Program Overview

Pre-Physical Therapy Program

The Pre-Physical Therapy program at Lipscomb University is designed to prepare students for a career in physical therapy. The program provides a foundational knowledge of relevant sciences, including biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy, and kinesiology.

Program Overview

The program is led by seasoned faculty who guide students through higher-level kinesiology courses, where they evaluate, create plans for, and administer effective treatments. The faculty also serve as mentors, catalysts, and resources to help students successfully launch their careers.

Program Foundations

The program is based on the founding principles of compassion, intelligence, maturity, judgment, and commitment to people. These principles are essential for a successful healthcare career. The Health Professions Advisory Office is the home base for pre-medical or pre-healthcare students, providing guidance and support throughout their academic journey.

Courses

The program requires various courses, including:

• General Biology: Eight semester hours with labs
• General Chemistry: Eight semester hours with labs
• Physics: Eight semester hours with labs
• Human Anatomy & Physiology: Eight semester hours
• Statistics: Three to four hours
• Math: Usually through Calculus I
• General Psychology: Three semester hours
• Developmental Psychology: Three semester hours
• English: Six semester hours

Pre-Professional Programs

The Health Professions Advisory Committee (HPAC) provides advisory services for students interested in preparing for healthcare professions. The committee offers various services, including:

• Updated information about requirements for entering professional programs
• Advice about choosing a healthcare profession and alternative healthcare career options
• Workshops or other venues for preparing personal statements or goals essays
• A for-credit course on preparing to apply to professional schools
• Books and other resources to help students prepare for admission to professional programs
• Student support groups, such as the MED Club
• Information about opportunities for clinical exposure and service activities
• Online information about healthcare careers and application requirements
• Committee interviews and committee letters of evaluation
• Information about how to apply or qualify for HPAC scholarships, Ward Society scholarships, and Ward Research Fellowships

Career Paths

The program prepares students for various career paths, including:

• Physical Therapists: Help injured or ill people improve their movement and manage their pain
• Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides: Work under the direction and supervision of physical therapists to help patients regain movement and manage pain
• Athletic Trainers: Specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating muscle and bone injuries and illnesses

Related Programs

The university offers related programs, including:

• Pre-Occupational Therapy
• Exercise Science
• Biology (undergraduate, graduate, and online)
• Other undergraduate and graduate programs

Faculty

The program is led by experienced faculty members, including:

• Rebecca Claypool, Assistant Professor
• Libby McCurley, Associate Professor
• Florah Mhlanga, Vice Provost
• Kent Clinger, Adjunct Faculty
• Alan Bradshaw, Honors College Dean and Professor
• Laurel Littlefield, Professor

These faculty members bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the program, providing students with a comprehensive education and preparation for their future careers.