- 1). Take the necessary prerequisite courses in college. The prerequisites for physical therapy are rigorous and, in addition, it is necessary to have a very high GPA to be considered as a serious candidate. Prerequisite courses include anatomy, general biology, human physiology, chemistry, math and general physics. The prerequisite courses should be taken during your freshman and sophomore years.
- 2). Devote the junior and senior years to upper level classes. Graduate programs are interested in students whose knowledge is well rounded and thorough. Build up your knowledge by taking classes such as psychology, organic chemistry, exercise physiology, microbiology and sports medicine.
- 3). Gain additional experience through volunteer work. In addition to a high GPA, graduate physical therapy programs are interested in applicants who have hands-on experience working in physical therapy environments. Many programs require students to have 50 to 100 hours of volunteer experience. Find volunteer opportunities in your area such as comprehensive care centers, hospital physical therapy departments, and sports medicine facilities and athletic programs.
- 4). Investigate and select physical therapy programs that interest you. Go to the American Physical Therapy Association website at apta.org. to find information and requirements for graduate programs in physical therapy.
- 5). Make arrangements to take the GRE general exam. Plan to take the exam in your junior year. A high GRE score is used by many programs in evaluating prospective students. There are many books and study aids available that will help prepare you for the exam.
- 6). Request letters of recommendation from professors and supervisors. Letters of recommendation also play a crucial role in the evaluation process. Request letters from professors who are familiar with your academic achievements, work experience, and who are able to describe your personal characteristics as well. Letters of recommendation represent an honest and critical evaluation of your academic and personal credentials.
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