Physical therapists specialize in diagnosing, treating and preventing musculoskeletal and neuromuscular disorders that can impair physical function. By enhancing strength, endurance, coordination, flexibility, joint range of motion and providing training for mobility and independence in the home and throughout the community, physical therapists can improve the quality of life for many people. Most schools offer a master’s degree, but there are a few doctoral programs. Due to the wide applicability of this profession, job opportunities from students who graduate from PT school include work in hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics and corporations. The Exercise Physiology major was designed for students planning to pursue a career in physical therapy.
Continuing Education at Southwest Baptist University
Eligibility: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a cumulative 3.25 GPA in all the prerequisite courses.
This means at least a “C” or better in all of these courses. Additional requirements include up to 40 hours
of a shadowing experience in physical therapy and demonstrating computer literacy. Students must also
complete the GRE and the PT application through PTCAS by the deadline of the intended enrollment date.
Internships and Clinical Experience
Drury also strongly recommends that students spend time in a clinical setting. The experience that the student gains will not only give them a better understanding of the physical therapy profession, but these experiences let physical therapy schools know that an applicant has firsthand knowledge of the profession. A Drury University student has the advantage of contacts with the local alumni, who can provide some students with both shadowing opportunities and, in some cases, internships. Other internships can be arranged through the Office of Career Planning and Development.
