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.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Biology | 8 Semester Hours Biology | MCB 181R & 181L ECOL 182 R & 182L |
| Chemistry (usually will accept gen chem and/or organic) | 8 Semester Hours Chemistry | CHEM 151 or 141/143 CHEM 152 or 142/144 |
| Anatomy/Physiology | 8 Semester Hours | PSIO 201 and 202 |
| Psychology | 3-9 semester hours of Psychology usually including introductory, developmental, abnormal) | PSY 150A1 or PSY 101 (introductory) PSY 200/240 (development), PSY 381 (abnormal) |
| English | 6 Semester Hours | English 101& 102 or English 109H & additional English class, usually composition |
| Mathematics | 6 Semester Hours | Math 112 (College Algebra) and Math 163 or 263 (statistics/biostats) |
| Physics | 8 Semester Hours with lab | PHYS 102 and 181 PHYS 103 and 182 |
Application Pathway
The standardized test required for most PT programs is the GRE General Test. For more information about that exam see the GRE section of the Educational Testing Service web site.
The Centralized Application Service for Physical Therapy Schools is PTCAS. PTCAS has a wealth of information regarding the application process, PT programs and their requirements for admission