What classes should you take in college to prepare for physical therapy?
To become a physical therapist, you will need to first complete a bachelor's degree program, typically in exercise science or kinesiology. During this time, you should take courses in:
* Anatomy and Physiology: These courses will give you a detailed understanding of the human body, including the bones, muscles, nerves, and organs.
* Biomechanics: This course will teach you about how the body moves and how forces affect the body.
* Kinesiology: This course will teach you about the science of human movement.
* Motor Learning: This course will teach you about the process of learning and performing motor skills.
* Neuroscience: This course will teach you about the nervous system and how it controls movement.
* Pathophysiology: This course will teach you about the causes and effects of disease and injury.
* Pharmacology: This course will teach you about the different drugs used to treat pain and inflammation.
* Psychology: This course will teach you about the psychological aspects of pain and rehabilitation.
In addition to these core courses, you may also want to take courses in:
* Business Administration: This course will teach you the basics of business management and finance, which can be helpful in managing your own physical therapy practice.
* Communication: This course will teach you how to effectively communicate with patients, colleagues, and other professionals.
* Ethics: This course will teach you about the ethical dilemmas that physical therapists may face.
Once you have completed your bachelor's degree, you will need to complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. DPT programs are typically three years long and include coursework in:
* Advanced Clinical Practice: This course will give you the opportunity to work with patients under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist.
* Diagnostic Imaging: This course will teach you how to interpret X-rays, MRIs, and other diagnostic images.
* Electrotherapy: This course will teach you about the different electrical stimulation techniques used in physical therapy.
* Geriatrics: This course will teach you about the special needs of older adults who are undergoing physical therapy.
* Orthopedics: This course will teach you about the different orthopedic injuries and conditions that can be treated with physical therapy.
* Pediatrics: This course will teach you about the special needs of children who are undergoing physical therapy.
* Research: This course will teach you about the research process and how to conduct clinical research studies.
After completing your DPT program, you will need to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) in order to become licensed as a physical therapist.