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Male patient working with physical therapist

Pre-Physical Therapy Program

For those who aspire to make a difference in the health and well-being of others, a pre-physical therapy education can help transform this aspiration into a career in physical therapy.  From care to supporting client-oriented care - this program can also lay the foundation for advanced study, and job opportunities, within a variety of natural science disciplines.  

 

What is Pre-Physical Therapy?

This pre-physical therapy program prepares graduates for more specialized focus in advanced graduate programs. Following a biology or chemistry degree track, the pre-physical therapy program offers a well-rounded undergraduate education preferred by most professional schools offering PT programs. Besides a focus on sciences, including physics, chemistry and biology, this pre-physical therapy program explores English, mathematics, social sciences and the humanities. 

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What Can I Do with a Pre-Physical Therapy Degree?

With a pre-physical therapy education, graduates can continue on to a professional physical therapy program or pursue a natural science discipline through their studies. Graduates have the opportunity to, ultimately, take on jobs in the field of physical therapy or within many areas of the natural sciences. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, physical therapists can earn a median wage of $128,710 annually. Besides being a lucrative job field, this area is expected to grow 18 percent by 2029—a much faster-than-average pace! Natural science managers earn a median salary of $91,010 annually, with chemists and material scientists reportedly earning an average of $80,680. Both of these areas are projected to grow at a faster-than-average growth rate of 5 percent through 2029. Career opportunities across physical therapy and natural science fields can include:  

  • Outpatient Physical Therapist
  • Registered Physical Therapist
  • Rehabilitation Services Director
  • Chemist
  • Natural Sciences Manager
  • Laboratory Director
  • Clinical Researcher

By positively impacting patient health and well-being through restoration of physical functions within the human body, a physical therapy career can be personally fulfilling as well as lucrative. Those taking on the challenges of a career in the natural sciences can also make their mark by contributing to vital medical discovery and innovation in areas such as clinical research and chemistry.  

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Is a Pre-Physical Therapy Degree Worth It?

Earning a degree with a specialized focus in pre-physical therapy will prepare you to advance studies in your areas of interest and, ultimately, build momentum toward a rewarding career.  Benefits of pursuing your pre-physical therapy education at University of the Cumberlands include:

  • Expanded career opportunities. A well-rounded undergraduate degree can expand your opportunities, whether you hope to join the field immediately or continue on with your studies and take aim at a career down the road. 
  • Dedicated advisors. Our advisors offer expertise in guiding your biology or chemistry track learning goals, from understanding the courses required for degree completion to understanding the procedures and requirements necessary for a post baccalaureate education in your field of interest. 
  • Meet your requirements. A pre-physical therapy degree can help you meet certain academic pre- reqs for entry to pre-physical therapy programs. Your pre-physical therapy program can also better prepare you for success in advanced classes in your area of interest at the graduate level.  
     

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Curriculum and Degree Requirements

In preparation for admission to physical therapy school, students should obtain a broad background in natural sciences, social studies, and humanities. Students interested in this pre-physical therapy major should consult bulletins from physical therapy schools of their choice for specific entrance requirements.

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Tuition

Costs for programs of study at University of the Cumberlands are competitive and affordable. Click here to view tuition rates and fees.

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Admission Requirements

In order to be considered for admission to this program, click here to view the undergraduate, on-campus admissions information. 

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Accreditation

Click here to view University of the Cumberlands' accreditation information. 

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Admissions Office

Contact Us

Phone:  606.539.4240
Toll-Free:  877.713.8767
Fax:  606.539.4303
Email:  admissions@ucumberlands.edu

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6178 College Station Drive
Williamsburg, KY 40769