Physical Therapy

Degree(s): Bachelor of Science (B.S.) with a major in Pre-Physical Therapy
Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) with a major in Physical Therapy

(a minimum of 120 credit hours at the undergraduate level)
(a minimum of 115 credit hours at the graduate level)
Requirements are subject to change.

The program in physical therapy is a six and one-half year program in which students earn a bachelor’s degree in Pre-Physical Therapy and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Students enter as first-year students and immediately begin undergraduate preparatory studies that incorporate foundational sciences, social sciences, arts and humanities coursework. At the end of the third year of studies, students enter the first year of doctoral work while completing undergraduate credits. After four years, the student earns a bachelor of science degree in pre-physical therapy and continues with doctoral coursework. Upon successful completion of all program requirements, the graduate is awarded a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and is eligible to apply for state licensure.

Graduate level coursework includes content in anatomy, exercise physiology, kinesiology, clinical sciences, organization and delivery of healthcare, research methodology, and statistics, as well as full-time clinical experiences in approved clinical education facilities. The curriculum is subject to modification to ensure a comprehensive, integrated sequence of experiences leading to a physical therapy education of the highest possible quality.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education of the American Physical Therapy Association. Coursework in physical therapy enables students to develop advanced problem-solving skills in examination, program planning, and treatment of those who need physical therapy services. Graduates possess a broad knowledge in the science and practice of physical therapy, as well as a basic understanding of administration and research. In addition, students have the opportunity for advanced study in selected areas of physical therapy. The program integrates the humanics philosophy in total patient care, including the intellectual, physical, and spiritual aspects of treating the whole person within a social, political, and economic context.

Admission to the Program
Candidates applying for admission to the physical therapy program are required to have a strong background in the sciences and mathematics along with exposure to physical therapy practice in a healthcare setting. December 1 is the admissions deadline for all admissions materials for physical therapy applicants. Further details about the application procedure are available from the Admissions Office. Students already enrolled at Springfield College may transfer into physical therapy as undergraduates following an application and review by the department. Applicants from other colleges and universities are considered for admission into the professional component of the program on a space-available basis only; such applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree and satisfied all program prerequisites.

For more information about the physical therapy major, contact Julia Chevan, chair of the Physical Therapy Department at (413) 748-3590 or the Admissions Office at (800) 343-1257.

Download a Physical Therapy Program Checksheet

II. Major Requirements - Pre Physical Therapy

Program Standards

Students are required to follow the policies and procedures of the Department of Physical Therapy found in the Physical Therapy Student Handbook. Students are admitted to the physical therapy program as first-year students and are required to maintain a 3.000 cumulative grade point average to be eligible to continue into the final three and one-half years of the professional program. A grade of C or better is required in all courses. The academic records of the students are reviewed by the Physical Therapy Review and Evaluation Committee at the end of the third year to determine if the students have satisfied the requirements to advance into the professional graduate studies in Physical Therapy. This is not meant to be a secondary application process, but rather a reasonably accurate indication of success in completing a rigorous professional program.

Clinical Education Courses
Students are required to successfully complete all clinical education courses. Clinical education sites have been established throughout much of the eastern part of the United States (New England, Middle Atlantic, and Southeastern US). Selected sites have also been established in other areas of the United States. Physical therapy students are responsible for additional costs incurred during the clinical affiliations. These costs include travel, living expenses, uniforms, and compliance with selected health requirements.

Program Essential Functions and Technical Standards
Each student admitted to the program is required to complete the essential functions of the program with or without reasonable accommodation. Program essential functions include participation in classroom, laboratory, and clinical functions, as well as performance of professional functions such as examination, treatment, and education of individuals in a timely and safe manner. Minimum academic standards and technical standards necessary for completion of the program essential functions must be met for continuation in and graduation from the program. Technical standards define the individual physical, sensory,cognitive, behavioral, and social attributes or outcomes necessary to complete the program essential functions. More information on the program technical standards is available from the Office of Admissions and can be found in the Physical Therapy Student Handbook.

Academic Catalog

Physical Therapy

Download a Physical Therapy Program Checksheet

II. Major Requirements - Pre Physical Therapy

A. Core Requirements

B. Graduate Program Course Requirements

In addition, select one of the following courses:

Program Standards