Physical therapists, sometimes called PTs, help injured or ill people improve their movement and manage their pain. These therapists are often an important part of the rehabilitation, treatment, and prevention of patients with chronic conditions, illnesses, or injuries.
Physical therapists typically do the following:
- Review patients’ medical history and any referrals or notes from doctors, surgeons, or other healthcare workers
- Diagnose patients’ functions and movements by observing them stand or walk and by listening to their concerns, among other methods
- Develop individualized plans of care for patients, outlining the patients’ goals and the expected outcomes of the plans
- Use exercises, stretching maneuvers, hands-on therapy, and equipment to ease patients’ pain, help them increase their mobility, prevent further pain or injury, and facilitate health and wellness
- Evaluate and record a patient’s progress, modifying a plan of care and trying new treatments as needed
- Educate patients and their families about what to expect from the recovery process and how best to cope with challenges throughout the process
Application process for Physical Therapy programs vary by school. It is important for students to be aware of the specific process of the schools to which they may apply.
There are many factors that are evaluated throughout the application process.
- Academic Record
- The Standardized Test - The General Record Exam (GRE)
- Letters of Evaluation
- The Interview
- Extracurricular Activities and Work Experience
- The Application Service – Physical Therapy Centralized Application Service (PTCAS)
Please visit the Center for Health Sciences and Student Success in the College of Sciences and Engineering at Â鶹ÊÓƵAPK University for more information on the application process.
PTCAS opens on June 30th. Students interested in applying to Physical Therapy programs should complete the application one year before you expect to begin the program.
Pre-Physical Therapy students are encouraged to apply early and to work with the Center for Health Sciences and Student Success in the College of Science and Engineering at Â鶹ÊÓƵAPK University in preparation of the application process.
Application requirements for Physical Therapy programs vary by school. It is important for students to be aware of the specific requirements of the schools to which they may apply.
Typical course requirements include biology, anatomy, physiology, chemistry, physics, statistics, psychology and other social sciences. Many programs require paid or unpaid experiences in at least one, if not more physical therapy settings.