A Day in the Virtual Classroom
While the hybrid model offers students some flexibility in when and how they do their studying, Baylor DPT students are full-time students in every sense and will reach their fullest potential when committed to a structured, daily routine. Students can expect to put in up to 55 hours of work per week in class time, assignments and independent study.
“The virtual classroom is exciting and engaging. There's no shortage of questions to answer or interactive polls/quizzes. There are also breakout rooms for small group discussion.” —Dylan Lee (Class of 2025)
The didactic portion of the curriculum is divided into asynchronous and synchronous work:
- Asynchronous work is all done independently. It includes prerecorded lectures, readings, and independent assignments. Students typically focus on working through asynchronous materials Saturday-Monday in preparation for the week’s synchronous sessions.
Synchronous sessions are mandatory and take place live in our virtual classroom. During "synch" sessions, Baylor DPT faculty bring the materials studied independently to life and help students apply concepts through interactive polling, case studies, and vignettes. Students begin to learn and practice hands-on skills associated with the content. Synchronous sessions generally take place Monday through Thursday at 12:00pm and 2:00pm (CST), and last approximately 90 minutes each. Exams are typically on Fridays, unless it is a shortened week due to lab or holidays.
Sample Week in the Life of a Baylor DPT Student:
| Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Synchronous Schedule | 12:00pm, 2:00pm | 12:00pm, 2:00pm | 12:00pm, 2:00pm | 12:00pm, 2:00pm | 10:00am-1:00pm (Exams) | ||
| Daily Study* | 4-6 hours | 8 hours | 8 hours | 8 hours | 8 hours | 4-6 hours | 6-8 hours |
| Sleep | 8 hours | 8 hours | 8 hours | 8 hours | 8 hours | 8 hours | 8 hours |
| Personal Time | 10-12 hours | 6-8 hours | 6-8 hours | 6-8 hours | 6-8 hours | 10-12 hours | 6-8 hours |
*Estimated daily study hours account for both synchronous sessions and independent asynchronous work.
Can I continue to work while enrolled in the Baylor DPT program?
This is a common question! Baylor DPT students are cautioned not to hold outside employment while completing the program, as they are expected to give their time and attention to the full-time academic demands of the curriculum, travel requirements for onsite lab immersions, and the completion of three clinical rotations during the second half of the program.
While limited part-time employment (up to 8-12 hours/week) is maintained by a small percentage of students, we strongly encourage all students to avoid working during the first trimester to help facilitate a strong start in the program. After the first trimester, if students still want or need to work, they will be better able to create a work schedule that won't negatively impact their education. Full-time employment is not compatible with requirements for the program. Any student who is employed at any point in the program should notify their Faculty Coach and ensure they have alternate means for financial support should they need to end employment to provide more focus on their academic requirements.
