DPT from non-science background

[cotiger]

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Hi guys.

In the postgrad process of figuring out what I want to do with my life (professional dancer for a couple of years, now in a corporate financial data job), and I've started to look into becoming a physical therapist. But before I start to get too invested in this idea, I want to make sure that it's a feasible goal. In undergrad I majored in Mathematical Economics and Dance with a GPA of 3.87, and I also scored well on the GRE: 170Q/168V/4.0W. However, I took almost none of the prereqs in college--only Gen Chem 1.

Would I be able to get into good programs after taking almost all the prereqs from either CCs or non-degree classes from local universities?

Thanks!

 

[jblil]

If you plan to leave a corporate finance gig to embark on a PT career, make sure you read this thread first:
http://forums.studentdoctor.net/threads/starting-salary-for-dpt-new-grads.931151/

 

[RunHappy]

Hi guys.

In the postgrad process of figuring out what I want to do with my life (professional dancer for a couple of years, now in a corporate financial data job), and I've started to look into becoming a physical therapist. But before I start to get too invested in this idea, I want to make sure that it's a feasible goal. In undergrad I majored in Mathematical Economics and Dance with a GPA of 3.87, and I also scored well on the GRE: 170Q/168V/4.0W. However, I took almost none of the prereqs in college--only Gen Chem 1.

Would I be able to get into good programs after taking almost all the prereqs from either CCs or non-degree classes from local universities?

Thanks!

I can only speak to my situation, but I was a communications major in college, and my undergrad gpa wasn't that great (I 3.44 I think?). I took all but one of my core prereqs at CC's… the only university classes I took were DPT program specific requirements. Your GRE scores are very good, your undergrad GPA is very good, and as long as you do well in your prereqs I think you'll be fine. Hovever, I would recommend calling the schools you'd like to apply to and see if they care where your prereqs are taken. For instance, I believe Duke says on their website that CC credits are fine, but when asked in person, they said that one or maybe two would be okay, but that most of your pre-reqs should come from a 4 year. Also, some schools require certain pre-reqs to come from a four-year.

I've already been accepted at two schools, and have an interview next week at a 3rd.
Your geographic location might have a lot to do with it. I think schools in California tend to require pre-reqs be from 4 year schools, but I really don't know. Check with the individual depts.

 

[okramango]

Most PT programs are fine with prerequisites taken at a CC, but make sure to check with any specific programs you're interested in to make sure. Your overall GPA and GRE are fantastic, so just do equally well in your prerequisites and you should have no problem getting into a good program. And by "good" program, I mean low-cost program with good NPTE first-time pass rates (which tend to be the most competitive programs). I did all my science prereqs at a CC and got into every program I applied to.

I agree with jblil about reading that thread he posted and researching the profession, to make sure you make an informed decision about this career.

 

[DesertPT]

GRE: 170Q/168V...

You'll get into a couple of schools almost just on this alone...

 

[runnerflute]

My bachelor's degree is in music performance - and the only pre-req I had in college for most of the programs was general psych. My first choice program was completely fine with me taking my pre-reqs at the CC level and I just got an acceptance from another school on my list.

However, on a whim, I decided to apply to Drexel University when completing my applications for this admissions cycle. In spite of having a 4.0 pre-req GPA (and 3.99 overall) and decent GRE scores (159V/151Q/4.0AW), I wasn't even asked to interview and I was flat out rejected. I spoke with them earlier in the semester when I was applying and they prefer to see a mix of pre-reqs taken at 4 year and 2 year colleges. So I think there were multiple factors going on so I wasn't too surprised to see the rejection letter.

Good luck as you decide how to move forward. I think with your background in dance and with your understanding of the unique needs of performing artists, you would make valuable contributions to the field.

Hi guys.

Would I be able to get into good programs after taking almost all the prereqs from either CCs or non-degree classes from local universities?

Thanks!