Pre-physical therapy pathway
College of Health
Get started on your path to becoming a physical therapist.
Pre-physical therapy at Oregon State
Physical therapists help people move better, recover faster and live more fully.
The kinesiology major's pre-therapy and allied health option is the most direct route to PT school, as it is designed specifically for students planning to apply to physical therapy and related programs.
When you're ready for graduate school, you can continue your path at OSU — the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at OSU-Cascades in Bend offers a fully accredited DPT program.
Is physical therapy right for you?
Thinking about physical therapy but want to learn more before you commit? Here's a look at what PTs do, how to become one and what the career path looks like.
What does a physical therapist do?
Physical therapists are healthcare professionals whose work centers on movement, rehabilitation and pain reduction.
PTs help patients recover from injury, manage chronic physical conditions and prevent disability due to disease or illness and work with people across the full lifespan.
How do I become a physical therapist?
Becoming a physical therapist requires a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from a CAPTE-accredited program. To get there, you'll first need a bachelor's degree and a strong science background as both are required for admission.
DPT programs typically take three years and combine classroom study with clinical practice. After completing your final clinical experience, you'll sit for a national licensure exam.
What is the difference between a PT and a PTA?
Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) work under the supervision of a licensed PT to help implement treatment plans and support patient care.
PTAs earn a two-year associate degree, while PTs complete a doctoral program after earning a bachelor's degree. If you're pursuing a four-year degree at OSU, the DPT path is the more relevant route.
What is the job outlook and average salary for physical therapists?
The current job outlook and median annual wage for physical therapists is available through the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Ready to start your path to becoming a physical therapist?
Decided physical therapy is right for you? Here's what you need to know to prepare a strong application to DPT programs.