USD School of Health Sciences Success Spotlight

USD School of Health Sciences Success Spotlight: Adam Ladwig, DPT

Degree: PhD In Health Sciences

Current Position: Assistant Professor, USD Department of Physical Therapy

Even before DPT Adam Ladwig started school to become a physical therapist, he knew that he wanted to eventually teach. Getting offered a position in the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of South Dakota School of Health Sciences was not only a dream come true, but it was also the impetus he needed to take his education to the next level. 

"When I joined the faculty at USD, I knew I needed to up my game," says Langat. "It's not a requirement to have a PhD but it can open doors. It gives you an experience that can translate into being a better teacher."

As the father of four small children (one of whom was born while he was working on his dissertation), Ladwig knew he needed a highly flexible program, but one that would also challenge him and help him hone his skills as a scholar and researcher. The School of Health Sciences PhD in Health Sciences program proved to be the perfect choice.

"Without a doubt, my understanding of research and scholarship improved tremendously," says Ladwig. "But what surprised me the most was the impact that this program had on my leadership skills. I didn't expect those classes to challenge the way I think of myself as a leader but they absolutely did." 

When the pandemic hit in the middle of his program, Ladwig elected to focus his dissertation on adult education through the lens of online learning. He has now published two studies on the subject and has submitted a third for publication.

"The PhD program really helped me realize what my strengths are and understand how to capitalize on those in the way I act as a leader and the way I teach our young adults here," she says.

Congratulations to this USD School of Health Sciences success story!