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Pre-Physical Therapy Program
Physical therapy continues to be a thriving profession for students to pursue beyond college. Practitioners as well as their patients experience the rewards that come with helping a body heal.
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Program Overview
At Dordt, we've set up our program after carefully researching the requirements of many schools of physical therapy. We continue to revise it as we see their requirements change. We'll prepare you well for the challenges of the profession. We'll also help you see the satisfaction that comes with serving people in a way that helps them live their lives in a more enjoyable way.
Our Pre-Physical Therapy program is grounded in a comprehensive Christian education that prepares you for your profession. It also prepares you to live as a Christian in God's world. Through our program, you'll find:
A specialized and carefully researched pre-physical therapy curriculum
Strong biology, chemistry, psychology, and exercise science classes
A mentorship program pairing beginning students with advanced students and students with alumni
Hands-on learning through labs with licensed physical therapists
Clear guidance from advisors set in the context of a comprehensive core education
Our Pre-Physical Therapy program can be taken as an emphasis in biology, exercise science, and psychology.
What can I do with a degree in pre-physical therapy program?
Pre-Physical Therapy at Dordt will help you prepare for a career in or related to the physical therapy field. This foundation will set you up for success whether you pursue further education or enter the workforce. You may enjoy a career as a physical therapist, a dietitian, a physical therapist aide, or a recreation worker. Whatever you choose to do professionally, Dordt’s Pre-Physical Therapy program will prepare you for the next steps.
Physical Therapist
A Physical Therapist help patients with the rehabilitation process by improving or managing their pain while evaluating and recording their progress along the way.
Athletic Trainer
Athletic Trainers provide treatment and rehabilitation to their patients as well as conduct workshops and other sports medicine educational programs.
Physical Therapy Assistant
A Physical Therapy Assistant helps treat patients and guide them through the rehabilitation process under the supervision of a physical therapist.
Career Preparation
Dordt University's 2023 Career Outcome Rate was 99.4%! “This data point tells us that Dordt graduates are prepared for the careers of their choosing,” said Amy Westra, director of Career Development. “A Dordt education provides students with industry-relevant courses and connections that make a difference.”
Pre-Physical Therapy Program
Our pre-physical therapy program is grounded in a comprehensive Christian education that prepares you for your profession while preparing you for living as a Christian in God's world. You'll find:
- A specialized and carefully researched pre-physical therapy curriculum.
- Strong biology, chemistry, psychology, and exercise science classes.
- A mentorship program pairing beginning students with advanced students and students with alumni.
- Hands-on learning through labs with licensed physical therapists.
- Clear guidance from advisors set in the context of a comprehensive core education.
Our pre-physical therapy program can be taken as an emphasis in biology, exercise science, and psychology
Studying science alongside history, English, communication, philosophy, psychology, and the arts—all taught in the light of God's Word—will help you understand how you can most effectively serve as a physical therapist. The knowledge you gain in your courses will teach you to understand the needs and concerns of others. The skills you gain will prepare you to help people through your work.
Every professional school has their own entrance requirements, so at Dordt, students work with the pre-professional advisors to determine which courses they need to prepare them for their professional school.
Through a combination of professional development, career exploration, academic success, social, and networking activities, the Pre-Health Professions Club (PHPC) helps pre-physical therapy students work together to make the most of their undergraduate years and prepare for the next steps in their education and their eventual place in the exciting and dynamic field of physical therapy. To learn more about how to get involved in PHPC, please contact PHPC@Dordt.edu or feel free to join us at any of our events or meetings.
Ready to take the next step?
Faculty
With experience in a variety of fields, our faculty members are equipped and ready to help you succeed.
Science and Technology Center
As a Pre-Physical Therapy Major, you'll have the opportunity to spend time in Dordt's Science and Technology Center. Informally known as the "Science Building", the Science and Technology Center is home to Dordt's 180-seat lecture hall.
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Student Stories
Dordt students and alumni use their gifts to make a difference in the world. Check out their stories to see how Defender Nation lives out our mission to work effectively toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life.
An Edge on the Competition
Siennah StamnessDespite the many challenges Siennah faced in college, she was always supported by Dordt's community and was able to develop meaningful relationships, grow in confidence, and make Dordt her home away from home in her four years here.
Siennah Stamness
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Submit your information to request more information about Dordt and this program. We'll also use this information to connect you with your admissions counselor!
Plus, we'll send you our e-book, "Top Things to Consider in a Pre-Physical Therapy Program." 🙌
Related Program Options
Still looking for the right fit? Here are some additional program options that we think might interest you or are often paired with this program. You can also view the programs page to keep exploring your options.
