Best Pre-Physical Therapy Colleges?

Hi everyone! I'm a junior in high school and I'm very interested in majoring in pre-physical therapy in college. Could anyone suggest some of the top colleges for pursuing pre-physical therapy? Also, what should I concentrate on in my application to get noticed by these colleges?

Hello! It's great that you're already thinking about your college major and exploring pre-physical therapy programs. When considering colleges for pre-physical therapy, it's important to look for schools with strong programs in fields like biology, kinesiology, or exercise science since these subjects will prepare you for physical therapy school.

Some top colleges for pre-physical therapy programs include:

1. University of Southern California (USC) — Offers a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology with a subplan in Applied Physiology

2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) — Offers a Kinesiology major

3. University of Michigan — Offers a Bachelor of Science in Movement Science

4. University of Wisconsin–Madison — Offers a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology

5. Boston University — Offers a Bachelor of Science in Human Physiology

As you work on your application, it's essential to focus on a few key aspects:

1. Academics: Pursue a rigorous and well-rounded high school curriculum, especially in the sciences. Taking courses such as biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy, and physiology can demonstrate your interest in and commitment to the field.

2. Extracurriculars: Participate in activities related to your passion for physical therapy. This can include shadowing physical therapists, volunteering at hospitals or rehabilitation centers, or becoming a certified personal trainer. Also consider participating in sports or athletic clubs to show how dedicated you are to the subject matter.

3. Letters of Recommendation: Request letters from teachers, particularly those in science courses, who can speak to your academic abilities and passion for a career in physical therapy. It's also helpful if you can get a letter from someone in the field, such as a physical therapist you've shadowed or worked with.

4. Personal Statement: Write a compelling essay about why you want to pursue a career in physical therapy. Share personal experiences, insights, or pivotal moments that inspired your interest in the field. Make sure your passion and motivation come through in your writing.

5. Supplemental Essays: If your chosen colleges require supplemental essays, take the opportunity to elaborate on your interest in physical therapy and any steps you've taken to explore or prepare for this career.

By focusing on these areas and demonstrating your commitment to a career in physical therapy, you'll increase your chances of gaining admission to top pre-physical therapy programs. Best of luck with your applications!