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Looking for the best physical therapist programs in Tacoma WA?
This guide highlights top schools, each offering unique strengths to help you launch a successful career in physical therapy.
From comprehensive coursework to hands-on clinical experiences, discover the standout features of Tacoma’s leading PT programs.
University of Puget Sound – School of Physical Therapy Program
University of Puget Sound – School of Physical Therapy Program stands out as a premier choice among Physical Therapist Programs in Tacoma, WA. Their program aims to develop highly skilled professionals through an immersive educational experience.
- Hands-On Learning: Engage in extensive clinical experiences and internships that bridge theory with practice.
- Small Class Sizes: Benefit from personalized attention and close relationships with professors.
- Communication Skills: Emphasize written and oral communication, crucial for effective patient interactions.
- Research Opportunities: Participate in meaningful research projects that contribute to the field.
- Free Clinic Experience: Gain real-world experience at the school’s on-site clinic serving the community.
The curriculum places a strong focus on geriatric and neurologic physical therapy, ensuring students are well-equipped to handle diverse patient needs. The program’s high pass rates on the professional licensing exam underscore its quality and effectiveness.
Pierce College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Pierce College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program offers an excellent pathway for those aiming to assist physical therapists in various healthcare settings. This program provides an associate’s degree with a hybrid format combining online lectures and monthly in-person labs.
- Flexible Learning: The hybrid model allows you to balance studies with other commitments.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes both core PTA courses and prerequisite classes.
- Diverse Employment Options: Prepare for careers in settings like hospitals, sports medicine clinics, and home health agencies.
- Competitive Admissions: Secure a place by achieving a minimum grade of C+ in prerequisite courses.
- Promising Salaries: Graduates can expect competitive starting salaries, ranging from $16-25 per hour.
By partnering with Whatcom Community College, Pierce College ensures a well-rounded educational experience that sets students up for success in the field of physical therapy assistance.
University of Washington – Doctor of Physical Therapy
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at the University of Washington is a distinguished program designed to train effective physical therapists through a robust, full-time curriculum.
- Extensive Clinical Education: Offers varied clinical internships and a capstone project for practical learning.
- Interdisciplinary Opportunities: Engage in diverse clinical experiences across settings and specialties.
- Cultural Competence: Curriculum emphasizes service learning and cultural awareness.
- Admissions Requirements: Includes a bachelor’s degree, prerequisite courses, observation hours, and other essential materials.
- Tuition Details: Clear cost structure with $8,487 per quarter for residents and $13,281 per quarter for nonresidents (2023-2024).
This three-year program emphasizes research, patient-centered care, and prepares students for successful careers in physical therapy.
Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences (PNWU) is tailored for those interested in rural healthcare. PNWU focuses on community-based service-learning, research, and diverse clinical education.
- Rural Focus: Designed to address healthcare needs in rural communities.
- Research Involvement: Engage in projects at the Center for Applied Movement Sciences (CAMS).
- Community Service: Participate in initiatives serving uninsured individuals.
- Partnership with PLU: Streamlined admission process for graduates of Pacific Lutheran University (PLU).
- Admissions Requirements: Necessary courses include anatomy, physiology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and statistics.
The three-year program accepts 50 students per cohort, ensuring a focused and immersive educational experience that prepares graduates for meaningful careers in varied healthcare settings.
Continue exploring these excellent Physical Therapist Programs in Tacoma WA to find the right fit for your career aspirations.
University of Washington Tacoma – Pre-Physical Therapy Planning Program
The University of Washington Tacoma’s Pre-Physical Therapy Planning Program is designed to prepare you for entry into top physical therapy programs. This program serves as a stepping stone, offering essential guidance on the necessary preparatory coursework and additional skills needed for your future career.
- Interdisciplinary Curriculum: Courses cover medical and social issues while emphasizing cross-cultural competency, allowing you to understand and address diverse patient needs effectively.
- Academic Advising: Access to dedicated advisors helps ensure you meet all prerequisite requirements for physical therapy schools.
- Essential Preparation: High cumulative GPAs in prerequisite courses are vital for successful applications to PT programs.
- Resources for GRE: The program offers resources and guides to help you prepare for the GRE, a crucial exam for PT school admission.
By following this well-structured pre-PT program, you’ll be well-prepared to apply to and succeed in a physical therapy graduate program.
Green River College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Green River College’s Physical Therapist Assistant Program in Auburn, WA, offers a thorough approach to becoming a proficient Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA). This program grants an Associate in Applied Science degree and is designed to provide you with the skills necessary to excel in this field.
- Patient-Centered Education: Learn through comprehensive courses in anatomy, physiology, and technical physical therapy, combined with practical clinical experience.
- High Employment Rate: Graduates enjoy strong career prospects, with a high employment rate within six months of graduation.
- Rolling Admissions: The program offers rolling admissions, encouraging early application to secure a spot.
- Tuition and Fees: Detailed information on costs is available on the college’s website.
With an emphasis on hands-on experience and patient care, this program ensures you are well-prepared to work under licensed physical therapists in various healthcare settings.
University of Puget Sound – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
The University of Puget Sound’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program offers an innovative and personal approach to physical therapy education. Spanning three years, the program includes a unique on-site teaching clinic that provides free services to the community.
- Small Class Sizes: Personalized attention from faculty and a close-knit learning environment ensure a supportive educational experience.
- Clinical Electives: Third-year students can take advanced clinical electives to enhance their expertise in specific areas of interest.
- Research and Community Health: Opportunities for research and involvement in community health initiatives are integral to the curriculum.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: The program boasts a modern facility opened in 2011, providing a dedicated space for practical labs.
- Financial Aid: Various financial aid options, including scholarships and assistantships, are available to help offset tuition costs.
By offering a hands-on, community-focused experience, this program equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in physical therapy.
Tips for Choosing the Best Physical Therapist Program
Selecting the right physical therapist program involves careful consideration of several important factors. Here are some key points to help guide your decision:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) to guarantee it meets professional standards.
- Curriculum: Look for a curriculum that covers a wide range of physical therapy practices, integrating both theoretical and practical components.
- Faculty Expertise: Consider programs with faculty members who have extensive experience and qualifications in the field of physical therapy.
- Clinical Opportunities: Evaluate the quality and variety of clinical experiences offered, as hands-on practice is crucial for developing your skills.
- Financial Considerations: Review tuition costs, availability of scholarships, and financial aid options to determine the program’s affordability.
- Success Rates: Research the program’s licensing exam pass rates, job placement rates, and alumni success stories to gauge its effectiveness.
- Location: Think about the program’s location and whether it offers opportunities in settings where you would like to practice, such as urban or rural areas.
By focusing on these factors, you’ll be in a better position to choose a program that aligns with your career goals and personal circumstances.
Conclusion: Take the Next Step Toward a Rewarding Career in Physical Therapy
Choosing the right physical therapist program in Tacoma, WA, is a key step towards a fulfilling career in healthcare. Explore programs like the knowledgeable University of Puget Sound, the supportive Pierce College curriculum, or the hands-on Green River College pathways. Each program offers distinct advantages to help you succeed. Take action now by researching further or enrolling in one of these top programs to begin your journey towards becoming a skilled and compassionate physical therapist.