Choosing and Scheduling Courses

The starting point for a career in physical therapy is your undergraduate preparation. You will need to earn a bachelor's degree and fulfill the necessary pre-requisite courses. Such courses may vary somewhat among physical therapy programs, so be certain to determine the exact pre-requisite courses necessary to gain admission to the physical therapy schools of your choice. In general, undergraduate preparation will entail the following courses.

- Biology with laboratory recommended, but not required (6 semester hours/8 quarter hours)
- Chemistry with laboratory (8 semester hours/12 quarter hours)
- General Physics with laboratory (8 semester hours/12 quarter hours)
- Human Anatomy and Physiology with laboratory (8 semester hours/12 quarter hours)*
- Statistics (3 semester hours/4 quarter hours)
- Any Psychology (3 semester hours/4 quarter hours)
- Abnormal or Developmental Psychology (3 semester hours/4 quarter hours)
- English Composition or Writing (3 semester hours/4 quarter hours)

Note: Depending on program, introductory-level science courses are not accepted. Human Anatomy and Physiology should be completed in the department of anatomy, neuroanatomy, kinesiology and integrated physiology, and biology.

*Botany and Zoology science courses may be not accepted for the Biology requirement.

Some programs require applicants must have completed Anatomy and Physiology courses within the last 5 years prior to application, or demonstrate ongoing work experiences that have kept this knowledge current (e.g. physical therapist assistant, athletic trainer, etc.). All other letter-graded prerequisite coursework is acceptable no matter when the coursework was completed.

Beyond coursework, you should also note:

The GRE is not required, biology with laboratory is recommend but not required, and psychology prerequisites have changed
Completion of a minimum of fifty-hours (50) of volunteer or work experience with a licensed physical therapist is recommended, but not required.
Ability to fulfill the Technical Standards for Physical Therapists.

Early Admit Program

The Hanover College Doctor of Physical Therapy Early Admit Program allows high school seniors to apply for conditional acceptance to the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. Successful applicants will have a guaranteed seat pending maintenance of all undergraduate requirements and earning a bachelor's degree from Hanover College. Through the Early Admit Program, Hanover College students can bypass some of the traditional requirements, like applying and interviewing at multiple schools.

Learn more at https://dptprogram.hanover.edu/admission-overview/early-admit-program/.