About this major
Physical Therapy focuses on diagnosing and treating individuals who have physical impairments due to injury, illness, or disability. Students learn about human anatomy, therapeutic exercises, and rehabilitation techniques to help patients improve mobility and manage pain.
Student Reviews Summary
Curriculum snapshot
Human Anatomy
Covers the structure of the human body and its systems, essential for understanding physical therapy interventions.
Kinesiology
Explores the principles of body movement and mechanics, crucial for developing effective physical therapy treatments.
Therapeutic Exercise
Focuses on exercise techniques and prescriptions to improve patient mobility and strength.
Neuroscience for Physical Therapy
Examines the nervous system's role in movement and rehabilitation, providing a foundation for treating neurological conditions.
Pathophysiology
Studies the functional changes in the body resulting from disease, important for understanding patient conditions.
Clinical Practicum
Offers hands-on experience in a clinical setting, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Career outcomes
- Physical Therapist
- Rehabilitation Specialist
- Sports Therapist
- Orthopedic Therapist
- Pediatric Physical Therapist
Pros
- High demand due to aging population and increased awareness of physical health.
- Opportunities to make a tangible difference in patients' lives.
- Diverse work settings including hospitals, clinics, and sports facilities.
Considerations
- Requires a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree for entry-level positions.
- Physically demanding work that may involve lifting patients and standing for long periods.
- Need for continuous education to stay updated with new techniques and technologies.
Similar majors
Occupational Therapy
Focuses on helping patients perform daily activities independently and safely, complementing physical therapy's focus on mobility.
Kinesiology
Studies human movement, providing a foundation for careers in physical therapy and sports science.
Exercise Science
Emphasizes fitness and exercise programming, beneficial for roles in rehabilitation and athletic training.
Sports Medicine
Combines principles of medicine and exercise science to treat athletes, overlapping with physical therapy for sports injuries.
Nursing
Provides comprehensive patient care, including rehabilitation support, aligning with physical therapy in patient recovery.