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Pre-Physical Therapy

Program

Your Path to Physical Therapy School

Major in a science you love, complete the prerequisites DPT programs require, and graduate ready to apply.

Pre-physical therapy at Goshen College is a pre-professional track, not a major, that prepares you for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs. You major in biology, exercise science, or a related science while completing the prerequisite courses DPT schools require. And you do all that with individualized advising and small classes to prepare you for your next professional steps.

You will build a foundation in anatomy, physiology and patient care, surrounded by an academic community that values health and care.

  • 91%
    of Goshen classes have fewer than 30 students, so faculty know you by name.
  • 93%
    of graduates are employed, in graduate school, or in service within a year.
  • 297
    Number of NAIA scholar-athletes in last five years

    Majors That Pair With Pre-Physical Therapy

    Pre-physical therapy builds on a science major. Most students choose biology or exercise science, but several health-sciences paths line up with the prerequisites DPT programs want. Pick the one that fits you, then work with your advisor to map your specific path. 

    • Exercise Science

      A common home base for future physical therapists, athletic trainers, and strength and conditioning professionals.

    • Biology

      A strong foundation in anatomy and physiology for the prerequisite courses DPT programs require.

    • Public Health

      Pair patient care with prevention and community health if you want a wider view of wellness.

    • A Goshen College soccer player smiles

      Physical Education

      Build the skills to promote health, movement, and lifelong wellness alongside your pre-PT prerequisites.

      Get the Observation Hours DPT Schools Want

      You will gain experience through internships and job shadowing in healthcare settings. Goshen’s closeness to area hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers lets you observe licensed professionals in action, exactly the kind of hours DPT programs ask for.

      Goshen’s closeness to area hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers lets you observe licensed professionals in action, gaining the kind of field experience DPT programs ask for.

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      Where Pre-PT Graduates Go

      Graduates of the program have gone on to Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs and now work in hospitals, sports clinics, private practices, and rehabilitation centers across the country. A Goshen College science degree with a pre-physical therapy focus prepares you for graduate school and a career as a:

      • Athletic Trainer
      • Occupational Therapist
      • Physical Therapist
      • Physical Therapy Assistant
      • Rehabilitation Specialist

      Common Questions About Pre-Physical Therapy Track

      Ready to get started?

      Related majors & minors

      All Majors & Minors
      • Exercise Science

        Whether you aspire to be a physical therapist, athletic trainer, strength and conditioning coach, or another fitness professional, this program provides the foundation you need to succeed.

      • Nursing

        As a nursing major at Goshen College, you'll study in new state-of-the-art facilities and join a program with a rich history of excellence.

      • Physical Education

        As a physical education major or minor at Goshen College, you’ll gain the skills to promote health, movement and lifelong wellness in ways that truly matter.

      • Pre-Dentistry

        At Goshen College, pre-dentistry students receive an education rooted in scientific excellence, community values and hands-on learning.

      • Pre-Medicine

        With a rigorous academic foundation, extensive hands-on learning opportunities and supportive faculty mentors, our program is designed to prepare you for the academic and personal demands of medical school.

      • Pre-Pharmacy

        Whether you plan to become a clinical pharmacist, work in pharmaceutical research, or manage a community pharmacy, GC prepares you for the next step with relevant coursework, hands-on learning and mentoring from faculty who care about your success.

      • Public Health

        Whether you plan to work in community health, epidemiology or health policy—or pursue graduate study in public health, medicine or healthcare administration—being a public health major or minor at Goshen College will prepare you to make a meaningful impact.

      • Undecided

        Choosing to be undecided means being intentional about finding a path that’s right for you.