4 answers
Raegen
Student
Cambridge, Vermont
3
Questions
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physical therpy?
what is the best collage to go to become a physical therpist
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4 answers
Cynthia Doyle PT, DPT, CCI
Physical Therapist
12
Answers
Cheboygan, Michigan
Updated
Cynthia’s Answer
The best college for one person may not be the best college for another person. It is important to identify your priorities in order to determine the best college for you. Any school that offers physical therapy has to be accredited. In order for that to happen, the curriculum is required to include the critical elements necessary to prepare students to be entry level physical therapists. Also, students have to demonstrate competency in specific skills at clinical internships in order to pass. Beyond that, after graduation students must pass the National Physical Therapy Exam to become licensed to practice.
Here are some things to consider about the "best" school for you:
Quality of Academics - Some may want the most rigorous and prestigious program; others may not succeed in such a program which obviously would not make it a good choice for them.
Graduation Rate - Getting accepting into a program does not guarantee you will complete the program. Each program's website should include the program's graduation rate.
Culture and Values of the Program and Surrounding Community - Does this align with your values? Is this a place you'd want to live, study and work in for three years?
Location - Cost of living varies depending upon location; lifestyle/experiences/quality of life vary depending upon location. Travel back and forth to visit family and friends on school breaks is impacted by location as well.
Types/Locations of Internships - Clinical internships are a major part of your educational experience; some students end up getting employment offers from places where they interned.
Tuition - Student loans may become part of your life for years to come which can have a large impact on your budget and quality of day to day life long after your education is completed. https://www.savingforcollege.com/article/how-much-student-loan-debt-is-too-much
Pass Rate for the National Exam - Since you must pass the National Exam in order to practice, knowing the program's pass rate can offer insight into how well each program prepares students. This should be included on each program's web site. Here are statistics for all programs (2 year averages) for the 1st time pass rate: https://www.fsbpt.org/Portals/0/documents/free-resources/PT%20First2%20Pass%20Rates%20_CAPTE_2024Q1.pdf; and there are statistics for the ultimate pass rate (taking test multiple times before passing) https://www.fsbpt.org/Free-Resources/NPTE-Pass-Rate-Reports/NPTE-Pass-Rates-By-Program/exam/PT
These are just some of the things to consider in determining the best school for you. Good luck with your application, decision process, academic experience and future career!
Here are some things to consider about the "best" school for you:
Quality of Academics - Some may want the most rigorous and prestigious program; others may not succeed in such a program which obviously would not make it a good choice for them.
Graduation Rate - Getting accepting into a program does not guarantee you will complete the program. Each program's website should include the program's graduation rate.
Culture and Values of the Program and Surrounding Community - Does this align with your values? Is this a place you'd want to live, study and work in for three years?
Location - Cost of living varies depending upon location; lifestyle/experiences/quality of life vary depending upon location. Travel back and forth to visit family and friends on school breaks is impacted by location as well.
Types/Locations of Internships - Clinical internships are a major part of your educational experience; some students end up getting employment offers from places where they interned.
Tuition - Student loans may become part of your life for years to come which can have a large impact on your budget and quality of day to day life long after your education is completed. https://www.savingforcollege.com/article/how-much-student-loan-debt-is-too-much
Pass Rate for the National Exam - Since you must pass the National Exam in order to practice, knowing the program's pass rate can offer insight into how well each program prepares students. This should be included on each program's web site. Here are statistics for all programs (2 year averages) for the 1st time pass rate: https://www.fsbpt.org/Portals/0/documents/free-resources/PT%20First2%20Pass%20Rates%20_CAPTE_2024Q1.pdf; and there are statistics for the ultimate pass rate (taking test multiple times before passing) https://www.fsbpt.org/Free-Resources/NPTE-Pass-Rate-Reports/NPTE-Pass-Rates-By-Program/exam/PT
These are just some of the things to consider in determining the best school for you. Good luck with your application, decision process, academic experience and future career!
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
549
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Raegen,
Good question! Physical therapy (PT) is a great field, focused on helping people recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve movement. To become a licensed physical therapist, you typically need to complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, which requires a bachelor's degree, and then a DPT program that lasts about three years.
Some of the best colleges and universities known for their physical therapy programs include:
1. University of Southern California (USC)
- Known for its top-ranked Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program and innovative clinical education.
- Located in Los Angeles, CA.
2. University of Pittsburgh
- Consistently ranked among the best for PT education, with a strong emphasis on research and clinical practice.
- Located in Pittsburgh, PA.
3. Washington University in St. Louis
- Their DPT program focuses on clinical excellence and patient-centered care, offering strong research opportunities.
- Located in St. Louis, MO.
4. Emory University
- Highly regarded for its combination of classroom instruction, clinical training, and research opportunities.
