Physical Therapy Program
Pre-professional track
Physical therapists diagnose and treat patients who have conditions or health problems that limit mobility and affect daily activities. They work with patients to develop rehabilitation plans to restore physical functioning and prevent future injury.
As a physical therapist, you can find a career in health care, education, athletics, industry, and beyond. You'll be a critical figure in creating health care policies, setting standards in the healthcare field, and contributing to professional and community health, wellness, and fitness organizations.
Hamline’s pre-physical therapy advising program prepares you to be a competitive applicant for graduate school. You'll have hands-on experience in the skills you need for a career as a physical therapist, as well as support in applying to physical therapy postgraduate programs.
Prerequisite coursework
Most physical therapy programs require two semesters of biology, general chemistry, and physics; anatomy and physiology; statistics; and psychology or social science coursework. They also typically require a minimum of 100 hours of physical therapy work, volunteer, or observation experience. We advise students to check admission requirements for the schools of their choice for more specific prerequisite lists.
Relevant exams
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test is required by most programs.
Degree programs
The doctor of physical therapy (DPT) is typically a three-year degree program focused on coursework in biology, histology, anatomy/physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, neuroscience, pharmacology, pathology, behavioral sciences, communication, ethics, management, finance, sociology, clinical reasoning, and evidence-based practice. Twenty percent of the curricular time is spent in clinical work. Further education may include clinical residencies or fellowships.
Application resources
Related majors
Contact information
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Undergraduate Admission
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