Preparing for a Career as a Physical Therapist
Physical Therapists are nationally certified and state-licensed movement professionals who improve the quality of a patients life through hands on care, wellness-oriented programs, and prescribed exercise. Physical Therapists also reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability. Currently, there is a high demand for Physical Therapists.
Most Pre-Physical Therapy students will enter the
Clinical and Rehabilitation Science major at MU, which provides the typical Pre-Physical Therapy preparation. Nevertheless, the Biology-Chemistry major also covers the prerequisite coursework for MU's new
Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
- Prerequisites
Physical Therapist program admission typically requires the following minimum coursework: two semesters each of general chemistry with lab and college or general physics with lab; one semester each of human anatomy with lab, human physiology with lab, statistics, and psychology; and two more semesters of biology with labs (not botany or zoology). Always check on the specific requirements of schools to which you may eventually apply.
- Course Sequences
- Physical Therapy Volunteer Experience
Most programs require applicants to have a minimum amount of volunteer or paid physical therapy experiences of working with patients under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. Typically, applicants will also be required to have a licensed physical therapist sign off and verify those hours. The physical therapy program will determine specific settings and types of experiences required. For more information visit see the specific requirements of schools on the American Physical Therapy Association website.
Extensive career preparation and advising information for current students is
here.