Physical therapy class requirements are the specific courses you must complete before applying to a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. These typically include biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology, with labs often required. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) sets guidelines for these prerequisites.
Most DPT programs require similar science coursework. Biology, chemistry, and physics are universal, with many programs requiring labs. For example, the University of Pittsburgh's DPT program requires:
Some programs accept online labs, but others mandate in-person labs. Always check program-specific requirements.
Beyond core sciences, most programs require psychology, statistics, and anatomy/physiology. Some also require kinesiology or exercise physiology. For instance, New York University's DPT program requires:
These courses ensure students understand human movement, behavior, and data analysis-critical skills for physical therapists.
Many programs require English composition, medical terminology, and social sciences. These courses develop communication skills and cultural competency. For example, the University of Southern California's DPT program requires:
These classes help future physical therapists communicate effectively with patients and understand societal health factors.
Most DPT programs require observation hours in clinical settings. These hours provide hands-on experience and confirm your interest in physical therapy. The APTA recommends at least 100 hours, but some programs require more. For instance, Boston University's DPT program requires 60 hours of observation.
Most programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0, though competitive programs may require higher. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is often required, with average scores around 150 for verbal and quantitative sections. For example, the University of Delaware's DPT program accepts applicants with GPAs as low as 2.8 but prefers higher.
I applied to several DPT programs and found that meeting these requirements early gave me more time to prepare for the GRE and gain observation hours. Starting early also helped me secure strong recommendation letters from professors and clinical supervisors.
Some students assume all DPT programs have identical requirements. However, prerequisites vary. For example, some programs require biochemistry, while others do not. Always verify requirements with each program.
Another misconception is that observation hours can be completed in any healthcare setting. Many programs specify that hours must be completed in physical therapy clinics. For instance, the University of Florida's DPT program requires observation hours in outpatient physical therapy settings.
Meeting physical therapy class requirements is the first step toward becoming a licensed physical therapist. Once admitted, you'll complete a rigorous DPT program, including clinical rotations. After graduation, you'll pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to earn your license.