Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs welcome students from all academic majors, but applicants must complete prerequisite coursework before matriculation. While many physical therapy programs share similar admission requirements, prerequisites vary by institution. Students should always review the admission requirements for each DPT program they plan to apply to.
The table below outlines common prerequisite courses for many U.S. physical therapy programs and the corresponding NIU course(s).
Physical therapy program prerequisites vary by institution. Some programs require exercise physiology, psychology, medical terminology or additional behavioral science coursework. Admission testing requirements also vary, as some programs have become test-optional. Students should review the admission requirements for each DPT program they plan to apply to and meet regularly with the Pre-health Professions Program to develop an individualized academic plan.
| Requirement | NIU Course(s) | Required by Most Programs |
|---|---|---|
| General Biology I | BIOS 208/210 | Yes |
| General Biology II | BIOS 209/211 | Frequently |
| General Chemistry I | CHEM 210/212 | Yes |
| General Chemistry II | CHEM 211/213 | Some programs |
| Human Anatomy | BIOS 311 | Yes |
| Human Physiology | BIOS 355 | Yes |
| Physics I | PHYS 210 or PHYS 253 | Yes |
| Physics II | PHYS 211 or PHYS 273 | Yes |
| Statistics | STAT 200 | Yes |
| Psychology | PSYC 102 | Frequently |
| English Composition | ENGL 103 | Yes |
Many DPT programs still require the GRE, while others have adopted test-optional or test-free admissions. Always verify admission requirements for each program.
While not required by every DPT program, these courses strengthen your preparation for physical therapy school and clinical practice.
| NIU Course | Why Take It? |
|---|---|
| BIOS 311 - Functional Human Anatomy | One of the most important preparation courses for physical therapy education |
| BIOS 355 - Human Physiology | Builds a strong understanding of normal human function and movement |
| BIOS 302 - Cell and Molecular Biology | Strengthens biological knowledge applicable to rehabilitation sciences |
| BIOS 313 - Microbiology | Helpful preparation for patient care and infection prevention |
| BIOS 308 - Genetics | Supports understanding of inherited disorders and rehabilitation medicine |
| PHHE courses (Exercise Science electives, when appropriate) | Provide additional knowledge of movement, exercise and rehabilitation |
This timeline combines guidance from the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS) and has been adapted for NIU students. Individual timelines may vary depending on academic preparation and whether students complete all prerequisites before applying.
| Timeline | Recommended Activities |
|---|---|
| First year | Meet with the Pre-health Professions Program. Begin biology and chemistry coursework (if placement allows). Join a pre-health student organization. Develop strong study habits. Begin exploring physical therapy through volunteer or observation experiences. |
| Second year | Continue prerequisite coursework based on your individualized academic plan. Continue observing licensed physical therapists in a variety of settings. Explore research, leadership and community service opportunities. Develop relationships with faculty and physical therapists for future letters of recommendation. |
| Third year | Complete most prerequisite coursework. Begin GRE preparation (if required). Research DPT programs and admission requirements. Request letters of recommendation. Draft your personal statement. Meet with the Pre-health Professions Program to review your application plan. |
| Summer before application | Take the GRE (if required). Finalize your school list. Request official transcripts. Prepare your PTCAS application. |
| June–October | PTCAS typically opens in late June. Submit your application as early as possible and complete supplemental applications required by individual programs. |
| Fall–Spring | Participate in interviews (if required). Maintain strong academic performance. Continue observation hours and service activities while preparing for matriculation. |
| Gap year (optional) | Many successful applicants strengthen their applications through additional observation hours, rehabilitation experience, employment, research or graduate coursework before applying. |
Competitive DPT applicants demonstrate more than strong academic performance. Most programs expect applicants to complete observation hours under the supervision of licensed physical therapists, often in multiple practice settings, such as outpatient orthopedics, inpatient rehabilitation, acute care hospitals, pediatrics, geriatrics or sports medicine.
The following organizations provide reliable information about physical therapy education, admissions, licensure and careers.
Pre-health Professions Program
prehealth@niu.edu