What’s the difference between an MPT and a DPT?

6 February 2026

What’s the difference between the MPT and DPT?
Australia is a world-leader in physiotherapy degrees, offering both Master of Physiotherapy (MPT) and Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT) programs.

physiotherapist
Learn more about Australian physiotherapy degrees

The main difference is really the length of the program. The Master of Physiotherapy is typically a 4-semester program delivered over 2 years.

Conversely, the Doctor of Physiotherapy is a longer, 6-semester program generally delivered over 3 years. The exception to this is the Bond University Doctor of Physiotherapy, in which you can complete all 6 semesters in just 2 years of more intensive study.

The two extra semesters of a DPT provide a bit more flexibility in terms of electives, including a research component and there is often an additional clinical placement.

So, the DPT isn’t like a PhD?
Unlike the MPT, the DPT will include a research component, although it’s not a PhD. Think of it more like an extended master’s program; however, if you’re thinking about going on to complete a PhD, the research component will give you the leverage to follow that path!

What if you want to practice as a physical therapist in the United States?
If you’re planning to practice as a physical therapist in the United States, OzTREKK recommends going with the DPT.

Generally it’s the only physio degree option to be recognized across all states, although you should always check with your desired state’s physical therapy licensing board to ensure your degree of choice will satisfy their licensing requirements.

To hear more about this, watch the video below.

Australian Physiotherapy Degrees

Think you might be interested in studying physiotherapy? Check out the Australian physiotherapy programs below to see if any of them might be a good fit for you. We’ve made a note to show which universities require studies in musculoskeletal anatomy.

Would you like to know more about studying physiotherapy? Contact OzTREKK’s rehab sciences admissions team at rehabsci@oztrekk.com for more info. We’ll walk you through the whole process!

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