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In order to become a physical therapist, what kind of classes did you take in college?

In order to become a physical therapist, what kind of classes did you take in college? I would like to become a physical therapist and I am wondering what classes I need to take in college. I am currently a sophomore in high school.

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Shelia’s Answer

Hello Macie,

Embarking on a journey to become a physical therapist is a truly rewarding path. It's a profession that allows you to bring comfort and relief to people, helping them regain their mobility and quality of life after an injury. As you're currently a high school sophomore, consider enriching your knowledge by taking science classes such as biology and anatomy. Excelling in these subjects and maintaining a high GPA will be beneficial when you apply for college.

As Donne has pointed out, you're looking at a commitment of approximately seven years to obtain your Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. This is indeed a substantial investment in terms of time and finances. Therefore, it's crucial that you thoroughly research PT schools, paying close attention to the prerequisite classes you'll need during your undergraduate studies. Remember, the field of physical therapy is highly competitive, seeking only the best candidates who have excelled in their undergraduate degrees. This is a challenging but fulfilling journey, and your dedication and hard work will certainly pay off.
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Shelly’s Answer

To become a physical therapist, focus on completing a bachelor's degree with a strong foundation in science, such as biology, kinesiology, or exercise science, and take prerequisite courses like anatomy and physiology, biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and statistics. Additionally, courses in biomechanics, exercise physiology, and nutrition can be beneficial. Gain experience through volunteering or working in physical therapy settings to strengthen your application and practical knowledge. Maintain a high GPA, especially in science courses, and prepare for the GRE if required by DPT programs. By dedicating yourself to these steps during your college years, you'll be well-prepared to apply to Doctor of Physical Therapy programs and pursue a rewarding career. Stay focused and motivated—you have the potential to achieve your goals and make a positive impact as a physical therapist!
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Kennedy’s Answer

Hello Macie!

That's a wonderful question! The first step would be to explore the various programs that your preferred colleges and universities offer. These institutions usually outline the necessary courses you need to complete in order to earn a degree or certification in physical therapy. This information will help you plan your class schedule effectively. I would suggest taking some general subjects that will supplement your physical therapy studies. These include biology, kinesiology or exercise science, and psychology courses. Each of these subjects will give you a deeper understanding and a solid base to support your journey towards becoming a physical therapist.
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Donna’s Answer

To become a PT, you will need to complete an undergrad degree, usually taking 4 years. Then you can apply to PT schools that will then be an additional 2.5-3 years finishing with a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. A DPT is the "entry-level" degree needed to practice physical therapy. Some schools that have DPT programs have "bridge" programs for those who get undergrad degrees at the same school that may decrease the time by a semester or two but often a student has to pre-qualify for those programs and adhere to GPA requirements to keep that pre-qualification.
As a PT professor for 20 years, serving many years on admission boards, I recommend that no matter what your undergrad degree major is, that you make sure you meet the prerequisites of the PT schools you are intending to apply to. So, first, identify several PT schools that you want to apply to then go into the school's on-line catalog and see what each particular school requires for admission to PT school. For example, some schools may require a microbiology course or an advanced chemistry but others may not. Just be sure that you use your undergrad elective credits to take any courses outside of those required by your major that you may need to meet the PT prerequisites. And always apply to more than one PT school!
So, your undergraduate classes/major would usually be heavily science-based (e.g. biology, chemistry, physiology, anatomy etc). Or you could major in psychology, communication etc. BUT please pay attention to the info above about pre-requisites.

Donna recommends the following next steps:

Go to American Physical Therapy Association (apta.org) website to find schools that offer a DPT, then look up various undergrad degree program requirements at those schools
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Kazi’s Answer

Indeed, a solid foundation in the sciences is crucial for a career in physical therapy. A bachelor's degree in fields like anatomy or biology provides the necessary groundwork for understanding the human body and its functions. Following this, aspiring physical therapists must complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, which has become the required standard in the field. Physical therapists play a vital role in healthcare by helping patients regain mobility, improve balance, and manage pain, ultimately enhancing their overall quality of life through various therapeutic techniques.
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