High School Senior With Some Questions

[dolphinsfan]

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Until yesterday, I was dead set on doing medicine, but after thoughtful conversations with my family, I began to rethink my decision. I think I would enjoy going to work and my lifestyle more as a PT.

But I still don't know how it works.

I am going to go to UCF next year and probably major in Sports and Exercise Science.

So.......what are the pre-reqs that I will need to get into most DPT schools?
Do they accept AP Credit for a class like AP Chem?

Then I apply to a DPT school which takes like 3 years, right?

So, can I work as a paid PTA then? Is that common?

Also, do they give scholarships for good students in grad school?

Thanks in advance. I might have some questions later but this is the main things for now

 

[dolphinsfan]

One more question.....Is there a residency aspect after DPT?

 

[CherokeeWahine]

Just sent you a PM 🙂

 

[goyo1010]

Have a look at these articles here on SDN about the Physical Therapist Admissions Process:

Part1
http://studentdoctor.net/2011/10/the-physical-therapy-admissions-process-part-1/

Part 2
http://studentdoctor.net/2011/11/the-physical-therapy-admissions-process-part-2/

To answer your questions quickly:

So.......what are the pre-reqs that I will need to get into most DPT schools?
See the articles, and some of the pre-reqs are program specific.

Do they accept AP Credit for a class like AP Chem?
PT school is a 3 year program after a typical 4 year undergraduate degree, although there a some exceptions. Many undergraduate universities accept AP credits such as AP Chemistry. And if the undergraduate did accept that AP credit for a college chem class, then it is most likely the PT program will accept that. However, check with the program directly.

Then I apply to a DPT school which takes like 3 years, right?
During the summer before your senior year is when you'd typically start the application process. Most are 3 years, but can vary between 2.5-3 years.

So, can I work as a paid PTA then? Is that common?
You may, but is not necessary. Most schools recommend not working during the 3 year program.

Also, do they give scholarships for good students in grad school?
Yes, but availability and eligibility are program dependent.

Is there a residency aspect after DPT?
There are residencies available, but a residency is not required to practice. This is mostly if you want extra exposure in a certain specialty. There is some debate as to whether we should be required to do a residency first.

If you have any more questions, don't hesitate to PM me and any others on here.

Best of luck.

Also, these types of questions are best suited in the Pre-Physical Therapy forum, fyi.