pbso
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Baccalaureate Student Organization at
San Francisco State University
Most graduate schools require that students have at least a 3.0 GPA in all Bachelor level work/or last 60 units in order to be considered for entry.
Each graduate school establishes its own requirements for entry, therefore, some schools will accept GPA's of 2.5 or 2.7 for a conditional entry. You must look at each school's bulletin to determine the specific entry requirements.
Most graduate schools require that students maintain a 3.0 GPA in all graduate course work, however, that may vary depending on the school. Check each school's bulletin to determine academic requirements.
Most PT schools require the following prerequisite coursework:
Many schools require or highly recommend:
Most graduate schools require some form of standardized entry exam. The most common requirement is the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Most schools evaluate scores from the Verbal and Quantitative Sections, however, many schools now evaluate the Analytical Sections scores also.
Many schools require at least an overall score of 1000 in two tests or a 1500 in the three test sections. Some schools require a minimum of 500 in each section.
Information about taking the GRE can be obtained from the Educational Testing Service (ETS) (510) 653-5400 or check local number ETS Special Administration (510) 654-1200. Tests are now offered by computer which will allow you to receive your scores immediately. Be sure to review information on the computer test before taking it because the format is different from the pen and paper exam.
This exam is more frequently required for entry into a psychology program, however, several PT schools use it as an entry exam.
Few schools require this exam. You may be told to take it as a specialty exam by an adviser but it will not increase chances of admission if it is not a required test.
TIPS:Do prepare. At least read through a GRE self prep book available in your library or in any book store for testing tips. Some students, especially those who have been out of school, find taking a prep course valuable.
Clinical Experience
All PT programs require applicants to have some clinical experience, either as a volunteer or as a paid aide. Check each school for specific requirements because the number of required hours varies greatly from 80 to 1000. Work must be under the supervision of a physical therapist.
Schools require clinical hours to ensure that you have a reasonably broad understanding of the field of physical therapy. Most schools do not want you to have all your clinical experience in one area, i.e., sport physical therapy.
Recommended experiences are:Working with an occupational therapist or an athletic trainer is usually not accepted as clinical experience in physical therapy
Start accumulating hours very early in your process so you aren't trying to work too many hours while maintaining a high GPA.
Be professional in manner and appearance when working as a volunteer or aide. Your attitudes may be reflected in your letters of recommendation from the clinician.
Research Experience
Many schools, especially those associated with major research universities, are looking for students who show experience or an interest in research.
If possible, work with a faculty member on a research project in some capacity. Most faculty are engaged in some level of research. Research assistant positions are often available in medical schools/research centers, particularly for students with strong basic science backgrounds. However research experience in any field is better than none. Class required research activities other than obvious independent senior research projects or master's degree research is usually unacceptable. Volunteering as a research subject is not considered a research experience.
At minimum, be able to display knowledge of the place of research in physical therapy through reading research journals, etc.
Community Service
Most schools are seeking well rounded students who show some interaction with their community. Activities such as Special Olympics, CP Games, Wheelchair Games, or community based work with persons with disabilities is recommended, however, there are many ways to show your commitment to service.
All schools require LOR. Most from faculty and clinicians. These are important. Always ask first if someone will write you a positive letter. Be sure they know you well enough to assess you. Help them write a complete letter by preparing a one page summary of your association with them and other information that may be helpful. Give clear due dates for the letters. Complete all information and provide all addressed and stamped envelopes.
Faculty and clinicians work with may students and they may not remember all the great things about you. Prepare a one page summary of your association with the person highlighting grades or papers that were particularly good.
Remind person of the dates when you were associated with him or her.
Put request for a letter on a distance folder with DUE DATES clearly marked.
Provide pre-addressed envelopes.
DO NOT EXPECT A ONE-DAY TURN AROUND FOR LETTERS!
GENERAL TIPS:
If you are returning to school after a long absence, do not return until you are ready to commit fully to the task of doing very well in your academic work.
Extensive hours of clinical experience will not make up for a poor academic record.
GPA:
Minimum 3.0 on undergraduate work (science and prerequisites).
Average GPA 3.6, Range 3.0 - 4.0
No F's
No pattern of W's
GRE:
Minimum 1500 in all three areas, 500 in each section required.
CLINICAL:
Minimum 150 hours, prefer varied experiences in acute, outpatient and rehabilitation.
LETTERS REC:
Three, two from faculty, one from clinician.
RESEARCH:
Recommended to have "hands on" work.
COMMUNITY:
Recommended highly.
Returning students should take one full semester full course load before applying.
If you'd like more specific information on this program, you can contact Sean Darling
Email: sdarling@sfsu.edu
Additional Contacts
The Physical Therapy Student Association at SFSU:
SFSU Physical Therapy Student Association
President Ryan Streeter
Email: rstreeter@hcim.com
Web: userwww.sfsu.edu/~ptsa
For information on PT Programs in the U.S.:
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