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What Is Physical Therapy School Like?

by Brad Maddy

Overview

There are more than 200 accredited physical therapy schools in the United States offering entry-level, master's and doctorate degrees. Each school has its own methods of teaching, but all of them teach the same basic information in order to maintain accreditation by the American Physical Therapy Association. The classes are challenging and students must learn a lot of information, but physical therapy school is a fun and enjoyable experience on the way to starting a career.
Courses

Physical therapy students take courses in anatomy, neurology, kinesiology and biomechanics, physiology, musculoskeletal rehabilitation, neuromuscular rehabilitation, motor learning and modalities. These courses are often intense, requiring concentration and study, because of the amount of information that students must master. Good study habits and dedication should help ensure success.

Internships

All physical therapy schools in the United States have internships built into the programs. Depending on the school, you will have multiple opportunities to do clinical work outside of regular classroom learning. These internships are diverse and are designed to provide experience in a wide variety of clinical settings, from acute care in a hospital to sports rehabilitation in an out-patient clinic or working with elderly patients in a skilled care center.
Hands-on Training

Labs are an integral part of physical therapy education. Hands-on experience is a valuable part of the preparation for real clinical practice. Here you practice and fine tune those treatments, tests and measures that are required to properly examine and evaluate patients. If you approach the labs with a positive attitude and a desire to improve your skills, you'll be more successful at learning the theory behind them.
Study Time

Expect to be a full-time student when enrolled in physical therapy school. Some students do work part-time, but few can maintain a full-time job and keep up with the demands of the coursework. To keep up in class, expect to spend at least four hours each day studying outside of class. Because each class tends to build upon previously studied material, staying up-to-date on assigned information is important.
Admission

Admission to physical therapy school is very competitive. Good grades are important: Most schools require at least a 3.0 grade point average. Previous experience also is important, whether prior work experience, volunteer work or time spent shadowing a practicing physical therapist. Most schools require a bachelor's degree before you can apply as well as completion of prerequisite classes in biology, physics, chemistry, anatomy, statistics and psychology. Each school has its own admission requirements and counselors who can assist you with the application process.