Physical Therapy School
Overview
- Any major is acceptable for applying to physical therapy programs. Common majors include Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry Exercise Science and Psychology. View our majors
- Some schools require the GRE. Learn more about the GRE
- Ready to get started on the application process? How to apply and timeline
- Where have Cal Lutheran students been accepted? See the partial list of PT programs attended
Applying to Physical Therapy School
What is Physical Therapy Program Application Assistance Program?
The Physical Therapy Assistant Program Application Assistance Program at CLU is a free service to assist CLU students and alumni with the application process for Physical Therapy programs.
Prerequisites
Most PT programs have the following prerequisites. Courses may vary, so make sure
to check with the program you are interested in.
Anatomy/A&P 1 with lab, Physiology A&P 2 with lab, Biology 1 (not botany or zoology),
Biology 2 (not botany or zoology), General Chemistry with lab, General Chemistry 2
with a lab, General Physics 1 with lab, General Physics 2 with lab, Psychology, Statistics
Note: Some DPT programs only accept anatomy and/or physiology courses completed in a biology, neuroscience, anatomy or integrated physiology (A&P) course or those completed in other departments such as kinesiology. Visit PTCAS directory to determine what type of anatomy and physiology courses are required for admission.
Resume Assistance and Reviews
Whether you are just getting started with putting together a resume or already have one in place, Career Services can help you with getting it ready for healthcare related internships or for Physical Therapy program applications. Access samples in the document library and upload your rough draft for a counselor to review in clupostings, attend a resume writing workshop or schedule an appointment with a career counselor. A resume is a crucial part of the application process, you'll want to make sure it's in the correct format and includes everything you need!
Do I Need an Internship?
Yes! Many Physical Therapy programs require clinical experience and a specific number of hours or type of experience. Not only do internships look great on your resume and applications, but it also helps you decide if Physical Therapy programs and a career in healthcare is the right fit. Internships are also a great way to establish contacts in the field for informational interviews and possible letters of recommendation. Learn more about internships here and how Career Services can help you find one.
Personal Statement Resources and Reviews
A written statement is required as part of the application process. Prompts and requirements may vary by school, but Career Services has tip sheets and samples and can review your first draft once you have it completed.
GRE Exam and Test Prep Info
Some schools will require you to take the GRE. For those that require it, a good score is essentail to get into Physical Therapy programs. Learn more about the GRE format of the test and ways to prepare to get the score you want.
How will my letters be sent to schools?
Letters are uploaded directly to PTCAS by letter writers. Once you enter their information into the letter of recommendation section of the application they will receive an email with a link to upload thier letter.
To apply to Physical Therpay programs you will complete a primary application through PTCAS (Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service). The basic components of the application are below and may vary from school to school.
- Personal Information (contact information and personal data sections)
- Academic History (schools attended, coursework and tests section: GRE, TOEFL -varies by school)
- Supporting Information (letters of receommendation, experiences, achievements, licenses and certifications, essay and memberships)
- Program Materials (additional application requirements)
A PTCAS cycle runs from June each year until the following June. Some programs favor early applicants who submit in June or July while others take applications through the following June. Application deadlines and program start dates vary.
Physical Therapy Schools Attended
A partial list of physical therapy schools our students have been accepted to:
- Arcadia University
- Azusa Pacific University
- Boston University
- California State University, Long Beach
- California State University, Northridge
- California State University, San Diego
- Chapman University
- Duke University
- East Tennessee State University
- Emory University
- Franklin Pierce University
- George Fox University
- Georgia State University
- Loma Linda University
- Midwestern University
- Mount Saint Mary's University
- Pacific University
- Regis University
- Touro University Nevada
- Tufts University
- University of California, San Diego
- University of Minnesota
- University of Nevada-Las Vegas
- University of North Dakota
- University of Southern California
- University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
- University of the Pacific
- University of Utah
- University of Washington
- West Coast University
- Western University of Health Sciences