Physical Therapy

Physical Therapist

By combining assessments, treatment planning, exercise techniques, and educational initiatives, physical therapists aim to help individuals regain function, reduce pain, and enhance their overall quality of life. Physical therapists are responsible for conducting thorough assessments, creating treatment plans, and developing both individual and group therapy programs with varying levels of complexity. They perform physical examinations and use specialized tests and measures to assess strength, range of motion, balance, coordination, and other relevant factors.

They utilize a range of physical therapy methods, including ultrasound, electrical stimulation, massage, traction, and hydrotherapy. Additionally, they employ various exercise techniques to help patients improve their balance and gait. Ensuring patient safety is a top priority, whether in designated treatment areas or when explaining and demonstrating physical therapy procedures to hospital personnel, students, or community members. 

Furthermore, physical therapists may provide in-service educational programs to residents and other medical professionals, teaching specific physical therapy procedures.

Physical Therapy Prerequisites

NOTE: Specific prerequisite courses can vary by school--always double-check the website of each physical therapy school you are applying to for specific requirements. Please review the CSUSB Catalog as a guide to completing the CSUSB prerequisites.

Physical Therapy Schools

• APTA Prerequisite Courses Comparison
• Physical Therapy Schools

Articulation Agreements

• Loma Linda University - Allied Health Programs (80+ programs including PT & PA)

• Western University of Health Sciences - Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) - California & Oregon

PTCAS Physical Therapy Centralized Application Service

• Physical Therapy (PTCAS) Application Instructions
• PTCAS Personal Statement