What if becoming a Doctor of Physical Therapy as a PTA didn’t mean starting over?

On this episode of PTA+, Katie Sutton chats with Erin Faraclas, Program Director at New England Tech, about their PTA → DPT Bridge Program — designed specifically for working PTAs who want to advance their careers.

We cover:

• ✅ The difference between bridge and traditional DPT programs
• ✅ Why hybrid education (synchronous + asynchronous) works for busy PTAs
• ✅ How workforce shortages are shaping PT education
• ✅ Who this program is best suited for
• ✅ Why PTAs should ask the right questions before making the leap

Chapters / Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro: Why PTAs are asking about the DPT path

01:28 – Meet Erin Forekleas, Program Director at New England Tech

02:57 – What makes the PTA → DPT Bridge program unique

06:24 – The PTA identity: Why some don’t pursue the DPT (and why some do)

14:03 – Breaking down career pathways for PTAs

17:29 – The bachelor’s degree advantage

26:58 – Addressing workforce shortages in physical therapy

30:30 – 27-month timeline explained

33:10 – Why hybrid learning works for working PTAs

41:37 – “Second chances” and exploring new specialties

44:25 – Hybrid learning: synchronous vs asynchronous

49:06 – Curriculum breakdown for PTA → DPT students

53:00 – Addressing concerns about new programs

58:07 – Final advice: Ask the right questions, find the right fit

01:04:23 – Closing thoughts: Just hit the start button