Manchester’s Pre‑Physical Therapy concentration offers a carefully structured curriculum that fulfills the prerequisite courses needed for most Doctor of Physical Therapy programs. This includes comprehensive coverage of the sciences—biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology—paired with hands-on clinical instruction in orthopedic evaluation, statistical analysis, and therapeutic intervention. Coursework is designed to prepare students for both the academic rigors and real-world application required in the physical therapy profession.

Students also benefit from Manchester’s strong academic advising. Faculty members and clinical professors offer personal mentorship to ensure students are on track with course sequencing, GPA requirements, and clinical experience. From introductory courses to upper-level labs, every step is aligned to help students meet the criteria for graduate program admission. Additionally, the program emphasizes professionalism, critical thinking, and patient care readiness.

Manchester’s Pre‑Physical Therapy program is ideal for students interested in applying to DPT programs through PTCAS or other admissions portals. With early exposure to graduate-level concepts, internship placements, and guidance on certification requirements, the program fully equips students for the next phase of their physical therapy education and eventual licensure as healthcare providers.

Hands-on learning is a cornerstone of Manchester University’s Pre‑Physical Therapy program. From the first year, students participate in lab-based science courses like Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, and Exercise Physiology—gaining essential clinical knowledge and practical skills. These labs are supported by small class sizes and access to state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring students receive personalized attention and real-time application of theoretical concepts.

In upper-level coursework, students take classes like Orthopedic Evaluation and Orthopedic Intervention, where they learn how to assess injury, design rehabilitation programs, and apply therapeutic modalities. Students also complete an internship—often in hospitals, outpatient clinics, or sports medicine environments—where they interact directly with patients, perform supervised assessments, and observe licensed physical therapists at work.

These immersive experiences prepare students for the physical therapy profession by emphasizing critical thinking, patient care, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Graduates leave with the skills to succeed in DPT programs and eventually work in diverse clinical settings, such as skilled nursing facilities, rehabilitation hospitals, or private practices. The program bridges the gap between classroom education and clinical competence, setting the stage for advanced study and long-term professional success.

Graduates of Manchester University’s Pre‑Physical Therapy program typically pursue a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, which opens the door to licensed clinical practice. Once certified, physical therapists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, skilled nursing facilities, outpatient clinics, and home health services. Their responsibilities include diagnosing and treating patients with mobility issues, developing treatment plans, and improving patient quality of life.

Beyond direct patient care, physical therapy graduates may enter roles in academia, clinical research, or healthcare leadership. Others use their foundational knowledge in exercise science and health sciences to work in sports medicine, government health services, or with professional athletic teams as consultants. The bachelor’s degree concentration also supports entry into related fields such as occupational therapy, physician assistant programs, or public health initiatives.

With growing demand for professionals in the physical therapy profession, students who complete this pre‑physical therapy program are well-positioned to succeed in graduate programs and thrive in diverse healthcare environments. The program’s focus on applied learning, prerequisite course mastery, and career readiness ensures each student has multiple pathways to professional fulfillment.

Manchester University offers a comprehensive support network to help pre‑physical therapy students thrive academically and professionally. From the moment students begin their bachelor’s degree in Clinical & Rehabilitation Sciences, they are paired with experienced academic advisors and clinical faculty who guide them through prerequisite courses, credit planning, and graduate school preparation.

Faculty mentorship is a major component of the program. Professors help students identify research opportunities, prepare graduate school applications, and explore different specializations within the physical therapy profession. Dedicated career services assist students in building résumés, practicing for interviews, and refining their personal statements for DPT program applications.

Additionally, students benefit from campus-wide academic support services, including tutoring, writing centers, and leadership workshops. Manchester also hosts healthcare-related student organizations that offer peer networking, volunteering opportunities, and exposure to visiting professionals. These student groups allow pre‑physical therapy students to grow their professional network, explore various career paths, and build confidence in healthcare settings.

Together, these support services prepare students to meet the demands of physical therapy education, excel in clinical practice, and transition confidently into graduate and professional programs.

The standard application includes submission of academic transcripts, a completed application form, and any relevant test scores. While not required, completing high school coursework in biology, chemistry, and physics is highly recommended for success in this science-based professional program.

Once accepted to the university, students formally declare the Pre‑Physical Therapy concentration in consultation with an academic advisor. From there, a customized academic plan is developed, including prerequisite courses and optional electives such as behavior disorders or general biology. To remain in good standing, students must meet GPA standards (typically 2.5 or higher) and earn a grade of C or better in core science classes like Anatomy, Physiology, and Orthopedic Evaluation.

Throughout their time in the program, students work closely with faculty to meet application requirements for DPT programs, such as the PTCAS application. The university also offers resources for preparing for the GRE and organizing observation hours. Whether you’re just starting your college journey or transferring from another institution, Manchester’s pre-professional programs make it easy to begin preparing for a career in the physical therapy profession.