Pre-Physical Therapy

Choosing a Major 
Upon starting your undergraduate education, one of the first decisions you are faced with is choosing a major. Physical therapy programs do not require applicants to complete a specific undergraduate major, as long as they have completed the required prerequisite coursework. It is important to choose a major that you both enjoy and can excel in academically.

In addition to selecting a major of your choice, you have the option to select the UCCS Pre-Physical Therapy Track. Pre-Physical Therapy Preparation 2025-26

IMPORTANT: UCCS does not have a physical therapy program. Pre-Physical Therapy Track is not a major or minor, but a listing of requisite courses and recommendations needed to be eligible for admission into CU School of Medicine’s Physical Therapy program at the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, CO. Contact Admissions | CU Doctor of Physical Therapy

Other schools may have different requirements, so students should check admissions requirements for all schools to which they plan on applying. APTA - Program Requirements

*Completion of requisite coursework does not guarantee acceptance into any professional degree.

For information about the CU PT Early Admit Program at UCCS, visit: PT Early Admit Program at UCCS

Preparation for Physical Therapy (PT) school benefits from a clear, structured approach that balances strong academics, experiential learning, and thoughtful application planning. While each student’s path to PT school is unique, developing a personalized timeline can be helpful for planning how coursework, experiences, and application preparation fit together throughout the undergraduate years. 

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) provides resources to help guide students through the PT school application and admissions process, including general timelines and preparation recommendations.

• Suggested Timeline for Future Physical Therapist
• Admissions Process for Doctor of Physical Therapy Education Programs | APTA

In addition, when preparing to apply, students must organize official transcripts, secure letters of recommendation (often from licensed physical therapists, faculty, or supervisors), write a strong personal statement, and complete a centralized application.

Physical Therapy School Centralized Application Service: 

Most Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs in the United States use the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS). PTCAS allows applicants to submit one primary application to multiple PT programs through a single platform. The application includes academic history, prerequisite coursework, experiences, observation hours, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.

PTCAS helps streamline the application process, but each PT program may have additional requirements, such as supplemental applications, fees, or specific deadlines. Applicants are responsible for reviewing each program’s admissions page carefully to ensure all requirements are met.

Helpful PTCAS resources include:

• PTCAS Applicant Help Center & FAQs (Liaison)

• PTCAS Program Directory (APTA)

• PTCAS Deadlines Calendar (APTA)

In addition, while most accredited PT programs participate in PTCAS, a small number may have additional or alternative application steps. Applicants should always verify application procedures directly with each program.

From the perspective of Physical Therapy (PT) programs, clinical experience and shadowing are distinct but complementary types of exposure to the profession:

• Shadowing refers to observing a licensed physical therapist in a variety of settings—such as outpatient clinics, hospitals, or rehabilitation centers—without direct patient care responsibilities. Shadowing allows students to learn about the PT role, understand typical workflows, and see patient interactions firsthand.

• Clinical experience involves more hands-on involvement in patient care, often under supervision, and may include assisting therapists with exercises, supporting patient mobility, or participating in administrative or therapeutic tasks. While students are not performing independent physical therapy, clinical experience provides a deeper understanding of the professional responsibilities and day-to-day challenges of the field.

PT programs admission requirements for shadowing and clinical experience can vary widely. Many programs ask for documented observation or shadowing hours, often ranging from 50 to 200 hours or more.  While clinical or patient care experience can enhance competitiveness, schools value experiences that demonstrate commitment, professionalism, and exposure to diverse patient populations. Applicants should carefully review each program’s website to confirm the specific number and type of hours required. APTA - Program Requirements

Physical Therapy Resources

• Physical Therapists : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
• Becoming a Physical Therapist | APTA
• Pre-Physical Therapy Preparation 2025-26
• APTA - List of PTCAS Programs
• APTA - Program Requirements
• APTA - PT Observation Requirements by Program
• PTCAS Quick Start Guide and FAQs - Liaison

UCCS Resources

• Pre-Health Society
• Global Medical Brigades