Pre-Physical Therapy
Physical Therapists (PTs) are health care professionals who diagnose and treat individuals of all ages, from newborns to the very oldest, who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives.
PTs examine each individual and develop a plan using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function and prevent disability. In addition, PTs 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. State licensure is required in each state in which a physical therapist practices.
Admission to PT Programs
The criteria for admission varies from school to school, but usually include academic record (GPA), standardized admissions exam (GRE), letters of recommendation, demonstrated knowledge and commitment to the profession through experience and personal attributes, and in some cases a personal interview.
To be a competitive applicant for PT programs, it is required that you complete observation hours with a licensed physical therapist. Many programs require that you observe in both in-patient and out-patient settings. View the Summary of Requirements for program specific observation hour requirements.
Most physical therapy programs do not require a specific major, just that you complete an undergraduate degree. Therefore, you may major in almost anything. You should consider a major that you enjoy, in which you will perform well and may serve as a basis for further graduate work or employment should you choose not to apply to or are not admitted to physical therapy school. Many students will choose to major in Health Sciences (Pre-Physical Therapy) at UC, as it requires the majority of the courses that will satisfy admissions requirements for PT programs.
- Biology I and II with labs: BIOL 1081/1081L and 1082/1082L
- Anatomy and Physiology: BIOL 2001C and 2002C or BIOL 3020C(F,S) and 3021(F)
- General Chemistry I and II with labs: CHEM 1040/1040L and 1041/1041L
- Physics I and II with labs: PHYS 1051/1051L and 1052/1052L or PHYS 2001/2001L and 2002/2002L
- Psychology: PSYC 1001
- Statistics: STAT 1031 or 1034, or MEDS 3023C, others may apply
- *English: ENGL 1001 and 2089
- *Exercise Physiology: HLSC 3032C or HLSC 3031(F)
- *Medical Terminology: HCMT 1001 or HLSC 2012 or MA 1010 or CLAS 2031
- * Additional PSYC or SOC: 1-3 semesters from PSYC 2051, 2040, 3022, SOC 1001, Research Methods, topics vary
- Additional requirements may apply, see specific schools for details
* See specific schools for details on which are required
Many, but not all, PT programs require the GRE. Typically, you apply to PT programs before the beginning of your senior year (or a year before you plan to enter), so you should plan to take the exam by the spring or summer after your junior year. The GRE is usually offered five or six days a week and may be taken by appointment at UC Testing Services.
We suggest familiarizing yourself with the GRE early on so that you can plan for the test. Understanding the test can positively affect what you learn in class and how you choose to retain that knowledge. Stretch yourself in general education courses at UC and by reading beyond class requirements. The training will serve you well when you take the GRE.
Most students accepted to a PT program have a GPA of approximately 3.6 or higher. It is particularly important that you perform well in your science courses (biology, chemistry, physics, and math).
Most programs require a reference from a physical therapist you have shadowed. A second or third recommendation may come from a science professor you had in college. In addition, most programs require significant PT shadowing.
Nationally: 71% (ACAPT, 2022).
Things to Consider Before Going Pre-PT
While a career in the medical field can be a rewarding choice, there are a few things to keep in mind before you pursue the pre-PT route.
- The cost of education and amounts and types of financial aid vary from school to school.
- Since you will likely incur a substantial debt for your PT program, you are strongly encouraged to investigate costs and aid early and adjust finances during your undergraduate education.
- Most applicants are eligible for federal aid.
- Low-income applicants may be eligible for the PTCAS Fee Waiver. This will help offset costs of applying to a PT program.
- If eligible, apply for FAFSA during January of your application cycle, even if you are still awaiting admission decision.
- There are some financial assistance programs for:
For many students, the most difficult task is to acquire the study skills and self-discipline necessary to attain academic excellence. The success of your transition to college level work depends on ability, preparation, motivation, organization, and how well you learn. It is important that you really learn the material, not just memorize it, as it is crucial to develop your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The rigorous curriculum of a pre-PT student demands tenacity and stamina and is similar to preparing for medical school.
Admission committees look at the "big picture" as they evaluate applicants. They realize that every student does not hit the ground running when they enter college. Admission committees expect an excellent academic record, but may make some allowances for a problem semester, slow start, or rough spot. If academic problems arise, you must bounce back and perform better than ever to show that the problem was an exception, rather than the rule. Use resources such as professor and T.A. office hours and the Learning Commons.
Having a parallel plan or alternative option to a PT program is highly recommended. That plan could include attending a post-bac or graduate program or pursuing a different kind of healthcare career. ExploreHealthCareers.org is a great resource to finding your alternative career path.
How to Get Started
Preparing for admission to professional schools requires careful long-term planning and accurate information. The PPAC specializes in providing students with necessary information and helping them develop good planning skills. Our staff can provide you with help through each step of the way, including course selection, career exploration, time management tips, information on individual schools, admissions test preparation advice, managing letters of recommendation, and ways to get experience in professional settings.
To get started or learn more, register for a Pre-Health Introduction Workshop.