Preparing for a Career in Physical Therapy
Learn more about a career as a Physical Therapist
Learn about The University of Arizona’s new Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Students earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree after finishing physical therapy school. Programs are typically two-three years long.
ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS
Requirements vary widely by school so it is important to look at the requirements of programs you are considering to be sure you include those courses in your academic career at The University of Arizona.
Physical Therapy School Prerequisites
| REQUIREMENT | GENERAL DESCRIPTION | U OF A COURSE NUMBERS |
|---|---|---|
| Anatomy/Physiology |
| |
| Biology |
| |
| Chemistry (usually will accept gen chem and/or organic) |
| |
| English |
| |
| Exercise Physiology |
| |
| Mathematics/Statistics |
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| Medical Ethics |
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| Medical Terminology |
| |
| Physics |
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| Psychology | 3-9 semester hours of Psychology usually including introductory, developmental, abnormal) |
|
Application Service
The application service for physical therapy school is PTCAS (Physical Therapy Centralized Application Service). The application service typically opens in June and is due June of the following year.
Exam
The entrance exam for physical therapy is called GRE (Graduate Record Exam). The GRE is offered year-round.
Helpful Links
APTA Resources: https://ptcasdirectory.apta.org/85/Program-Prerequisites
PTCAS Resources: https://www.apta.org/cas/ptcas
University of Arizona Physical Therapy Program: https://chs.arizona.edu/academics/physical-therapy-program/admissions