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“What are the most important skills or experiences I should gain during my exercise science degree if I want to become a physical therapist”?

Hi, I'm Mackenzie a senior who will be attending mount Union next fall, I am on the journey of looking for scholarships. #Fall25

physical-therapy physical-therapist exercise-science
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Rebecca’s Answer

Keep your mind open as you begin your coursework, as you will be exposed to many different career paths and may find one that resonates more than physical therapy. Take as many diverse electives as you can to broaden your educational background. Seek out volunteer or paid opportunities on campus (such as working with sports teams) and off campus (such as being an aide in a nursing or rehab facility). Talk to your professors about their career paths, and trust that if you are enjoying your classes, then you are on the right track! it will lead you where you want to go.
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Ashley’s Answer

Hi Mackenzie!
I'm currently in my 2nd semester of a hybrid DPT program. I think if you have the time, apply to be a physical therapy aide. I think this is the BEST advice I can give you. I learned so much about:

-Talking to individuals and building relationships with them (I've visited a few, even surprised someone for their bday!)
-Learning exercises (strength, tactical, balance, etc)
-Modalities ( hot packs, ice packs, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and compression pants)
-You're around PTs, maybe even an athletic trainer? So... ASK QUESTIONS!
-Using the equipment yourself and getting a "feel for it"
-Recognizing that no program is the same, but you'll understand more of certain injuries and what type of exercises are given to a person who just had knee surgery.
-Making exercise programs! The PTs would give me exercises and I'd print them for patients and overtime, I recognized a lot and learned the basics for certain diagnosis.


If an aide is not an option, SHADOW a PT! ( they even have aquatic PT) See what their day looks like and notice how they talk to patients and how they document things. You'll do great.
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Linda’s Answer

HI Mackenzie,

1. Make sure your exercise science degree has the prerequisites required to apply to your physical therapy programs of choice.
2. Look at the physical therapy degree program requirements for observation hours.
3. Have fun with your elective choices, take courses outside the scope of the degree- unless you need courses for the PT program that are not part of the exercise science degree.
4. Be a curious lifelong learner, and may you enjoy being a PT as much as I have- it is a great career choice with many options.
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