What is Pre-Physical Therapy?

The pre-physical therapy program is an academic pathway for students who want to become physical therapists. You’ll choose a major you love  like kinesiology, biological sciences, or psychology  while completing prerequisites for your Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at LSU or beyond. With strong advising and a high PT school acceptance rate, you’ll leave prepared for a career in rehabilitation, sports medicine, pediatrics, orthopedics, community health, and more — all helping people regain movement and live more independently.

Program Highlights
Faculty Mentors Build strong, meaningful relationships with dedicated faculty who mentor you through challenging coursework, prepare you to apply for physical therapy school, and support your growth from day one.
Real Patient Experience Engage with real patients during your first year, gaining hands-on insight into physical therapy settings and developing confidence, communication skills, and clinical awareness early in your journey.
Exclusive Cadaver Lab Train in Louisiana’s only undergraduate cadaver lab, giving you rare early exposure to human anatomy, hands-on learning, and a competitive edge for advanced physical therapy programs.
Extensive Student Resources Access free tutoring, career services, study groups, and academic coaching — resources that help you stay on track, strengthen your skills, and prepare for competitive DPT admissions.

What You Can Do

An LSU degree opens doors to a wide range of career paths and professional opportunities. With a strong academic foundation, real-world learning, and support from a powerful alumni network, you’ll graduate prepared for success in today’s competitive job market. Whether you’re planning to work in a corporate setting, nonprofit organization, government agency, creative industry, or research lab, LSU equips you with the in-demand skills and hands-on experience employers value most.

Potential Careers

Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Neurological Rehbilitation
Pediatrics
Sports Medicine
Geriatrics
Cardiovascular & Pulmonary Rehab
Oncology Rehabilitation
Education & Research
Healthcare Management
Consulting & Medical Sales
Physical Therapy Assistant or Tech
Travel Physical Therapy

Workplace Settings

Outpatient & Inpatient Rehabilitation Centers
Skilled Nursing & Long-Term Care Facilities
Schools
Sports & Fitness Centers
Home Health
Academic & Research Institutions

Building Skills
Academic Foundations Gain a strong science foundation based in human anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and biomechanics
Communication Expertise Sharpen your ability to connect, collaborate, and communicate with patients.
Clinical Awareness Explore PT specialties and develop professional, ethical healthcare practices.
Hands-On Experience Work directly with patients and real-life clinical settings early on.
$99,700
Average alumni Pre-Physical Therapy salary 2-5 years after graduation
Advance your Career
Post-graduate education
After graduating with a degree part of the pre-physical therapy pathway, you can pursue residency, fellowship training, or PhD in rehabilitation sciences for careers in teaching, research, or advanced clinical practice.
Apply Today!