Thoughts on CSCS before PT School? Ways to strengthen app?

[Antsi3]

Hey guys,
So I'm off for a year before hopefully starting PT school in Fall 2018 and I was looking for ways to strengthen my application. I'm currently an aide in inpatient setting and will have close to about 1000 hours by the time I apply and will be taking the GRE around May. I was looking into the CSCS certification and wanted to know if I should go for it during my time off, will it increase my chances of getting in to the program, or should I go for any other certification, etc.? Any input is appreciated.

Thank you.

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[mattyboy11]

Hey guys,
So I'm off for a year before hopefully starting PT school in Fall 2018 and I was looking for ways to strengthen my application. I'm currently an aide in inpatient setting and will have close to about 1000 hours by the time I apply and will be taking the GRE around May. I was looking into the CSCS certification and wanted to know if I should go for it during my time off, will it increase my chances of getting in to the program, or should I go for any other certification, etc.? Any input is appreciated.

Thank you.

As someone who thought the same way and went through with the same idea, I would say pursue the CSCS certification if you actually plan to use it for work. If not, save your money as it is expensive. The things to set you apart from other applicants is mainly your GRE, cum GPA, and prereq GPA. Other things such as observation hours/volunteer experiences, extracurriculars, and certifications aren't weighed as much but are definitely still considered. I feel as though my CSCS had no affect in PT school's decisions. I hope this helped.

 

[zuc]

Don't do it unless you plan to actually use it for work. While CSCS can be really useful and gives you a different perspective in physical therapy, I really doubt schools care about your CSCS at all in admissions.

 

[Antsi3]

As someone who thought the same way and went through with the same idea, I would say pursue the CSCS certification if you actually plan to use it for work. If not, save your money as it is expensive. The things to set you apart from other applicants is mainly your GRE, cum GPA, and prereq GPA. Other things such as observation hours/volunteer experiences, extracurriculars, and certifications aren't weighed as much but are definitely still considered. I feel as though my CSCS had no affect in PT school's decisions. I hope this helped.

Thanks for the input. Just really nervous about getting in!

 

[DPT0311]

I think that it can strengthen your application in the extracurricular/ certification section. Each school evaluates their applicants differently, but I don't see a CSCS certification making up for a low score in one of the big three (GPA, GRE, pGPA). it does provide the school with some insight of your background knowledge and your personal interests though.

I could be bias. I plan to take the CSCS in between my undergrad and PT school because I'm interested in the subject and would like to see if I can find my way into a sports PT or military special warfare PT career pathway. If you want my advice: It definitely won't hurt your application. And if it's something that you are passionate about, GO FOR IT!

 

[Dinked]

I would use that time to retake a few classes or study more for your GRE's, like others have said nothing else will trump (GPA, GRE, etc) unless you have a Masters or PhD already.

 

[nd_dpt]

CSCS certification will not help you get into school. Be more productive with your time. Study for the GRE and get observation hours in settings that are different than your job. 1000 hours in one setting is not as impressive as someone who has less hours in multiple settings.

 

[Antsi3]

CSCS certification will not help you get into school. Be more productive with your time. Study for the GRE and get observation hours in settings that are different than your job. 1000 hours in one setting is not as impressive as someone who has less hours in multiple settings.

Makes sense. Appreciate it!!