Physical Therapy

Physical therapists help injured or ill people improve their movement and manage their pain.

Checkout KU's Physical Therapy Program

Physical Therapy at a Glance

Physical Therapists diagnose and treat patients who have medical problems or injuries that limit their abilities to move or function in their daily lives. Patients will typically come to a physical therapist after being referred by their primary physician. Physical Therapists work with people who have experienced an injury or disease that has affected their movement and range of motion. 

Pre-Admission Coursework:  Check Sheet (PDF), Accessible Check Sheet (PDF)

References: KU requires at least three references and one must be from a PT.  Other programs have similar requirements. 

Shadowing Experience or Introductory Course:  For KU, experience with a PT is highly recommended (working, volunteering, or shadowing) and one of the references must be from a PT.  Other programs typically require or recommend experience with a PT. 

Healthcare Experience: Recommended and should include patient contact 

Community Service/Leadership Experience: Recommended 

Research Experience: Not required 

Pre-Admission Standardized Tests: KU does not require the Graduate Record Exam (GRE), but it is required by some programs 

Student Organizations: Pre-PT Club, International Pre-Health Sciences Organization, Delta Epsilon Mu (co-ed healthcare fraternity), University of Kansas Women in Medicine, Future Leaders in Healthcare 

Application Window: July 1-November 15 (these dates vary a bit from year-to-year) 

Resume Required: Yes 

Centralized Application Service: Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS)   

Early Decision Option: No 

Interview Required: No 

Rolling Admissions: Applicants are encourage to apply early and are accepted before the November 15 deadline.  Final decisions are made by the end of January.