What Should My Major Be?
Physical therapy schools typically do not require that you study a specific academic major. Many students choose Health Science or Biology because there is significant overlap of major courses and pre-physical therapy prerequisites. However, we recommend that if you have a passion in another area, you can and should major in that area.
Major Option
Students majoring in Psychology with a concentration in Pre-Physical Therapy will gain acceptance to the Pre-OT/PT concentration by completing either BIOL 1197 Principles of Organismal Biology or BIOL 1198 Principles of Biology and CHEM 1113 General Chemistry I with a grade of “C” or better in each of these courses, and receiving no more than a total of two “W,” “D” or “F” grades in these courses.
- Licensed Physical Therapist (PT): Physical therapists work directly with patients to assess their movement dysfunction, develop personalized treatment plans, and administer therapeutic interventions. They use a variety of techniques, including exercise, manual therapy, and electrotherapy, to help patients regain their mobility, improve their strength and balance, and reduce pain. PTs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools, and private practices.
- Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA): PTAs work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists to provide care to patients. They perform a variety of tasks, such as assisting with exercise programs, monitoring patient progress, and providing patient education. PTAs typically have an associate’s degree in physical therapy assisting and must pass a national certification exam.
- Physical Therapist Technician (PT Tech): PT techs provide support services to physical therapists and physical therapist assistants. They perform tasks such as preparing treatment areas, setting up equipment, and assisting with patient care. PT techs typically have a high school diploma or equivalent and may receive on-the-job training.
- Rehabilitation Researcher: Rehabilitation researchers design and conduct studies to improve the effectiveness of physical therapy interventions. They may work in universities, hospitals, or research institutions. Rehabilitation researchers typically have a doctoral degree in physical therapy or a related field.
- Physical Therapy Educator: Physical therapy educators teach physical therapy students in colleges and universities. They may also provide continuing education opportunities for practicing PTs. Physical therapy educators typically have a master’s degree or doctorate in physical therapy and may also have teaching experience.
These are just a few of the many career opportunities available to graduates of pre-physical therapy programs. With a strong foundation in science, healthcare principles, and problem-solving skills, pre-physical therapy graduates are well-positioned for a variety of rewarding careers in the physical therapy field and the healthcare industry.
