Physical Therapy

DUAL DEGREE
PRE-PT TO DOCTORATE OF PHYSICAL THERAPY

About This Program

Program Contact

Kathy Pappas
Admissions Chair
Department of Physical Therapy
(413) 748-3590
kpappas2@springfield.edu

Curriculum and Delivery

  • Courses offered on campus in Springfield, Mass.
  • Graduate level coursework includes content in anatomy, neuroanatomy, kinesiology, clinical sciences, organization and delivery of healthcare, research methodology, and statistics, as well as full-time clinical experiences in approved clinical education facilities
  • Clinical content is taught by licensed physical therapists who are experts in their specialty area
  • Benefit from hands-on learning in our state-of-the-art physical therapy labs, which include both human anatomy and simulation labs
  • Participate in service learning projects, such as the on-campus community mobility clinic and community exercise groups
  • Become eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE),  which is required to become licensed as a physical therapist

Resources

Career Opportunities

Paying for Your Education

Did You Know?

We offer a dual degree Dance/Pre-PT to DPT

Upcoming Events

Sunday, October 29, 2023 at 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1nCqOj8oFsW3td0HQun6Y6cxBparJb0TT?usp=drive_link

The Bachelor of Science in Health Science: Pre-Physical Therapy to Doctor of Physical Therapy at Springfield College can be completed in only six years. Coursework in physical therapy enables students to develop advanced problem-solving skills in examination, program planning, and treatment of those who need physical therapy services.

The program integrates the humanics philosophy in total patient care, including the intellectual, physical, and spiritual aspects of treating the whole person within a social, political, and economic context.

Graduates possess a broad knowledge in the science and practice of physical therapy, as well as a clinically based understanding of administration, research, and evidence-based practice. In addition, students have the opportunity for advanced study in selected areas of physical therapy. 

As an undergraduate student, you will begin with three years of study in the health science/pre-physical therapy track, which includes prerequisite courses for your Doctor of Physical Therapy studies and the general education requirements taken by all college students. To add to your educational experience, we require that all students complete a minor of your choice, and Springfield College offers more than 20 to choose from.

Once all of the basics are behind you, you'll be ready for the professional preparation of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program. You'll take foundational science, research, and patient management courses. Our Global Health Service Learning course offers a unique and optional opportunity in all three years of study.

Entering into the professional coursework from the pre-physical therapy program is seamless. You’ll advance into the professional Doctor of Physical Therapy component upon completing the required courses, and meeting our academic standards. There is no formal re-application process. And, with program outcomes like ours, you can enter into this program knowing you'll find success. 

Physical Therapy Major

Zach Varnauskas '21

"I am proud of my classroom accomplishments and leadership experiences I gained at Springfield College. The lessons and skills I learned helped me become confident in my interpersonal skills and communication skills when working with patients. Springfield College taught me to work in a team setting, and be able to build rapport with my patients. I have found great success providing care for my patients with therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and modalities. I value evidence-based practice and am eager to participate in continuing education via mentors and post-graduate courses in order to become the best physical therapist I can become. The Springfield College physical therapy program is the best, the faculty members provide the perfect amount of support to get you ready for a career as a PT."

Zach Varnauskas
Physical Therapist, Access Physical Therapy & Wellness, Inc. 

Zach Varnauskas in cap and gown holding diploma.
Coming 2023

The New Health Sciences Center at Springfield College

The new Springfield College Health Sciences Center will empower transformative approaches to education, career enhancement, service, research, and leadership in healthcare. The Center will build on the success of the School of Health Sciences, and ensure its standing as the leading choice for the finest students, faculty, and staff.

An architect's rendering of the health science center at Springfield College
Physical Therapy Accreditation

The Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Springfield College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia, 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 413-748-3590 or email jchevan@springfield.edu

Incoming first year Springfield College students participate in June Orientation on Alden Street
Core Curriculum

Our curriculum is designed in faithfulness to the Springfield College mission and to further strengthen the Humanics philosophy of educating students in spirit, mind, and body.

Student at the Learning Commons
Career Center

The Career Center’s mission is to educate, inspire, and empower students and alumni to effectively make well-informed career decisions. The staff is committed to student learning and development, and offers a variety of opportunities and programming for students and alumni.

The Academic Success Center offers readily and easily accessible services including support in writing, mathematics, science, subject area tutoring, learning strategies and time management counseling, and assistance for students with documented disabilities.
Academic Success Center

The Academic Success Center offers readily and easily accessible services including support in writing, mathematics, science, subject area tutoring, learning strategies and time management counseling, and assistance for students with documented disabilities.

American Council of Academic Physical Therapy Member Institution