A physical therapist in the making
Physical therapists are evidence-based, healthcare professionals who diagnose and treat individuals of all ages who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily life. Physical therapists also work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility before it occurs by developing fitness and wellness-oriented programs for healthier and more active lifestyles. Physical therapists provide care for people in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, schools, sports and fitness facilities, work settings, and nursing homes. Practitioners complete a three-year doctoral program to earn the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.
Required coursework
The coursework listed below should be used as a starting point for degree planning. This list is not intended to be a complete list of requirements for all physical therapy schools, nor is every class listed required by all physical therapy schools. Information about the various physical therapy schools, as well as a list of their required coursework, can be found on the PTCAS website as well as individual school websites.
- BIOL 2550 and 2550L & BIOL 2560 and 2560L
- BIOL 2110 and 2110L & BIOL 2120 and 2120L
- CHEM 1770 and 1707L & CHEM 1780 and 1780L
- PHYS 1310 and 1310L & PHYS 1320 and 1320L OR PHYS 2310 and 2310L & PHYS 2320 and 2320L
- STAT 1010
- PSYCH 1010 and 1-2 additional psychology courses depending on school
Most physical therapy programs also require observation hours. General information about required hours can be found at http://aptaapps.apta.org/ptcas/observationhours.aspx, however it is important to look at individual schools for complete information about observation requirements.