Northern Arizona University’s graduate physical therapy program ranks among the best in the nation, according to U.S.News & World Report’s annual ranking of America’s Best Graduate Schools released today.

NAU is tied with six other universities that rank 16th in the nation. The rankings are based on the results of peer assessment surveys sent to deans, other administrators and faculty at degree programs or schools accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association.

“We are excited by this positive recognition,” said Liz Grobsmith, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. “It’s satisfying to know that the leaders of physical therapy education around the country respect the quality of our program.”

NAU has about 44 graduate students in its program, known for preparing its physical therapists for leadership roles within the health-care system.

“We are pleased with this ranking,” said Mark Cornwall, chair of the Department of Physical Therapy. “The faculty here at NAU is very well known for its accomplishments and that helps garner recognition for the program.”

NAU President John Haeger noted that this ranking is further demonstration of the quality of NAU’s physical therapy program.

“The number of graduates from health-care programs in Arizona is falling far short of demand,” Haeger said. “This is one of several extraordinary programs that we will be growing in the near future to meet the state’s need for health-care professionals.”

For information about the physical therapy program, go to http://jan.ucc.nau.edu/~pt-p/index.php.

For information about the U.S.News & World Report America’s Best Graduate School 2008 edition, go to www.usnews.com.

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