Health Information
Health Insurance
Baylor University requires all degree-seeking students enrolled in the Graduate School and Garland School of Social Work (including online students) to maintain health insurance. This includes students enrolled in Baylor's Doctor of Physical Therapy program. For more information regarding health insurance opportunities, visit the Graduate Student Health Insurance website.
Health Requirements
Prior to entering the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, students must submit the following documentation:
*All documentation must be submitted in English. If original documents are provided in a language other than English, a translated copy must be submitted as well.
- Provide proof of a satisfactory and current physical examination
- Provide proof of current BLS certification
- Provide proof of the following Immunizations
- Hepatitis B vaccine series (3 doses) OR immunity by titer
- MMR vaccine (2 doses) OR immunity by titer
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, & Pertussis (Tdap) vaccine within the last 10 years
- Varicella vaccine series (2 doses) OR immunity by titer
Prior to entering the clinical phase (year 2) of the program, students must update their immunization and health certificate and provide proof of:
- Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), QuantiFeron-Gold Blood Test (QFT), or Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA).
- Influenza vaccine (required annually to be given during influenza season: October through May)
*Please note that individual clinical facilities may have specific health requirements (drug screening, additional vaccines, and/or additional testing). It will be the student’s responsibility to make sure these are met.
For more information about immunization of Health Care Workers, click here.
COVID-19 Vaccination
Our Baylor DPT program does not require COVID vaccination. However, large numbers of health care facilities are requiring a COVID vaccination. We strongly encourage vaccination for all students prior to entering the program to protect the health and safety of students, volunteers, and faculty during lab immersions, and patients while on clinical experiences.
Vaccination Exemptions
Baylor DPT does not allow exemptions based on religious beliefs or matter of conscience for vaccination requirements.
Students may request a medical exemption for certain vaccinations through the Baylor University Health Center.
Please keep in mind:
- While Baylor DPT may approve your medical exemption request, clinical education sites operate under their own independent policies designed to ensure patient safety and quality care. These sites are not obligated to honor Baylor’s exemption and will require compliance with their specific requirements.
- If a clinic does not accept your medical exemption, it could limit your placement options and delay your progress toward graduation.
