Physical Therapy
Overview of Field
According to the American Physical Therapy Association, Physical therapists are movement experts who improve quality of life through prescribed exercise, hands-on care, and patient education.
Many patients have injuries, disabilities, or other health conditions that need treatment. But PTs also care for people who simply want to become healthier and to prevent future problems.
Physical therapists examine each person and then develops a treatment plan to improve their ability to move, reduce or manage pain, restore function, and prevent disability.
Students complete a three-year doctoral program to earn the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.
Career Exploration
Physical therapists provide care for people in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, schools, sports and fitness facilities, work settings, and nursing homes.
Applying to Physical Therapy programs
You are not required to select a particular undergraduate major in order to be eligible for admission to a DPT program. The most common undergraduate majors among PT students include exercise science, biology, kinesiology, and psychology.
Many PT Programs utilize a centralized application service called The Physical Therapist Centralized Application Services (PTCAS).
Many DPT programs have multiple deadline dates (i.e., preferred, priority, or early decision) or operate on a rolling admissions process.
Pre-requisite Completion
The University of Louisville wants to support you with your career goals! Many of your required pre-requisites for your pre-health path can be completed right here at UofL in conjunction with your current academic program plan. Meet with your academic advisor for more information. In addition, consult the specific program you are applying to for pre-requisite requirements.
Many programs require applicants to have a certain number of volunteer or paid experiences working with patients under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist.
Entrance Exam
Many PT programs will require the GRE. Check exact requirement listed on specific program website.
Getting Involved
UofL Student Involvement Recognized Student Organizations (RSO's):
- Multicultural Association of Pre-Health Students
- Allied Health Club
- Alpha Epsilon Delta
- Sports Medicine Interest Group
These student organizations are active as of Fall 2023. You can find all active student organizations by visiting engage.