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How to be a Physical Therapist?
What major is best to become a physical therapist?
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Aman’s Answer
Becoming a physical therapist is a rewarding career choice, and planning your path early on is a great idea. Here’s a step-by-step guide along with the best major options to pursue:
1. **UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE**: The first step is to earn a bachelor's degree, but there isn't one specific major required to apply for physical therapy school. However, certain majors can better prepare you for the coursework and prerequisites of a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. Some of the best majors include:
- **KINESIOLOGY**: This is one of the most popular majors for aspiring physical therapists. It focuses on human movement, which is directly related to the field.
- **EXERCISE SCIENCE**: Another excellent major, as it dives into how the body responds to physical activity and exercise, which is central to physical therapy.
- **BIOLOGY**: Since you’ll need a strong background in science, biology is a good option. It covers human anatomy, physiology, and cellular biology, all of which are important for physical therapy.
- **HEALTH SCIENCES**: This major provides a broad overview of healthcare-related topics and prepares you for advanced healthcare degrees.
- **PSYCHOLOGY**: Physical therapy isn’t just about the physical body, but also understanding patient behavior and motivation. Psychology can be helpful in understanding the mental aspects of rehabilitation.
2. **PREREQUISITE COURSES**: No matter your major, you’ll need to complete certain prerequisite courses to apply for DPT programs. These often include:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Biology
- Psychology
- Statistics
3. **GAIN EXPERIENCE**: During your undergraduate years, it’s crucial to gain hands-on experience by volunteering or working in physical therapy settings. Many DPT programs require shadowing hours or internships with licensed physical therapists.
4. **GRADUATE SCHOOL**: After your bachelor's degree, you’ll need to earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, which typically takes about three years. This program includes advanced coursework in areas like biomechanics, clinical practice, and therapeutic techniques, as well as hands-on clinical experience.
5. **LICENSING**: After completing your DPT program, you’ll need to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to become licensed in your state.
By majoring in one of the recommended areas and ensuring you take the necessary prerequisites, you’ll be well-prepared for a future as a physical therapist!
1. **UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE**: The first step is to earn a bachelor's degree, but there isn't one specific major required to apply for physical therapy school. However, certain majors can better prepare you for the coursework and prerequisites of a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. Some of the best majors include:
- **KINESIOLOGY**: This is one of the most popular majors for aspiring physical therapists. It focuses on human movement, which is directly related to the field.
- **EXERCISE SCIENCE**: Another excellent major, as it dives into how the body responds to physical activity and exercise, which is central to physical therapy.
- **BIOLOGY**: Since you’ll need a strong background in science, biology is a good option. It covers human anatomy, physiology, and cellular biology, all of which are important for physical therapy.
- **HEALTH SCIENCES**: This major provides a broad overview of healthcare-related topics and prepares you for advanced healthcare degrees.
- **PSYCHOLOGY**: Physical therapy isn’t just about the physical body, but also understanding patient behavior and motivation. Psychology can be helpful in understanding the mental aspects of rehabilitation.
2. **PREREQUISITE COURSES**: No matter your major, you’ll need to complete certain prerequisite courses to apply for DPT programs. These often include:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Biology
- Psychology
- Statistics
3. **GAIN EXPERIENCE**: During your undergraduate years, it’s crucial to gain hands-on experience by volunteering or working in physical therapy settings. Many DPT programs require shadowing hours or internships with licensed physical therapists.
4. **GRADUATE SCHOOL**: After your bachelor's degree, you’ll need to earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, which typically takes about three years. This program includes advanced coursework in areas like biomechanics, clinical practice, and therapeutic techniques, as well as hands-on clinical experience.
5. **LICENSING**: After completing your DPT program, you’ll need to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to become licensed in your state.
By majoring in one of the recommended areas and ensuring you take the necessary prerequisites, you’ll be well-prepared for a future as a physical therapist!