Stevenson University

What you'll study

Coursework emphasizes foundational science and movement-related subjects that DPT programs typically expect. Typical topical areas include:

• Human anatomy and physiology (sequence courses covering body systems)
• Biomechanics/kinesiology and exercise science principles
• General and organic chemistry or chemistry for health sciences
• Physics with applications to human movement
• Developmental and abnormal psychology, and communication skills
• Statistics or research methods relevant to evidence-based practice
• Supervised clinical observation hours and shadowing in physical therapy settings

Entry requirements

Students enroll in the pathway while pursuing an undergraduate degree at the university; there is no separate graduate-level admission. Requirements typically include completing specified prerequisite courses with competitive grades, securing supervised observation hours in physical therapy clinics, and working with pre-health advisors to assemble a strong DPT application. Specific minimum grades, course sequences, and advising milestones vary by institution and intended graduate programs.

Career prospects

The pre-PT pathway itself does not confer a professional license; its purpose is to position students for admission to accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy programs. After completing a DPT and licensure, career outcomes include clinical physical therapist roles in outpatient orthopedics, acute care, rehabilitation hospitals, pediatrics, sports medicine, geriatrics, research, and academic or administrative positions within health systems.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Undergraduates following the pre-physical therapy track should explore university merit and need-based scholarships, departmental awards for health-science students, and external scholarships targeted to pre-health or rehabilitation-focused students. For the DPT degree, students can consider graduate fellowships, loan repayment programs for service in underserved areas, and professional association scholarships; planning early and consulting financial aid advisors helps align funding strategies across undergraduate and graduate study.