Does Flagler College have a physical therapy program? Flagler College is a reputable institution that delivers liberal arts education in St. Augustine, Florida. But if what you want is a physical therapy (PT) program, you might be curious whether Flagler College has a physical therapy degree or a physical therapy-related program.
While Flagler College does not have DPT programs, it does have bachelor degree programs in health-related fields that would make a good foundation for a future in the field of physical therapy.
We will look at what programs, alternative routes, tuition rates, and how to become a PT after attending Flagler College.
Does Flagler College Have Physical Therapy Program?
No, Flagler College does not have a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) or a dedicated undergraduate degree in physical therapy programs.
But, if you are interested in becoming a physical therapist, you can begin by pursuing inter-related majors that satisfy the prerequisites for professional DPT programs.
Health-Related Programs at Flagler College
- Exercise Science (B.A.): Includes human movement, kinesiology, and sports medicine topics important in PT school.
- Psychology (B.A.): Offers knowledge about behavioral health, useful for PTs working with diverse patient populations.
- Health & Wellness (Minor): Focuses on public health, nutrition, and fitness.
- Pre-Health Pathway: Advising and prerequisites for students designing for graduate programs in health care, including PT school.
If you are determined to be a physical therapist, you can do a pre-PT program at Flagler College and then transfer to a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program elsewhere.
What Majors at Flagler College Prepare You for Physical Therapy School?
Speaking of notice, Flagler College does not possess or offer a physical therapy diploma; students are able to decide on probable majors that demonstrate grounds for the PT college entrance requirements.
Best Undergraduate Majors for PT School at Flagler College:
1. Exercise Science (B.A.)
- Covers human anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics.
- Prepares students for DPT program coursework.
- Suitable for pupils interested in sports therapy or rehabilitation.
2. Psychology (B.A.)
- Reveals patient behavior and mental health.
- Useful for pediatric, geriatric, and neuro-rehabilitation therapy.
- Advised for students interested in working in behavioral health and PT.
3. Biology (B.A. or B.S.) (Offered through partnership schools)
- Provides a strong foundation in human sciences.
- Fulfills core DPT prerequisites such as biology, chemistry, and physics.
- Suitable for students intending to take up medical and rehabilitation careers.
If your aim is for PT Exercise Science, Steering Exercise Science, or a length of time through a pre-health track, it could support assists to measure up to race requirements for PT university.
How Can You Become a Physical Therapist After Attending Flagler College?
Since Flagler College does not have a DPT program, a student needs to obtain a bachelor’s degree and apply to a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.
Steps to Become a Physical Therapist After Flagler College:
1. Earn a Relevant Bachelor’s Degree
- Get a degree in pre-health track or Choose Exercise Science, Psychology,
- Take prerequisite courses for DPT programs (biology, chemistry, physics, and anatomy).
2. Gain Clinical Experience
- Work or volunteer at physical therapy clinics, hospitals, or sports rehab centers.
- Almost all DPT programs require 100+ observation hours or more.
3. Apply to a DPT Program
- Determine DPT programs with CAPTE accreditation (Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education).
- Take the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) if required.
- Submit applications through PTCAS (Physical Therapy Centralized Application Service).
4. Complete a DPT Program (3 Years)
- Earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.
- Take courses in anatomy, neuroscience, biomechanics, and clinical practice.
5. Pass NPTE and Licensure
- Take the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
- Get a state license to practice as a physical therapist.
Going to Flagler College is a good initial step to take toward a PT career, but you will need to go on into a DPT program after that.
What Are the Best Physical Therapy Schools Near Flagler College?
Since Flagler College does NOT have a DPT program, students need to apply to graduate physical therapy schools only after earning their bachelor’s degree.
Top Physical Therapy Schools Near Flagler College:
- University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (St. Augustine, FL)
- University of North Florida (Jacksonville, FL)
- University of Florida (Gainesville, FL)
- Florida Gulf Coast University (Fort Myers, FL)
- Florida State University (Tallahassee, FL)
These schools have accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs and are great choices for Flagler College graduates.
How Much Does It Cost to Become a Physical Therapist After Flagler College?
Becoming a physical therapist involves undergraduate and graduate education, which comes with tuition expenses.
Estimated Costs for a PT Career Path:
1. Undergraduate Degree at Flagler College:
- Tuition: $21,800 per year (before scholarships).
- Total for 4 years: $87,200+.
2. Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program:
- Public Universities: $40,000-$90,000 total.
- Private Universities: $70,000-$150,000 total.
3. Cost of becoming a PT:
- $120,000-$250,000 for both undergrad and grad school.
Scholarships, financial aid, and student loans can provide funding assistance to the students wishing to study physical therapy.
What Careers Can You Pursue With a Flagler College Degree?
Even if you do not choose to follow in and pursue the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Flagler College’s Exercise Science and Psychology majors track students to a variety of other career paths.
Alternative Career Paths After Flagler College:
- Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA): Needs field experience for 2 years, an aide license, and dispenses physical therapists.
- Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA): Works within the rehabilitation facilities.
- Athletic Trainer (ATC): Focuses on sports medicine and injury prevention.
- Health and Wellness Coach: Focus on health, fitness, rehab, and long-term overall wellness.
- Kinesiology Specialist: Works with movement therapy and rehabilitation programs.
If you seek PWD DO (Alternative Healthcare Career), Flagler College offers exercise science and health and rehabilitation alternative career pathways.
Should You Go to Flagler College If You Want to Be a Physical Therapist?
If your dream is that of becoming a licensed physical therapist (PT), Flagler College could be a solid foundation, but you will have to go get your DPT at another institution.
Pros of Flagler College for Pre-Physical Therapy Students:
- Has Exercise Science and Pre-Health Pathways that lead to PT school.
- Petite classes let there be one-on-one advising.
- Located near top physical therapy schools in Florida.
Cons:
- No Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.
- Students must either transfer to or apply to other graduate PT schools.
If you have interest in PT school following Flagler College, then it is a good pre-PT program.
Conclusion
While Flagler College does not have a major in physical therapy, those who wish to be PTs can choose to study exercise science, psychology, or the pre-health pathway to prepare for DPT school.
After earning an undergraduate degree in Florida, students can initiate the application process for Florida physical therapy programs or across the nation.
With the right coursework, clinical experience, and graduate school applications, Flagler College can serve as an excellent stepping stone toward a rewarding career in physical therapy.
