Hey guys, I'm a high school junior who is planning on majoring in physical therapy. I'm particularly interested in attending college in Florida. Any suggestions on the best colleges in Florida for physical therapy? Thanks!
Hello! It's great that you're interested in pursuing a career in physical therapy and are exploring options in Florida. While you typically cannot major directly in physical therapy as an undergraduate, you will find that most physical therapy programs require a bachelor's degree in a related field before enrolling in a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. As a result, you'll want to look for colleges that offer strong programs in fields such as exercise science, kinesiology, or human biology.
With that in mind, here are a few universities in Florida with notable programs relevant to physical therapy:
1. University of Florida (UF): UF offers solid undergraduate programs in fields such as Applied Physiology & Kinesiology and Health Education & Behavior, which can be strong foundations for a future physical therapy career. Additionally, UF has a highly-regarded DPT program, making it a great place to establish connections and gain access to research opportunities in that field.
2. Florida State University (FSU): Similar to UF, FSU has a range of undergraduate programs that could help lay the groundwork for a DPT program, notably its Exercise Physiology and Human Sciences programs.
3. University of Miami (UM): UM offers a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology with various tracks to tailor your education to your specific career goals, including a pre-physical therapy track.
4. University of South Florida (USF): USF has a robust undergraduate program in Health Sciences with a focus on Physical Therapy, which offers a strong foundation for a physical therapy career. USF also offers a well-regarded DPT program.
Remember, it's essential to consider factors such as campus environment, size, location, and overall fit when choosing a college. Be sure to explore these universities' websites and visit the campuses if possible to determine which school aligns best with your needs and preferences. Good luck in your search!
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