Physical Therapy FAQs
Admissions
Which courses are required to enter a physical therapy program?
Applicants should review the PTCAS Directory for program-specific details and contact programs directly to determine whether a
particular course will fulfill a prerequisite. Please review the course prerequisite
summary at www.ptcas.org/ProgramPrereqs/.
What is the typical profile of a successful physician therapy program candidate?
Most PT programs have minimum grade point average (GPA) requirements. These minimum scores vary by institution and may be low as compared with the average GPA of applicants offered admission. The average overall undergraduate GPA for accepted PTCAS applicants in 2011–12 was 3.52. Most PT programs require applicants to complete the Graduate Records Exam (GRE). Most programs require applicants to have a certain number of volunteer or paid physical therapy experiences working with patients under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. The program may specify the setting and types of experiences required. For more information, please visit www.ptcas.org/Directory/.
What does PTCAS mean?
PTCAS is a centralized application service that streamlines the admissions process for many PT programs.
When should I apply?
Apply early! Many PT programs have multiple deadline dates (preferred, priority, or early decision) or operate on a rolling admissions process. More information at www.ptcas.org/ptcas/public/deadlines.aspx?listorder=date&navID=10737426786.
Who can I talk to on campus about my interest in becoming a physical therapist?
Your HPAC advisor or the Chair of HPAC or Sarah DiPasquale in the Dance Department.
Who do I contact to find out more about the articulation agreement with Russell Sage College?
Your HPAC advisor or the Chair of HPAC or Sarah DiPasquale in the Dance Department.
Occuptional Therapy FAQs
Academics
Which courses are required to enter an occupational therapy program?
Each school has its own admissions requirements and students should research their programs of interest carefully. “Common prerequisite requirements for entry into an OT program may include (but are not limited to) biology, anatomy, physiology, psychology, sociology, human development, and statistics.” (National Association of Advisors for the Health Professions, 2013)
Admissions
What is the typical profile of a successful applicant?
In addition to prerequisite requirements, the Graduate Records Exam (GRE) is an admission
criterion and some (paid or unpaid) experience in working with people in a health
or OT setting.
Applicants seeking a career in occupational therapy should possess strong interpersonal
skills, an ability to work in teams, and a desire to help others. Additionally, being
a creative problem-solver, a good listener, and a resourceful and compassionate person
with an interest in health, science, and the arts are also desirable qualities … Entry
into occupational therapy programs is competitive. Specific programs can be found
through the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).
(National Association of Advisors for the Health Professions, 2013)
What does OTCAS mean?
OTCAS stands for the Centralized Application Service for Occupational Therapy (OTCAS). Applications are submitted through OTCAS and/or directly with the school you would like to attend.
When should I apply?
Early application is recommended as many programs only take a handful of students. Applications are generally submitted between July and November for the following academic year.
Who can I talk to on campus about my interest in becoming an occupational therapist?
Your HPAC advisor or the Chair of HPAC or Sarah DiPasquale in the Dance Department.
Who do I contact to find out more about the articulation agreement with Russell Sage College?
Your HPAC advisor or the Chair of HPAC or Sarah DiPasquale in the Dance Department.