In an unprecedenteddevelopment, USCIS is demanding that FCCPT only issue FCCPT Type I Certificatesto graduates of university programs whose diplomatitles read “Masters Degree,” and who have at least 202.1 credit hours. Any graduate of a program that is equivalentto a US Masters Degree will no longer be eligible to enter the US and practice PhyscialTherapy. USCIS’ actions put US patients’lives at risk, decimate an already dire Physcial Therapy shortage, and alienatefully qualified foreign-trained Physcial Therapists.
USCIS has issued aNotice of Intent to Deny the FCCPT’s ability to issue Type I Certificates. FCCPT is understandably ceding to the USCIS’wishes in spite of USCIS outrageous action. The USCIS’ actions were done without the advice and consultation ofinterested stakeholders, such as FSBPT, APTA, CAPTE and the AAIHR. It is unclear if the USCIS has consulted withthe US HHS, which it is required to do by statute.
The AAIHR hasissued a press release on this matter,which sums up the issue:
“USCIS’ decision was predicated on a numberof potential misunderstandings and inaccuracies. USCIS’ decision toterminate FCCPT accrediting these international programs is largely based onassumptions around required coursework hours and degree titles. However, the comparison of degree “titles” orcredit hours is irrelevant. Titles and credit hours vary by institution.”
MU Law is releasing an FAQ shortly.