So I'm interested in the U of Minnesota, U of Missouri, UW-Madison, and UW-Milwaukee. I haven't seen these schools in any of the threads so far and just wanted to find out some information from those of you who may know anything about these schools. Any info would be very helpful (quality of program, faculty, facilities, campus, cost of living, etc.). Thanks!
I'm a PT1 at UW-Madison. I too was in the same boat as you were in less than a year ago. I was accepted to UW, but knew very little about the program. Here's a brief lowdown......
Program and Faculty
The curriculum is similar to the majority of other PT programs out there. First year is pretty much your basic sciences (gross anatomy, neuro, kinesiology/biomechanics) as well as some introductory courses in PT (anatomical applications, clinical medicine, research literature, documentation/evaluation type class). Additionally, we have a two week internship early second semester to get our feet wet.
Second year is spent taking what we learned in the first year and applying it to clinical situations.......neuro, ortho, peds.
Third year is spent exclusively on four eight-week clinicals.
The faculty's top-notch. Amazingly, every one of them is approachable, and they all have the students' best interest in mind. They really want us to succeed, and will do anything they can for it to happen. Additionally,there are a slew of research projects going on within the department, the med school and engineering school that PT students can get involved in.
Facilities
The facilities where our classes are held are older but very well maintained. They're definitely not on par with a program such as USC. Many of the research facilities are located outside the building where our classes are held and are state of the art.......med school, medical clinics, biomedical engineering dept. Being a part of the medical school, we have similar resources available to those in the MD program......definitely a plus!
Madison
I came to school here after living in LA for 17 years (going back afterwards). Madison's an awesome town.......only place in the state I'd live in. There's quite a bit of diversity and tons of things to do. if you're a sports fan, you can't beat being a student here........football, basketball, hockey! Also, if you live a healthy, active lifestyle, chances are you'd enjoy the city. Two of my favorite things to do, at least during the warmer months, are cycling and going to the numerous farmer's markets in the area. The cost of living is also very reasonable, especially if you're coming from a big city. Can easily get a nice studio/one bedroom for $500-600/month.
Anyway, that's kind of a brief lowdown on UW and Madison. I can't comment on the other schools you listed, but I can give you a comparison to a few private schools that I chose UW over. Don't know if you're a WI resident or have reciprocity. if you are, you cannot beat the price!