What Physical Therapists Do?
Physical therapists are movement experts who improve quality of life through prescribed exercise, hands-on care, and patient education.
Physical therapists diagnose and treat individuals of all ages, from newborns to people at the end of life. Many patients have injuries, disabilities, or other health conditions that need treatment. But PTs also care for people who simply want to become healthier and to prevent future problems.
Physical therapists examine each person and then develops a treatment plan to improve their ability to move, reduce or manage pain, restore function, and prevent disability.
Physical therapists can have a profound effect on people’s lives. They help people achieve fitness goals, regain or maintain their independence, and lead active lives.
Visit ChoosePT.com, APTA’s official consumer information website, to learn more about the benefits of physical therapy.
What should I major in?
Although the majority of Physical Therapy Schools do not require a specific undergraduate major, due to the academic preparation required for the Physical Therapy School application, the most common PrePhysical Therapy majors at NMSU are: Kinesiology and Athletic Training
Required Courses:
General Biology (BIOL 2610G/2610L and BIOL 2110G/2110L)
General Chemistry (CHEM 1215G and CHEM 1225G)
Physics (PHYS 1230G/1230L or PHYS 2230G/2230L & PHYS 1240G/1240L or 2240G/2240L)
Human Anatomy & Human Physiology: BIOL 353/BIOL 353L and BIOL 354/BIOL 354L) *UTEP will accept the NMSU SPMD 2210/2210L and SPMD 3210/3210L
Statistics (MATH 1350G or A ST 311G)
Psychology (PSYC 1110G, PSYC 302. PSYC 350 and/or PSYC 351, CEPY 1120G)
Recommended Courses:
Calculus I Public Speaking Developmental Psychology Cell Biology Microbiology Organic Chemistry Sociology Exercise Physiology
*Although coursework listed is recommended by most Physical Therapy Schools, admissions requirements may vary from school to school. Please check specific physical therapy school admission websites for detailed prerequisite requirements.
