2 answers
Denise
Student
New Castle, Delaware
1
Question
Updated
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Can I still become a physical therapist with the major sports health?
I may of choose the wrong major & the major for kinesiology is filled. Can I still do PT with my major?
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2 answers
Donna Calvert, PT, PhD
physical therapist
49
Answers
Mission, Kansas
Updated
Donna’s Answer
Denise,
There really isn't a "wrong" major for PT school entry. 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 where you intend to apply. Most importantly, you must have taken the prerequisites and done well in them.
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. You may need to take a semester or two more to finish these prerequisites. And always apply to more than one PT school!
Study hard and good luck...
There really isn't a "wrong" major for PT school entry. 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 where you intend to apply. Most importantly, you must have taken the prerequisites and done well in them.
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. You may need to take a semester or two more to finish these prerequisites. And always apply to more than one PT school!
Study hard and good luck...
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
624
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Denise, it's important to realize that you absolutely can pursue a career as a physical therapist even with a sports health major. Although kinesiology is a common and straightforward choice, a sports health degree can also lay a robust groundwork for a physical therapy career. Both areas of study delve into vital topics like anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and injury prevention, which are all key for a physical therapy career.
To meet the entry requirements for physical therapy school, you should concentrate on completing courses that are usually required, such as biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology. It's also advantageous to acquire relevant experience through internships, volunteering, or part-time jobs in physical therapy environments. These experiences can bolster your application and offer practical understanding of the profession.
Moreover, it's essential to keep your GPA high and establish good relationships with professors and professionals who can provide compelling letters of recommendation. If you notice any gaps in your coursework, think about taking extra classes or obtaining certifications that align with physical therapy prerequisites.
Denise, it's crucial to understand that even if your major isn't the conventional choice, with thoughtful planning and strategic course selection, you can successfully transition into a physical therapy program and achieve your dream of becoming a physical therapist.
To meet the entry requirements for physical therapy school, you should concentrate on completing courses that are usually required, such as biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology. It's also advantageous to acquire relevant experience through internships, volunteering, or part-time jobs in physical therapy environments. These experiences can bolster your application and offer practical understanding of the profession.
Moreover, it's essential to keep your GPA high and establish good relationships with professors and professionals who can provide compelling letters of recommendation. If you notice any gaps in your coursework, think about taking extra classes or obtaining certifications that align with physical therapy prerequisites.
Denise, it's crucial to understand that even if your major isn't the conventional choice, with thoughtful planning and strategic course selection, you can successfully transition into a physical therapy program and achieve your dream of becoming a physical therapist.