Physical therapy improves patients’ physical functions through physical examination, diagnosis, prognosis, physical intervention, rehabilitation, and patient education. Physical therapists use evidence-based kinesiology, electrotherapy, shockwave modality, exercise prescription, joint mobilization and health education to treats conditions such as chronic or acute pain, soft tissue injuries, cartilage damage, arthritis, gait disorders and physical impairments typically of musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, neurological and endocrinological origins.
Marshall University offers a Pre-Physical Therapy pathway for students interested in pursuing physical therapy. The program provides:
- Coursework that fulfills prerequisites for entry into a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program
- Focus on building a strong foundation in the sciences, which are crucial for success in a DPT program
- Dedicated academic advising for students pursuing a career in physical therapy
- Guidance on course selection, preparation for applying to Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs and understanding the physical therapy profession
Marshall University Pre-Physical Therapy track typically involves completing undergraduate coursework that fulfills the prerequisites for entry into a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. These courses include subjects such as:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Exercise Science
Refer to the Marshall University Undergraduate Catalog for accurate course offerings.
At Marshall University, there are several student organizations focused on physical therapy and health professions. Some of these clubs include:
- Pre-Physical Therapy Club – Aims to expose students to information about career opportunities and to assist students with the graduate program application processes. The Pre-Physical Therapy Club participates in fundraising, recruitment, and community service activities.
- Health Science Club – A broader organization that supports students in various health-related fields, including physical therapy.
Explore various student clubs and organizations related to pre-physical therapy on HerdLink
Marshall University offers its own Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program through the College of Health Professions, which prepares students to become licensed physical therapists. The DPT program is a 3-year professional doctoral program that includes clinical training and prepares graduates for licensure and practice in the field of physical therapy.
- Admissions Requirements: In addition to completing the pre-requisite coursework, prospective DPT students must apply to the program, often requiring:
- A competitive GPA.
- Observation hours in physical therapy settings.
- Letters of recommendation.
- GRE scores (if required).
- Personal statements or interviews.
Marshall University’s Early Assurance Programs are competitive admissions programs designed for qualified students who are committed to a career in physical therapy.
This program is designed for highly motivated high school students (in-state or out-of-state) who have achieved the following criteria during their high school careers:
- Minimum composite ACT of 25 or SAT composite score of 1200.
- Cumulative High School GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
- Two letters of reference/recommendation from high school teachers in STEM-related courses.
- On-campus interview in January with the Doctor of Physical Therapy Admissions Committee.
You must be enrolled at Marshall University before applying to an Early Assurance Program. In addition, each program has its own eligibility, requirements and process for application, and there are continuing obligations once you are accepted into a program.
Please visit Early Assurance Programs for more information.
Start Your Pathway (PDF)
For more specific details about the pre-physical therapy track and application to the DPT program, contact the College of Science advisor:
