How do I Choose the Best Physical Therapy Graduate School?

There are four items to consider when choosing the best physical therapy graduate school: graduate programs, admissions requirements, accreditation, and faculty. A physical therapy graduate school is usually organized within the faculty of medicine. Physical therapy at the graduate level is very research focused. The primary item to consider is your level of qualification for graduate school and the area of research that most interests you.

Deciding on the best physical therapy graduate school is a difficult process, as this is a specialized program, available at a limited number of universities. Look at the area of focus for the different schools, as part of the decision-making process. The use of physical therapy is expanding and there are a large number of fascinating research topics available to be explored. Look at the current focus of the faculty and find a school that will be supportive of your theories.

In order to qualify for admission to a physical therapy graduate school, a combination of high marks in an undergraduate degree and letters of recommendation are required. Schools that offer a physical therapy graduate school program have invested significant resources and funds into creating research facilities. If any of your course marks are low due to a personal or health-related issue, be sure to include that information in your application. If you don't have the very best marks in your class, think about applying to schools that offer programs you are interested in. Look for an institution that will challenge you, but also allow you to experience success.

When looking for a graduate school, check the accreditation status of the school. An accredited school has been reviewed by an independent third party. Courses from an accredited school can be transferred to other post-secondary institutions or to other programs. Accredited schools are able to offer students access to government student aid programs.

Most graduate schools provide the biographies of their faculty or course instructors on their website. The information provided typically includes the academic credentials, research focus, publications, and any awards they have received. Take a close look at the recent publications from the different schools. Determine the primary area of research for the instructors and think about which school can provide the best fit for you.