Physical Therapy

Physical therapists are evidence-based, healthcare professionals who diagnose and treat individuals of all ages who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives. They offer treatment that improves mobility and relieves pain, reduces the need for surgery and prescription drugs, and allows patients to participate in a recovery plan designed for their specific needs. In addition, physical therapists work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility before it occurs by developing fitness and wellness-oriented programs for healthier and more active lifestyles. Read through the tabs below to learn more about pursuing a career in physical therapy and the next steps to take.

• Typical Responsibilities
  Diagnose patients’ functions and movements by observing them stand, walk or perform activities/tasks, perform various tests and measures, and by listening to their concerns.
  Design individualized plans of care based on their medical expertise, best available research, the patients’ unique situations, and goals, and the expected outcomes of the plans.
  Use techniques such as exercises, 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 a patient’s progress, and modify their plans of care, when necessary, to try new treatments.
• Experience and Exposure

  Many programs require applicants to have a certain number of volunteer or paid experiences working with patients under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. These requirements vary by program and more information can be found on the PTCAS website.

• Prerequisite Coursework

  It varies by school. A complete list of prerequisite courses is available for each institution. There is also a Comparison of Course Prerequisites by program chart.

• Standardized Test(s)

  Most programs require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) for admission.  Detailed information about the GRE process is available on the PTCAS website.

• Letters of Recommendation
  Many programs require 1-4 letters of reference as part of the admissions process. See also Reference Requirements by Program Summary and the reference instructions.
• The Admissions Cycle

  There is a Centralized Application Process (PTCAS) that most physical therapy schools (212) participate in.

  Application opens: early July

  Applications can be submitted: July – May but deadlines may vary from year to year

  Fees: $155 to apply to one program, $60 for each additional

  Fee waivers: There is a fee assistance program to help cover application deadlines available to eligible students to apply.

  ATPA has created an Applicant Help Center to aid in the application process.