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The Best Physical Therapy Programs

Physical therapists help people with injuries or disease to have better function and mobility. They do this by using certain kinds of exercise, electrical stimulation, ultrasounds and massage. Physical therapy programs offer master's degrees and doctoral degrees, which qualify students who graduate to work in hospitals, clinics, schools or homes. These programs teach students to give each patient a personalized treatment program to improve his health.

  1. Sacred Heart University

    • Sacred Heart University has a physical therapy program that's the best in Connecticut, according to U.S. News and World Report. This school offers a doctorate program and a physical therapy program consisting of three years of graduate course work for students who choose undergraduate majors. Sacred Heart's program prepares students for professional practice with their professional curriculum, which includes academic and clinical course work. Full-time clinical work has to be completed for at least eight to 10 weeks during the summer months between the first and second years. This program is fully accredited at the Connecticut Department of Education and the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education.

    University of Southern California

    • The University of Southern California is another of the best schools for physical therapy programs. The small size of their classes is an advantage for students to receive individualized instruction. Students must complete 124 credit hours of coursework. Studies last for 31/2 years and include clinical skills. This physical therapy program entails an independent research project concentrating on clinical practice that is completed by each student. USC also gives graduates the chance to extend their education in the doctor of physical therapy program.

    University of Pittsburgh

    • The University of Pittsburgh has been rated second in the nation by U.S. News and World Report for its physical therapy program. It's a full-time program for three years, and the last year is a paid clinical internship. You can also earn a doctor of physical therapy degree. Some of its curriculum includes science-and-practice and courses in musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary, geriatric and pediatric physical therapy. The clinical education program is incorporated with the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and the Centers for Rehab Services. The physical therapy program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.

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