Physical Therapists Career
How to become a physical therapist
Physical Therapy Programs
Before becoming a physiotherapist one has to go through one of the many physical therapy programs that are available in the US. Of course, just as is the case with any aspect of the education system there are some excellent programs, some good programs and some that are just adequate. They will all impart the necessary knowledge to practice physiotherapy but that doesn’t mean that they will guarantee finding a good job nor that the graduates will be able to excel at their job. Those attributes are more the result of a lot of work and study. However a highly competitive academic medium will ensure that you are at your peak performance and the employers will appreciate more those who have passed this test. That is why you should consider enrolling into one of the following physical therapy programs.
One of the best physical therapy programs is the one offered by the University of Southern California which is ranked by many authorities as the number 1 in physiotherapy schools. For admission you will need to provide your SAT or ACT scores with the optional written test. An additional test that will help you score better is the Advanced Placement examination results. There will also be an essay, short answers and quick tests stage that will help you interact better with the interviewing committee. And another important aspect is the summery of activities performed outside the classroom. When reviewing them the admission committee is looking for those experiences that would suggest you are able and willing to assume leadership and involvement as at USC. So if you are willing to put in the effort you can apply by email at uscpa@usc.edu, by phone at (626) 457-4240 or at http://www.usc.edu/pa.
Another one of the best physical therapy programs can be found at the University of Pittsburgh which is ranked number 2 or number 3 by the different evaluating programs. Here the application process is directed through SOPHAS and needs to be comprised of a personal statement, letters of recommendation and transcripts off all education in the Unites States. Although not required the AP examination or equivalent would represent a great boost to ensure your acceptance. Also you will need to submit your GRE scores to the Graduate School of Public Health code 4234. The entire staff at GSPH is oriented towards creating a warm, friendly and personal atmosphere so if you are interested you can contact them at (412) 624-3002, stuaff@pitt.edu or via their website at http://www.publichealth.pitt.edu/.
The Washington University in St. Louis offers Masters degrees in physical therapy programs is the direct competitor of the University of Pittsburgh physical therapy program and they usually share the second place although they can occupy alternatively the second and third place. Needless to say a Masters degree carries more weight but does come with higher requirements. In order to apply you will need to provide transcripts of completion of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, with a cumulative grade average of a B or better. You will also need to provide a personal statement letter, an essay, comprehensive resume, 3 letters of recommendation and GRE or GMAT or MCAT or the LSATs that are less than 5 years old. As you can see the requirements list is far more complex but so are the rewards. You can apply at (314) 286-1400, ptprog@wustl.edu and you should really check out the Washington University’s website on physical therapy programs at ptprog@wustl.edu.
