A pre-physical therapy student works with a patient to build strength through boxing work with pads. A pre-physical therapy student works with a patient to build strength through boxing work with pads. A pre-physical therapy student works with a patient to build strength through boxing work with pads.

Pre-Physical Therapy Pathway

What is pre-physical therapy?

Pre-physical therapy is a pathway designed for students who want to pursue a career in physical therapy, providing the foundational knowledge and skills needed for graduate education in this field.

Physical therapy focuses on preventing and treating illnesses, injuries and physical dysfunctions that lead to movement disorders or disabilities. Physical therapists are skilled healthcare professionals dedicated to helping patients restore and maintain their physical function. They are creative problem solvers who work to improve patients' quality of life and engage in education, research and health promotion.

If you're interested in this field, our pre-physical therapy pathway is a great starting point. Our program will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for graduate education in physical therapy. While following our curriculum, you can choose a major that interests you, all while preparing to make a significant impact in the lives of many people.

Program Snapshot

Program Type: Full-Time
Location: On Campus
Program Length: 4 years

Studying pre-physical therapy at CMU

The core coursework for our pre-physical therapy pathway includes anatomy, physiology, chemistry, physics, psychology, exercise science, statistics and math. You can also join extracurricular activities, like volunteering or doing research, to build your knowledge in physical therapy.

Since pre-physical therapy isn’t a specific major, you’ll need to choose a major and complete the prerequisite courses needed for PT school. Here are a few choices:

Courses What Will Transfer DEPARTMENT INFORMATION

What to expect in our pre-physical therapy pathway

As a pre-physical therapy student, you'll:

  • Build a supportive community: Live among your peers in a dedicated living learning community right on campus, fostering connections and collaboration.
  • Access advanced facilities: Utilize top-tier resources, including our College of Health Professions' human performance laboratory, biomechanics laboratory, anatomy lab with computerized enhancements and the Interprofessional Education and Practice Center featuring several simulation suites.
  • Participate in professional organizations: Join registered student organizations that provide valuable professional and personal experiences, preparing you for a future in physical therapy.
  • Explore financial support options: Take advantage of various scholarships designed to support you financially throughout your academic journey.

Physical therapy careers

Physical therapists help people with injuries or illnesses improve movement and manage pain. They play a crucial role in rehabilitation and treating chronic conditions. Pre-physical therapy prepares students for this career, focusing on early intervention and effective patient support.

Career Projected Salary
Physical Therapist
$99,710
A pre-physical therapy student works with a patient to build strength through walking with a belt and walking sticks.
A group of students from the Pre-Physical Therapy club at Central Michigan University pose for a group photo outside. They are all standing on a bridge with trees and water behind them.

Connect and grow with our pre-physical therapy club!

Our club is a great way for students interested in PT to connect. It offers insights on graduate applications, majors and specialties; hosts guest speakers; and organizes social events, fundraisers and volunteer opportunities each semester!

Join Pre-PT club

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