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Physical Therapy

Prerequisite coursework

There are ten courses that must be completed prior to beginning the program. Students who have not completed the courses may apply, if the demonstrate a plan to complete those courses before the program starts.

Accepted students will need to submit a final transcript demonstrating the successful completion of all prerequisite courses.  Courses must be completed at a regionally accredited institution, and the grade earned must be a C or higher.

Applicants will be considered to have met the prerequisites even if the courses were taken many years ago, however, with the program's academic rigor the applicant's current academic aptitude is considered.

General Biology

One semester of General Biology with lab. Human Biology and Microbiology courses with labs are acceptable.

UWL Equivalent - BIO 105

Human Anatomy & Physiology (A&P)

1 semester of Human Anatomy AND 1 semester of Human Physiology; OR a two semester sequence of combined Human Anatomy & Physiology (A&P I and A&P II). Both courses must include a lab. Exercise Physiology courses are not acceptable.

UWL Equivalent - BIO 312 and BIO 313

Chemistry

A two semester General Chemistry sequence.  Both courses must include a lab.  Organic Chemistry courses with a lab are acceptable substitutes.

UWL Equivalent - CHM 103 and CHM 104

Physics

A two semester Physics sequence that addresses the fundamentals/principles of physics. Both courses must include a lab and be math based (algebra or calculus). Biomechanics courses are not acceptable substitutes.

UWL Equivalent - PHY 103 and PHY 104

Statistics

1 semester of Statistics. Biometry/Biostats and Research Methods courses are acceptable substitutes.

UWL Equivalent - STAT 145

Psychology

1 semester of Psychology. Common examples include, General, Introductory, Developmental and Abnormal.  

Equivalent UWL courses - PSY 100, 204, 212

Sociology/Anthropology

1 semester of Sociology or Anthropology. A second Psychology course is an acceptable substitute.

UWL Equivalent - Any SOC or ANT course

Advanced Placement (AP) Credit

The program accepts Advanced Placement (AP) credit, provided the official transcript from the undergrad institution lists the credits/courses for which AP credit was granted. For example, if a student received credit for their AP Stats performance their transcript should list a Stats course for which they were granted credit, such as UWL's STAT 145.  An AP exam score alone is insufficient. It is the credits listed on the official transcript which we evaluate and apply toward prerequisite course requirements.

Latest news

New UWL research offers hope for enhanced recovery after total knee replacement

 

UW-La Crosse looks to transform lives of amputees with LEAP Program

 

Innovative program helps amputees thrive through personalized therapy

 

How UWL's new program transforms lives of amputees and PT students

 

UWL PT students enhance skills through healthcare experiences in India

 

Dr. Kernozek named to governor's healthcare task force.

 

Interview with third year student Callie Pohlman, author of the article "Effects of Body Weight Support in Running on Achilles Tendon Loading" published in the International Journal of Sports Medicine.

Want less impact on joints?  UWL PT research shows a simple cue can make a big difference.

 

Alum provides care for theater productions in the United Kingdom.  Read more in the Campus Connection

 

Virtual rehab: UWL Physical Therapy Program embraces shift to telehealth.  Read more in the Campus Connection

 

Leaving a legacy: Family scholarship supports students overcoming adversity.  Thorman Family Pay It Forward Scholarship

 

UWL PT students create programming for people with progressive neurological diseases in unique community program.  To learn more please visit EXPAND Program Video

 

EXPANDing the minds of both students and clients

 

Led by Tom Kernozek, UW-La Crosse's physical therapy program a hotbed for scientific studies.  Read more at the La Crosse Tribune

 

The UW-La Crosse PT Program has been granted the maximum 10 years of accreditation.  Read more in Campus News

 

To learn about current continuing education opportunities offered through the PT program please visit Continuing Education