What are the best PT schools in Cali?

[mm883]

Hi,

What are everyone's thoughts on the best PT schools in Cali? I realize USC is #1 but it is also very costly. How about Samuel Merritt, St. Augustine, CSU, etc? I also was wondering what people have to say about San Diego State University.

Thanks!

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[Azimuthal]

They are all accredited. Look into costs.

 

[pubicsymphysis]

Doesn't matter about rankings. Find a school that best fit you + low tuition cost.

 

[mm883]

Thank you guys for the feedback; I guess I have gotten sidetracked with the rankings of schools, which of course would lead me to favor USC (#1).

 

[Kepania]

Samuel Merritt! Okay, so I am a little biased because I go there, but hear me out. After our first year of classroom study, we do a full time two month rotation (internship basically). I just finished mine and my CI (clinical instructor) said that not only was I one of the best students he's ever had, but that Samuel Merritt students typically are of a higher caliber than other students. He also believes that Samuel Merritt has quietly emerged as THE BEST program in the state. This coming from someone who actually graduated at the top of his class from USC. He is the most amazing and intelligent PT I have worked with thus far, and he has worked with many students, so his opinion really means something to me. Also, at USC you will have around 90 classmates. I only have 36, which allows for a much more personal experience, and more attention from our professors. Most of our professors are absolutely amazing and highly educated, and can even be fun from time to time. They must be doing something right, because they have recently become a highly competitive school. Anyway, that's my pitch. Good luck!

 

[Azimuthal]

Samuel Merritt! Okay, so I am a little biased because I go there, but hear me out. After our first year of classroom study, we do a full time two month rotation (internship basically). I just finished mine and my CI (clinical instructor) said that not only was I one of the best students he's ever had, but that Samuel Merritt students typically are of a higher caliber than other students. He also believes that Samuel Merritt has quietly emerged as THE BEST program in the state. This coming from someone who actually graduated at the top of his class from USC. He is the most amazing and intelligent PT I have worked with thus far, and he has worked with many students, so his opinion really means something to me. Also, at USC you will have around 90 classmates. I only have 36, which allows for a much more personal experience, and more attention from our professors. Most of our professors are absolutely amazing and highly educated, and can even be fun from time to time. They must be doing something right, because they have recently become a highly competitive school. Anyway, that's my pitch. Good luck!

That's the problem with anecdotes, because I've heard the opposite from my own CI, ;-). To blatantly say that only one program stands out amongst the others in CA is more than a little bias but I understand your position. Supporting your academic institution means they're doing something right. But for those reading this, do your research. Every program has their strength and weaknesses. Most of the schools in CA are >95% NPTE pass rate.