Physical Therapy, AS

Physical therapists (PTs) are movement experts who optimize quality of life through prescribed exercise, hands-on care, and patient education, teaching patients how to prevent or manage their condition so that they will achieve long-term health benefits. PTs examine each individual and develop a plan, using treatment techniques 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.

This program is designed for students who intend to transfer to a four-year college or university. Requirements may be updated prior to the start of the Fall 2023 semester. Students completing this program should consult a counselor or advisor to develop their degree plan and for registration advice.

Associate of Science

Required Courses

Course NumberTitleCredits
BIO 101Cellular Biology

4

CHM 100Fundamentals of Chemistry

4

CHM 150Fundamentals/Organic Chemistry

4

ENG 110College Writing I

3

or

ENG 160College Writing & Research

4

ENG 111College Writing II: Literature

3

MATH 150College Algebra

4

MATH 152Trigonometry

3

MATH 220Probability & Statistics

4

PHY 111College Physics I

4

PHY 112College Physics II

4

PSY 150Introductory Psychology

3

PSY 160Human Growth & Development

3

SOC 102Principles of Sociology

3

or

SOC 103Contemporary Social Problems

3

or

SOC 201Intro to Cultural Anthropology

3

Humanities/Fine Arts

6

Other Cultures

3

Political Science

3

US Cultures

3

Wellness/Physical Education

2

Total Credit Hours: 63

Transfer Notes: This degree program transfers to a bachelor’s degree in health services or health sciences. Students transfer into the bachelor's degree prior to application to the doctoral level degree in physical therapy. All physical therapy programs have competitive admission requirements, such as grade point average, grades in specific prerequisite courses, letters of recommendation, and volunteer experience.