Physical Therapy Program Overview

The University of Missouri’s Department of Physical Therapy offers an entry-level clinical doctorate degree. Physical therapists help restore or improve mobility, relieve pain, prevent or limit disability, and promote overall fitness and health. They are essential to the rehabilitation of people with head or spinal injuries, congenital conditions, arthritis, and neurological and musculoskeletal disorders.

Program Details

Accreditation and Features

• Accredited physical therapist education program through Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapist Education (CAPTE) since 1963
• Offers guaranteed admission to qualifying high school seniors and first-semester MU freshmen through the SHarP Scholar Program
• Innovative curriculum with team-based learning, student/faculty patient care, and real-world evidence-based practice experiences
• Abundant community services opportunities such as treating patients alongside faculty in a pro bono clinic, exercising with older adults, and helping screen older adults for fall risk

Admission Criteria

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• Summer deadline: September 30
• Minimum Language Requirements: View the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Prerequisites for the Doctoral Degree

• Admission to the DPT program is available through regular admission (applicants will have a bachelor’s degree prior to beginning the professional program) or through an early admission option that allows students to enter the professional program with 90 credit hours.
• All applicants must have at least a 3.0 GPA in the core required courses and the cumulative GPA in the last 60+ credit hours.
• On-campus interviews are required for admission to the professional program.
• Students who enter without a bachelor’s degree must have satisfied the MU general education and graduation requirements and taken two Writing Intensive courses at MU. These applicants must possess a 3.5 GPA.

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts: Upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Physical Therapy Program

• Departmental application (built into the Graduate School online application)
• 2 letters of recommendation as specified by the application guidelines
• Activities and Award Questionnaire as specified by the application guidelines
• Distinct Experiences and Attributes Essay as specified by the application guidelines
• Unofficial transcripts (Year of application, summer grades must be recorded on transcript)
• Departmental application fee

Program Structure

The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in physical therapy, including team-based learning, student/faculty patient care, and real-world evidence-based practice experiences. Clinical affiliations across the country and in a variety of settings allow students to experience firsthand the value of physical therapists in the health care arena. The faculty possesses a diversity of practice and research interests that expose students to the wealth of opportunities in this profession.

University of Missouri Columbia

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Overview:

The University of Missouri Columbia, also known as Mizzou, is a public research university located in Columbia, Missouri. It is the flagship institution of the University of Missouri System and is renowned for its comprehensive academic programs, vibrant student life, and strong research focus.

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Services Offered:

The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic Advising:

Providing guidance on course selection, degree planning, and career exploration.

Financial Aid:

Offering scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities to support students financially.

Career Services:

Assisting students with career planning, job searching, and internship opportunities.

Health Services:

Providing medical, dental, and mental health care to students.

Student Life:

Organizing various clubs, organizations, and events to enhance the student experience.

Library Services:

Offering access to a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Mizzou boasts a vibrant and diverse campus community with numerous opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities, connect with peers, and explore their interests. Students can participate in over 600 student clubs and organizations, attend sporting events, enjoy live music performances, and explore the city of Columbia.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Reputation:

Mizzou is recognized for its high-quality academic programs and its commitment to research excellence.

Affordable Education:

The university offers a competitive tuition rate and generous financial aid options, making it an accessible choice for students.

Vibrant Campus Life:

Mizzou provides a dynamic and engaging campus environment with numerous opportunities for students to connect, learn, and grow.

Research Opportunities:

Students have access to cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities to collaborate with renowned faculty.

Career Preparation:

The university offers comprehensive career services and resources to help students prepare for their future careers.

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Academic Programs:

Mizzou offers over 300 degree programs across various disciplines, including:

Arts and Sciences:

A wide range of majors in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.

Engineering:

Programs in various engineering fields, including mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering.

Business:

Programs in business administration, accounting, finance, and marketing.

Journalism:

Renowned for its journalism school, offering programs in print, broadcast, and digital media.

Nursing:

Highly regarded nursing programs, preparing students for careers in various healthcare settings.

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Other: