Pre-Physical Therapy

The Master in Physical therapy (MPT) is required for professional preparation to be a Physical Therapist. This degree will take approximately two and a half years to complete.

Students are not required to pursue a specifc BA/BS degree, it is important that they complete the core prerequisite courses in preparation for the MPT degree. Most of the courses are in the natural sciences and include such subjects as biology, anatomy, physiology, chemistry and physics. Kinesiology with a pre-physical therapy option and biology are often chosen majors.

Physical Therapists help patients, including accident victims and individuals with disabling conditions such as low-back pain, arthritis, heart disease, fractures, head injuries, and cerebral palsy, by providing treatment through physical means (exercise, weight lifting, special equipment, hot and cold packs, traction, whirlpool baths, swimming pools, etc.). Physical therapy seeks to improve mobility, relieve pain, and prevent or minimize permanent physical disabilities. They restore, maintain, and promote overall fitness and health. Therapists work under the direction of a physician to assist patients in overcoming or compensating for any loss of function and in restoring physical and emotional health. Registered physical therapists can work independently of physicians. Education: to work as a physical therapist one must graduate with a master's or doctorate degree, from an accredited physical therapist educational program. All states require physical therapists to pass a state licensure exam before they can practice. For additional information about the physical therapy field view the following website: www.apta.org

The Physical Therapy Academic Prerequisites

• The following universities offer graduate degrees in Physical Therapy. Both the Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) and the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) require baccalaureate degrees. The best resources for information in the Physical Therapy websites listed for each institution.
• Additional admission requirements include a bachelor's degree and program prerequisites and may include the GRE, letters of recommendation, a competitive GPA, work or volunteer experience in a Physical Therapy setting.