How do I get started with my physical therapy career?
First, find schools with degrees that interest you.  Then, request information from the departments to get started on your new career.

How should I prepare for entering a physical therapy program?
Admission to physical therapy programs is competitive; to get into your program of choice, focus on earning a high overall grade point average in college (above a 3.3 GPA) and volunteer or work as a physical therapy aide.  Some schools require up to 150-hours of clinical experience prior to admission. You'll also need letters of recommendation from physical therapists or science teachers.  In addition, most schools require a satisfactory score on Graduate Record Examination (GRE)  -- plan to take this exam in your 3rd undergraduate year.

What are the general coursework prerequisites for physical therapy programs?
All PT programs require a bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university.  A four year undergraduate degree in biology, psychology, kinesiology, or other fields related to human science or service is recommended as preparation for entry into physical therapy school.

Prerequisite Courses as An Undergraduate
No matter what the major, certain prerequisite courses are required:
Biology with lab *
Human Anatomy with lab *
Human Physiology with lab  *
Chemistry with lab   (2 courses)
General Physics with lab  (2 courses)
Statistics and calculus
Psychology  (2 courses)
*total 12 credits in biological sciences

What will I study in physical therapy school?
The curriculum varies from program to program, but in addition to the theory and practice of physical therapy, you'll study the basic medical sciences, biomechanics, neuroanatomy, pathology, and rehabilitative procedures. You'll also gain plenty of hands-on experience through clinical internship.

What degrees are offered in physical therapy?
The majority of physical therapist education programs now offer a clinical doctorate in physical therapy (DPT).   Others offer the master’s degree.