistan?
Ans: Yes, House Job is also compulsory after the completion of 5 years degree because they directly deal patients in their defined domain.
Q: What is the scope of DPT in Pakistan?
Ans: They have a bright future in Pakistan. In short, the aim of Physiotherapy to change and improve the movement, physical independence and quality of life.
Q: Is MDCAT necessary for DPT?
Ans: No, it is not necessary.
Here you will get complete information regarding DPT(Doctor of Physical Therapy) admission, eligibility criteria, duration and objectives of DPT in Pakistan.