What kinds of undergraduate studies should I take part in in order to prepare for Physical Therapy in graduates school?
I'm considering becoming a physical therapist. #college-majors
2 answers
Dr. Kelly’s Answer
Hey there! It's really important to peek into the curriculum of the schools you're eyeing. Make sure you'll enjoy the journey through the coursework. If you're aiming for a graduate school in Physical Therapy, your undergraduate studies should give you a solid base in the right subjects. Here are some study areas you might want to consider:
Biology: Biology courses are your ticket to understanding anatomy, physiology, and human biology. These are super important if you're planning a career in physical therapy.
Anatomy and Physiology: Want to know the human body inside out? Courses in anatomy and physiology will do just that. They're key to understanding how our bodies move and recover.
Kinesiology: This is all about the mechanics of body movements. Super relevant to physical therapy, kinesiology courses will help you understand how our bodies react to exercise and injury.
Exercise Science: Dive into exercise science to learn about exercise prescription, biomechanics, and fitness assessment. These are all big parts of physical therapy.
Psychology and Behavioral Sciences: Understanding how people think and behave can be a big help in a physical therapy setting. It's especially useful when you're dealing with pain management, treatment plans, and patient education.
Statistics and Research Methods: To evaluate evidence-based practice and conduct research in physical therapy, you'll need strong quantitative and research skills. Courses in statistics and research methods will get you ready to analyze data and understand research findings.
Health Sciences: Health sciences courses can give you a wider understanding of healthcare, covering things like public health, health promotion, and healthcare delivery systems.
Pre-Physical Therapy Tracks: Some universities offer pre-physical therapy tracks or advising programs. These are designed to get students ready for admission to physical therapy graduate programs. They might include specific coursework, volunteer or observation hours, and advice on the application process.
Don't forget about hands-on experience! Volunteering or interning in physical therapy settings can give you a real feel for the profession and boost your graduate program applications. Lastly, be sure to check out the specific prerequisites and admission requirements of the graduate programs you're interested in. This will help you tailor your undergraduate studies to fit the bill.
Daniela Silva
Daniela’s Answer
Hi Phylicia,
Prospective physical therapists have options in areas of study at the undergraduate level. A student may choose to enroll in a major that includes significant science coursework, such as biology, anatomy and physiology. Alternatively, some schools offer a pre-physical therapy major in their health and physical education departments. These curricula may require courses in science and health-related topics, including exercise physiology, physical education methods and personal wellness.
Physical therapists need a graduate degree. Doctoral programs are in greater supply, but some master's programs are available. Be prepared to identify what classes you have taken (or will take) to fulfill the program's course requirements. The most commonly required course prerequisites are below:
Anatomy and Physiology I / Anatomy
Anatomy and Physiology II / Physiology
Biology I and II
Advanced Biology (eg, cell, embryology, genetics, histology, immunology, microbiology, molecular)
Chemistry I and II
Physics I and II
Psychology
Advanced Psychology (eg, abnormal, developmental, rehabilitation, sports)
Statistics
English Composition
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs train students in the procedures of diagnosis and treatment. Coursework covers topics in anatomy and procedures in physical therapy, such as therapeutic applications and exercise. Some DPT programs include integration and assessment courses that allow students to apply the techniques they've learned through simulations.
Students may consider programs that are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). This organization is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council on Higher Education Accreditation as the only accrediting agency for physical therapy programs. According to the CAPTE, graduating from an accredited program is required to sit for a licensing exam (www.capteonline.org).
In: http://study.com/education_required_to_become_a_physical_therapist.html
http://www.apta.org/ProspectiveStudents/Admissions/PTProcess/
Good Studies!!