FUTURE OF ACCREDITATION UPDATES

The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education and the American Board of Physical Therapy Residency and Fellowship Education have begun a multiyear process to merge the two accrediting bodies. CAPTE will retain its name and brand equity through this transition to a single, integrated commission. ABPTRFE will become a program under CAPTE.

This merger aims to enhance the quality of physical therapy education by:

    · Addressing evolving trends in accreditation

    · Reducing the administrative burden for programs by streamlining processes like reporting and site visits

    · Improving educational effectiveness through more consistent application of standards

Beginning in 2027, as commissioner terms expire, positions will be revised, allowing for a gradual alignment of the commission's structure with the new integrated model. Accreditation staff supporting CAPTE and ABPTRFE will play key roles in both the transition and the integrated commission once completed, with no changes in staffing anticipated during or after this period. All full-time employees will remain the same, and staff will be cross-trained in similar functions.

ABPTRFE and CAPTE will provide occasional updates on this page as the transition process occurs.

Important Update on Accreditation Announcement

Future of Accreditation in Physical Therapy: Model for Moving Forward as an Educational Community

APTA Podcast – Accreditation Innovation: The Future of Physical Therapy Education

You can contact CAPTE or ABPTRFE with questions.