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

(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 Health Science / Pre-Physical Therapy undergraduate program prepares undergraduate students for subsequent graduate study in Physical Therapy.  Students develop a strong foundation of knowledge and skills in biological, physical, and social sciences while also acquiring a breadth of knowledge in the Humanities through the General Education program.  In addition, students complete a Minor course of study in an area of their choosing for the purposes of developing depth in an enriching and complimentary discipline.

The program in physical therapy is a six and one-half year program in which students earn a bachelor’s degree in Health Science / Pre-Physical Therapy and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.  At the end of the third year of studies, students who satisfy all pre-requisite requirements 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 while continuing with doctoral coursework.  Upon successful completion of all program requirements, the graduate is awarded a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and is eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy exam and 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 doctoral 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 clinically based understanding of administration research and evidence-based practice. 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 graduate 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, PT, PhD, MPH, OCS, Chair of the Physical Therapy Department at (413) 748-3590 or the Admissions Office at (800) 343-1257.

Download a Physical Therapy Program Checksheet