University of Central Florida

What you'll study

The curriculum emphasizes clinical competence, critical thinking, communication, patient education, advocacy and practice management. Key course topics and learning experiences explicitly listed in the program description include:

• Human Gross Anatomy — extensive cadaveric dissection totaling 12 credits in the gross anatomy laboratory.
• Pain Mechanisms and Treatment in Rehabilitation — contemporary approaches to pain sources and management in clinical practice.
• Neurologic Physical Therapy — assessment and treatment of neurologic impairments such as traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury and stroke.
• Orthopedic Physical Therapy — evaluation and management of musculoskeletal conditions common in active populations and athletes.
• Research Applications — applying scientific methods to current issues in physical therapy practice and movement science.
• Primary Care Screening — differential screening and referral practices to identify conditions requiring other medical providers.

The program also requires multiple clinical education experiences (internships) that range from eight to twelve weeks each and includes focused interprofessional education activities.

Entry requirements

Applicants must submit general graduate admissions materials plus specific items via PTCAS. The following materials must arrive to PTCAS by October 15 for consideration:

• Completed PTCAS application
• All transcripts
• GRE scores
• TOEFL and foreign transcript evaluation (if required)
• Observation hours (completed and verified)
• Letters of recommendation
• Resume (upon request)

Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Career prospects

The program prepares graduates to work across the continuum of care: acute, subacute and rehabilitation hospitals; outpatient clinics and specialty practices; private practice; Veterans Affairs and military healthcare; professional sports settings; schools; long‑term care and home health. The program highlights national licensure eligibility and professional development through organizations such as the American Physical Therapy Association.

Scholarships & funding angle

The course page does not list program‑specific scholarships. Prospective students should explore university graduate funding resources, College of Health Professions and Sciences awards, external scholarships and professional‑association grants; also consider clinical education costs and budgeting for board exam/licensure fees.