
- Degree Level
- Undergraduate
- Degrees Offered
- Concentration
- school/college
- College of Health Sciences
Your Pathway to Becoming a Physical Therapist
Pre-Physical Therapy (Pre PT) is a 4+DPT year pathway leading to the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from Arcadia University. Students frequently pursue an undergraduate major in a discipline such as Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology, Business, or Health Administration, but you can choose any major that captures your interest, and that enables you to complete the prerequisite courses.
Prerequisite courses needed for graduate-level study include Biology, Human Physiology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, and Statistics.
A Well-rounded Background in the Liberal Arts
The Pre-Physical Therapy program emphasizes the sciences but also includes a well-rounded background in the liberal arts. This combination prepares you for a health-care profession that helps people to overcome the effects of disease and injury and prevent health problems.
Work as a Physical Therapist in a Variety of Settings
Students who complete the program are prepared to work as physical therapists in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, sports medicine centers, private homes, nursing homes, schools, private practices, specialized pediatric facilities, and wellness/fitness centers. You also can work as educators, researchers, and consultants in a wide variety of organizations.
Arcadia’s Physical Therapy Program
Arcadia is ranked 24th among accredited graduate PT programs in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, and was the first program in Pennsylvania to offer both the entry-level, and transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy programs. Arcadia Physical Therapy programs offer:
- Nationally and internationally known faculty and speakers, and a diverse student population
- Patient-centered, evidence-based curriculum
- State-of-the-art facilities and technology
- Clinical experiences at top-rated medical facilities
- Opportunities for stimulating international research and community service
The DPT program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. All graduates of Arcadia’s program to date have passed the licensure examination in their state of choice.