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What steps should I take while in High School if I'm interested in physical therapy?
I'm currently a sophomore and I'm interested in a career in physical therapy. What are some classes or opportunities outside of school I should look into taking to see if this is something I should continue to pursue?
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Michael’s Answer
Hi Eliana,
It's wonderful that you're considering a career in physical therapy. This field is incredibly fulfilling, especially if you're passionate about helping people improve their health and recover. Alejandra is right; each university will have its own set of requirements. Volunteering or shadowing in various settings will be really beneficial for you.
Getting into physical therapy programs can be competitive, so your grades, particularly in science subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Psychology, will be important. Taking math courses up to pre-calculus or calculus by your senior year will be helpful. Consider taking AP courses in Psychology and Statistics, and electives like Anatomy and Physiology or Exercise Science.
Outpatient physical therapy clinics often need part-time help in the evenings, which could be a great job opportunity during your junior or senior year. They usually allow shadowing, so you can learn and ask questions. Your local hospital may offer both inpatient and outpatient physical therapy services, which are excellent for observing and volunteering. Also, check if there are skilled nursing or rehabilitation facilities nearby, as these provide unique experiences, especially with elderly patients or those with neurological issues.
While not all programs require observation hours, I strongly recommend exploring as many different facilities as you can to get a broad understanding of the field.
Best of luck,
Mike
It's wonderful that you're considering a career in physical therapy. This field is incredibly fulfilling, especially if you're passionate about helping people improve their health and recover. Alejandra is right; each university will have its own set of requirements. Volunteering or shadowing in various settings will be really beneficial for you.
Getting into physical therapy programs can be competitive, so your grades, particularly in science subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Psychology, will be important. Taking math courses up to pre-calculus or calculus by your senior year will be helpful. Consider taking AP courses in Psychology and Statistics, and electives like Anatomy and Physiology or Exercise Science.
Outpatient physical therapy clinics often need part-time help in the evenings, which could be a great job opportunity during your junior or senior year. They usually allow shadowing, so you can learn and ask questions. Your local hospital may offer both inpatient and outpatient physical therapy services, which are excellent for observing and volunteering. Also, check if there are skilled nursing or rehabilitation facilities nearby, as these provide unique experiences, especially with elderly patients or those with neurological issues.
While not all programs require observation hours, I strongly recommend exploring as many different facilities as you can to get a broad understanding of the field.
Best of luck,
Mike
Updated
JOLAYEMI’s Answer
To be a PT you need a Doctor of Physical Therapy = DPT. That’s 7 years total:Bachelor’s degree: 4 years. Major in kinesiology, exercise science, biology, or athletic training. Doesn’t have to be “pre-PT” but you’ll need the prereqs.DPT program: 3 years after bachelor’sSome colleges have “3+3” programs: 3 years undergrad + 3 years DPT = 6 years total. Look for those if you want to save time.
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Alejandra Giselle’s Answer
it depends about the country also of the institution , every university has different programs
It could help ypu to apply as a volunteer or do something about teaching or research
It could help ypu to apply as a volunteer or do something about teaching or research