Top Physical Therapy Colleges in the US?

Hi everyone! I'm interested in majoring in physical therapy, but I'm not sure which schools in the US have the best programs. Can you guys suggest some of the top physical therapy colleges in the country?

Sure! There are several colleges and universities in the United States that are well-known for their excellent physical therapy programs. While many physical therapy programs are at the graduate level (Doctor of Physical Therapy aka DPT), some schools offer undergraduate pre-physical therapy or related health science tracks. Here's a list of some of the top colleges for physical therapy education:

1. University of Southern California (USC) - Consistently ranked as one of the top physical therapy programs, their DPT program provides a strong foundation in clinical practice and research.

2. University of Pittsburgh - The Department of Physical Therapy at the University of Pittsburgh is highly prestigious and known for both their DPT program and their research contributions to the field.

3. Washington University in St. Louis - Washington University School of Medicine's Program in Physical Therapy is renowned for its strong focus on clinical education and translational research.

4. Northwestern University - Their Doctor of Physical Therapy program is housed in Northwestern's Feinberg School of Medicine, offering students access to an extensive network of research and clinical resources.

5. University of Delaware - The University of Delaware has a combined Bachelor's and Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Students can enter the program right after high school, working as a cohort to complete their BS and DPT degrees in 6 years.

6. Emory University - Emory's Division of Physical Therapy, located within the School of Medicine, is known for its cutting-edge DPT program and commitment to patient-centered care.

7. Duke University - The Doctor of Physical Therapy program within Duke's School of Medicine focuses on a blend of evidence-based practice and innovation in rehabilitation.

Keep in mind that some of these schools offer combined undergraduate and graduate programs, while others focus on offering graduate DPT programs. For undergraduate education, you might want to major in a related field like Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or Health Sciences and then pursue a DPT. While working on your undergraduate degree, focus on building a strong foundation in natural sciences, psychology, anatomy, and other related fields.

Research each school's curriculum, faculty, clinical opportunities, and research focus to find the best fit for your career goals and interests. Good luck on your journey towards becoming a physical therapist!