Ellen Wruble

Dr. Ellen Wruble is a Professor and Director of the Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) Program at the University of Delaware's Department of Physical Therapy. She also leads the Master of Science in Anatomy & Clinical Health Science program. Her professional roles include academic leadership, clinical education, and curriculum development with over 25 years of experience in physical therapy and rehabilitation science.

Education: BS in Clinical Science (Ithaca College, 1993), MSPT (Ithaca College, 1994), DScPT (University of Maryland, 2003). She holds licensure in Delaware and Maryland, certifications as a Wound Care Specialist, and is a Fellow of the American College of Certified Wound Specialists.

Research focuses on wound management, acute care physical therapy, and innovative clinical education models. Her work emphasizes evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and translational research. Notable contributions include advancing acute care PT competencies and integrating simulation-based training into curricula.

• Awards: Multiple teaching excellence awards, including APTA Lecturer recognition (2016)
• Professional Affiliations: Member of American Physical Therapy Association (Acute Care, Education, Oncology Sections)
• Leadership: Former Director of DPT programs at University of Maryland and co-developer of integrated clinical education models

Labs/Teams: Active in simulation-based education through the Center for Simulation Innovation and collaborates with theater programs to enhance clinical training realism.