- Located in Atlanta, GA.
5. University of Delaware
- Offers a DPT program that’s known for strong research and clinical components.
- Located in Newark, DE.
6. Northwestern University
- Renowned for its DPT program that integrates research and clinical practice to prepare students for advanced practice.
- Located in Evanston, IL.
7. University of Miami
- Their DPT program focuses on comprehensive care and innovative rehabilitation techniques.
- Located in Miami, FL.
8. Duke University
- Known for its rigorous DPT program and strong reputation in health care education.
- Located in Durham, NC.
Each program has its own strengths, such as clinical placements, research opportunities, and faculty expertise, so it’s important to consider what’s most important to you when choosing a program.
Best wishes!
Good question! Physical therapy (PT) is a great field, focused on helping people recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve movement. To become a licensed physical therapist, you typically need to complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, which requires a bachelor's degree, and then a DPT program that lasts about three years.
Some of the best colleges and universities known for their physical therapy programs include:
1. University of Southern California (USC)
- Known for its top-ranked Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program and innovative clinical education.
- Located in Los Angeles, CA.
2. University of Pittsburgh
- Consistently ranked among the best for PT education, with a strong emphasis on research and clinical practice.
- Located in Pittsburgh, PA.
3. Washington University in St. Louis
- Their DPT program focuses on clinical excellence and patient-centered care, offering strong research opportunities.
- Located in St. Louis, MO.
4. Emory University
- Highly regarded for its combination of classroom instruction, clinical training, and research opportunities.
- Located in Atlanta, GA.
5. University of Delaware
- Offers a DPT program that’s known for strong research and clinical components.
- Located in Newark, DE.
6. Northwestern University
- Renowned for its DPT program that integrates research and clinical practice to prepare students for advanced practice.
- Located in Evanston, IL.
7. University of Miami
- Their DPT program focuses on comprehensive care and innovative rehabilitation techniques.
- Located in Miami, FL.
8. Duke University
- Known for its rigorous DPT program and strong reputation in health care education.
- Located in Durham, NC.
Each program has its own strengths, such as clinical placements, research opportunities, and faculty expertise, so it’s important to consider what’s most important to you when choosing a program.
Best wishes!
Donna Calvert, PT, PhD
physical therapist
57
Answers
Mission, Kansas
Updated
Donna’s Answer
The best college to go to for PT school is the college that accepts you!
The fact remains that PT school is expensive. But the tuition costs, even of those listed above, vary widely. Please consider a state school whose tutition, while still expensive, may be more reasonable to manage as an expense or a loan payment later. You will still have a PT degree when you finish at a less costly school!
Another point to consider is that PT school prepares you to be a generalist practitioner. A program might offer one or two specialist courses, but that does not make you a specialist. That only comes with experience and continuing education via seminars and specialist training/credentialing. So don't be lured by any claims that you will be a specialist when you finish at a particular school.
Good luck in your search!
go to APTA.org to see schools that offer DPT degrees in the US
The fact remains that PT school is expensive. But the tuition costs, even of those listed above, vary widely. Please consider a state school whose tutition, while still expensive, may be more reasonable to manage as an expense or a loan payment later. You will still have a PT degree when you finish at a less costly school!
Another point to consider is that PT school prepares you to be a generalist practitioner. A program might offer one or two specialist courses, but that does not make you a specialist. That only comes with experience and continuing education via seminars and specialist training/credentialing. So don't be lured by any claims that you will be a specialist when you finish at a particular school.
Good luck in your search!
Donna recommends the following next steps:
this is a great answer! you also have to consider where you may want to live for three years (for the postgrad portion, if you are not already in a college undergrad PT program), and note that you may have to have flexibility in your living arrangement to complete clinical internships or field experiences during those three years of schooling. You will want access to a good support system and an affordable housing option, so take that into consideration - do you want to be far from family and friends, do you want to be in a city or a rural environment?
Rebecca Kollmorgen
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6175
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Raegen,
Essential Guide to Top Colleges for Aspiring Physical Therapists
Embarking on a journey to become a Physical Therapist (PT) generally requires a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, a graduate-level qualification. Your choice of college can significantly shape your educational journey and career prospects. Here's a comprehensive guide on key considerations and top colleges for this career path.
Accreditation: A Must-Have
Ensure the program you're eyeing is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). This accreditation is a must for securing your license as a physical therapist.
Program Reputation: A Key Influence
The program's reputation can greatly affect job placement rates and networking opportunities. Highly-regarded programs often have solid ties with healthcare facilities, providing students with valuable internships and job opportunities post-graduation.
Curriculum and Specializations: A Comprehensive Approach
Opt for programs that provide a well-rounded curriculum, covering key areas like anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and therapeutic techniques. Some programs also offer specializations in fields like sports medicine, geriatrics, or pediatrics.
