Qualified students who have entered the bachelor of science in biology program at Viterbo University and are applying to one of three programs in the School of Health Professions at Concordia University: the Occupational Therapy Program (MOT, OTDe); the Physical Therapy Program (DPT); or the Physician Assistant Program (PA) can earn priority admission status as part of a Priority Admission Pathway.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Priority Admission Pathway
Viterbo University is proud to partner with Concordia University, Wisconsin to offer a priorityadmission into the Doctor of Physical Therapy (PT) program at Concordia giving Viterbo students a clear pathway through the PT application and admission process and early, priority consideration in the interview process.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Priority Admission Pathway Requirements
Viterbo students who are on the Priority Admission Pathway must meet the following requirements:
- Majoring in Biology at Viterbo University
- Earn a C or better in all science pre-requisite coursework taken at Viterbo
- Minimum of a 3.0 cumulative GPA
- Minimum of a 3.45 GPA in the science prerequisite courses
- Taken the GRE before applying for early decision
- 40 hours of observation in a variety of physical therapy settings
- Submission of applications for early decision via PTCAS
- Satisfy all remaining requirements outlined by the Viterbo pre-health committee and Concordia University admissions
About Physical Therapy
Physical therapists (PTs) diagnose and treat individuals from newborns to the very oldest who have limitations in their ability to move and perform functional activities as well as they would like in their daily lives. They work with patients to regain or maximize movement in major extremities or regions of the body relating to the major extremities. Physical therapists examine each individual and develop a treatment plan to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability. In addition, PTs work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility before it occurs by developing fitness and wellness-oriented programs for healthier and more active lifestyles. A student in a Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) program usually completes a three-year program. There are many areas of specialization for physical therapists to choose from and a wide variety of clinical settings to practice. Many specialties require residency programs after completion of the D.P.T. Most schools require the GRE for admission. Typical admissions averages: mean overall GPA: ~3.6; mean science GPA: ~3.4. Typical GRE scores of accepted applicants include percentile scores of Verbal ~52%, Quantitative ~46%, and Analytical ~56%. The U.S. Department of Labor predicts that the profession will grow by 28% from 2016–2026. Updated job outlook data can be found at the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) provides information on application requirements, descriptions of careers, and programs in the U.S.