Masters in Gerontology helpful?

[Driver23d]

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Hi everyone. I recently graduated undergrad & will be applying to PT school next cycle. My pre-req GPA is relatively low (~3.10) and I may retake a chemistry class to boost it up slightly. However I was also thinking of starting a Masters in Gerontology in the hopes it would give me an edge when applying and maybe even help slightly when applying for a job after PT school. Just wanted to get everyone's opinion. Thanks

 

[bpdpt]

If PT is what you want to do, then the time and money required for the masters program probably wouldnt be worth it. Im not sure what your other stats are but your biggest concerns should be improving gpa, prereq gpa, gre, obervation hours etc. instead

 

[NewTestament]

Your question is, "is it helpful?" Of course the answer is yes. A master's degree will definitely help you. I think the question you should ask is, "what's the best way for me to get accepted to PT school?" The answer is to re-take as many pre-reqs as you can and raise that GPA to 3.5. You also need to look at you application and identify any other weaknesses, including diversity of observation hours, or a weak personal statement.

Do not get a master's in gerontology. It doesn't sound too valuable and it won't allow you to practice as a clinician. It won't make up for a low pre-req GPA.

Kevin

 

[bnwj89]

If you're asking if you should obtain a master's degree in Gerontology as an aid to get into PT school, the answer is no. Retake classes and get that GPA up

 

[Driver23d]

What about in terms of being a competitive job applicant after PT school? If 2 recent DPT graduates are applying for the same position wouldn't the one who has a masters have a slight advantage?

 

[IndianaDPT]

@Driver23d:

Rarely are two candidates equally competitive for positions, and no two candidates I've ever seen have been equally competitive in terms of DPT admissions.

I really don't see the value in a MS in Gerontology for DPT preparation. Other posters have said it forcefully -- your job is to improve your profile to be admitted. Apply broadly, improve every where you can, and be prepared to move to attend PT school.

The gerontology degree would be good if you are sure you want to work in long-term care facilities. Will it improve your PT admission chances? Depends on the program. For Indiana University, additional degrees do not play a part in the process.

Best of luck to you.

Josh Morrison
Director, Student Enrollment Services
IU School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, IUPUI
www.shrs.iupui.edu
[email protected]