What you'll learn in Pre-Physical Therapy studies at UW-Platteville
Physical therapy is a dynamic healthcare profession. Physical therapists are skilled in planning, organizing, and directing programs for the care of individuals of all ages who have been impaired by disease or injury, and the need for them is projected to increase. Physical therapists perform tests and evaluations which help to establish treatment objectives for the patient. In addition, a physical therapist works with the patient to carry out the objectives in ways that are realistic and consistent with daily needs.
Pre-physical therapy programs provide the necessary science background as well as an understanding of people and society to help students qualify for the professional program.
UW-Platteville has an articulation with Clarke University. As a pre-physical therapy major, you will need to complete three years of coursework at UW-Platteville. Your first year of the Doctor of Physical Therapy coursework applies as the fourth year of coursework at UW-Platteville to complete the biology degree.
Careers in Physical Therapy
Many of the students who choose to attend pre-physical therapy schools and then go on to earn the Doctor of Physical Therapy degree do so because they want to work as a licensed physical therapist in a clinical setting. Courses covering anatomy, kinesiology, neuroscience, exercise physiology, pathology, biology, and more, all prepare aspiring physical therapists to help patients with injuries, disabilities, and other health conditions.
There are also several other potential career paths for people who attend pre-physical therapy colleges and then pursue a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Some of the careers you might consider include:
- Athletic trainer
- Coach
- Dietician
- Emergency medical technician
- Exercise physiologist
- Occupational therapist
- Physical therapist
- Physical therapist aide
- Physical therapist assistant
- Physician assistant
- Recreational therapist
Physical therapy professionals work in a variety of settings. These include hospitals and clinics, fitness centers, sports facilities, patients’ or clients’ homes, nursing homes/care centers, private sector workplaces, and more. Regardless of which career path you choose, working in a physical therapy role can allow you to have a significant impact on the lives of the people you see on the job.
Discover by doing
When you pursue a pre-physical therapy degree from UW-Platteville, you will have numerous opportunities to put what you learn in the classroom into practice. Choose from research projects, internships, university events, and more.