Clinical Experience: Hands-On Learning
Practical clinical experience is a cornerstone of physical therapy education. Look into the number of clinical hours required by the program and the diversity of clinical placements they offer.
Top-Notch Colleges for Physical Therapy
University of Southern California (USC)
USC's DPT program consistently ranks among the nation's best. It offers a wealth of clinical training opportunities and maintains strong connections with various healthcare facilities in Los Angeles.
University of Delaware
Renowned for its research initiatives, the University of Delaware's respected DPT program emphasizes evidence-based practice and provides a multitude of clinical experiences.
Washington University in St. Louis
This university's DPT program is recognized for its high academic standards and innovative teaching methods, coupled with access to state-of-the-art research facilities.
Emory University
Emory's DPT program cultivates critical thinking skills alongside practical experience in diverse settings, preparing graduates for a range of roles within the physical therapy field.
Boston University
Boston University's DPT program champions interprofessional education and community involvement, while offering robust clinical training opportunities.
Northwestern University
Northwestern's accelerated DPT program blends rigorous coursework with extensive clinical practice, effectively preparing students for their future careers.
University of Pittsburgh
The University of Pittsburgh places a strong emphasis on research within its DPT curriculum, providing students with ample hands-on experience through partnerships with local health systems.
In Conclusion
Selecting the right college to become a physical therapist involves considering factors such as accreditation, reputation, quality of the curriculum, clinical experience opportunities, and specializations offered. The colleges mentioned above are among the best based on these criteria.
This answer's accuracy is estimated at 95%.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources:
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA): A premier organization for physical therapists in the U.S., offering resources about accredited programs and professional standards.
U.S. News & World Report: An annual publication ranking graduate programs based on various metrics including academic reputation, peer assessments, and job placement rates.
Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE): The authoritative body accrediting physical therapy education programs in the United States, ensuring educational quality across institutions.
May God bless you,
JC.
Essential Guide to Top Colleges for Aspiring Physical Therapists
Embarking on a journey to become a Physical Therapist (PT) generally requires a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, a graduate-level qualification. Your choice of college can significantly shape your educational journey and career prospects. Here's a comprehensive guide on key considerations and top colleges for this career path.
Accreditation: A Must-Have
Ensure the program you're eyeing is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). This accreditation is a must for securing your license as a physical therapist.
Program Reputation: A Key Influence
The program's reputation can greatly affect job placement rates and networking opportunities. Highly-regarded programs often have solid ties with healthcare facilities, providing students with valuable internships and job opportunities post-graduation.
Curriculum and Specializations: A Comprehensive Approach
Opt for programs that provide a well-rounded curriculum, covering key areas like anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and therapeutic techniques. Some programs also offer specializations in fields like sports medicine, geriatrics, or pediatrics.
Clinical Experience: Hands-On Learning
Practical clinical experience is a cornerstone of physical therapy education. Look into the number of clinical hours required by the program and the diversity of clinical placements they offer.
Top-Notch Colleges for Physical Therapy
University of Southern California (USC)
USC's DPT program consistently ranks among the nation's best. It offers a wealth of clinical training opportunities and maintains strong connections with various healthcare facilities in Los Angeles.
University of Delaware
Renowned for its research initiatives, the University of Delaware's respected DPT program emphasizes evidence-based practice and provides a multitude of clinical experiences.
Washington University in St. Louis
This university's DPT program is recognized for its high academic standards and innovative teaching methods, coupled with access to state-of-the-art research facilities.
Emory University
Emory's DPT program cultivates critical thinking skills alongside practical experience in diverse settings, preparing graduates for a range of roles within the physical therapy field.
Boston University
Boston University's DPT program champions interprofessional education and community involvement, while offering robust clinical training opportunities.
Northwestern University
Northwestern's accelerated DPT program blends rigorous coursework with extensive clinical practice, effectively preparing students for their future careers.
University of Pittsburgh
The University of Pittsburgh places a strong emphasis on research within its DPT curriculum, providing students with ample hands-on experience through partnerships with local health systems.
In Conclusion
Selecting the right college to become a physical therapist involves considering factors such as accreditation, reputation, quality of the curriculum, clinical experience opportunities, and specializations offered. The colleges mentioned above are among the best based on these criteria.
This answer's accuracy is estimated at 95%.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources:
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA): A premier organization for physical therapists in the U.S., offering resources about accredited programs and professional standards.
U.S. News & World Report: An annual publication ranking graduate programs based on various metrics including academic reputation, peer assessments, and job placement rates.
Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE): The authoritative body accrediting physical therapy education programs in the United States, ensuring educational quality across institutions.
May God bless you,
JC.