What Classes to Take to Become a Physical Therapist?

Physical therapists work in demanding environments, dealing with patients to improve or repair their muscular mobility. Most patients suffer from debilitating injuries or diseases that affect the functioning of their bones, joints or nerves. Learning how to effectively treat these conditions involves intense study and a thorough knowledge of how the body functions.

Science

As a physical therapy student, the bulk of your coursework will consist of science classes. Students preparing to go into this field need one year of these science-related courses: biology, anatomy and physiology, chemistry, physics, and microbiology.

Math

In addition to passing college-level mathematics, physical therapy students are required to pass a statistics course.

Psychology

Physical therapists deal with clients' emotional well-being as well as physical. During your studies, you are required to complete a minimum of three courses in psychology.

GPA Requirements

Completing the required courses to become a physical therapist is only the beginning. To gain acceptance into programs leading toward a master's degree or doctorate in physical therapy, you must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.0. (See Resources for colleges that offer physical therapy programs and their educational requirements.)

Years of Schooling

To become a licensed physical therapist, you must hold either a master's degree or a doctorate from an accredited university. Usually these programs require a four-year undergraduate degree along with training in post-graduate programs. Once you have completed your educational requirements, you must pass state and national examinations to receive licensing.

Resources

• Description of Physical Therapy
• Physical Therapy Schools in the United States of America