Top Physical Therapist Programs in Virginia Beach, VA

Curious about the best Physical Therapist Programs in Virginia Beach, VA?

This article highlights standout programs that provide exceptional education, hands-on experience, and strong licensure success rates.

Get ready to explore options that can set you on the path toward a rewarding career in physical therapy.

South University – Physical Therapist Assistant Program

South University in Virginia Beach offers a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). This program is designed for those who aspire to become skilled in assisting physical therapists in treatment and rehabilitation.

Key Highlights:

• Credit Requirement: The program requires the completion of 74 credits.
• Curriculum: Courses include Introduction to Physical Therapist Assistant, Pathophysiology, Kinesiology, Testing and Measurement, Habilitation/Rehabilitation, and Therapeutic Interventions.
• Hands-On Experience: Clinical externships provide real-world practice environments.
• Admission Process: Entry is competitive and based on academic performance, prerequisite coursework, and a ranking process. Health screenings, background checks, and 20 hours of physical therapy observation are required.

Graduates of this program are prepared to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE), an essential step towards becoming a licensed PTA. The curriculum emphasizes professional behavior and ethical practice, ensuring that students are well-rounded professionals.

For more details about the program, visit South University’s official page.

Tidewater Community College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program

Tidewater Community College (TCC) offers a Physical Therapist Assistant program aimed at preparing students for a dynamic career in physical therapy. This CAPTE-accredited program is structured to ensure you gain comprehensive skills necessary for the field.

Program Features:

• Duration: The program spans over five semesters.
• Clinical Rotations: Includes three clinical internships to provide hands-on experience.
• High Employment Rate: Many students secure employment even before completing the program.
• Admission Requirements: An additional program-specific application, available by April 15th, and attendance at an information session are mandatory.

The curriculum emphasizes movement science, human body mechanics, and practical skills, making graduates well-equipped for roles in various healthcare settings such as hospitals and rehabilitation centers.

To learn more, visit the TCC Physical Therapy program page.

Old Dominion University – Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

Old Dominion University (ODU) provides a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program based in Virginia Beach. This program integrates rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical practice, ensuring you are well-prepared for licensure and practice as a physical therapist.

Program Details:

• Length: A three-year, full-time commitment.
• Learning Methods: Includes classroom instruction, lab practice, online interactions, clinical experiences, and work with standardized patients.
• Faculty: Experienced faculty engaged in teaching, research, and community service.

Admission Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree & Prerequisite Courses: Completion of science prerequisites.
• GRE Scores: Competitive performance on the GRE.
• Experience: 40 hours of volunteer or paid experience in a PT clinic.

This CAPTE-accredited program emphasizes diversified clinical education, ensuring students are exposed to various healthcare environments. The program is known for its dedicated faculty and comprehensive curriculum.

Visit the ODU DPT program page for more information.

In Motion at Town Center – Physical Therapy Programs

In Motion at Town Center offers a variety of physical therapy services, conveniently located in central Virginia Beach. Their programs are tailored to meet the needs of a diverse client base, utilizing advanced treatment techniques.

Services Provided:

• Aquatic Therapy
• Concussion Management
• Dry Needling
• Graston/IASTM
• Kinesio Taping™
• Manual Therapy
• McKenzie Method
• Myofascial Therapy
• Neuro Rehabilitation
• Orthotics, and more

Direct Access Program: Allows patients to receive evaluations and treatments from certified physical therapists without needing prior referrals.

The team at In Motion at Town Center includes highly skilled professionals such as Mike Pishioneri (Rehab Manager, PT) and Jennifer Davis (Clinical Supervisor, PT).

For comprehensive and personalized care, visit the In Motion at Town Center program page.

ECPI University – Physical Therapist Assistant Program

ECPI University offers an accelerated Physical Therapist Assistant program through its College of Health Science, Medical Careers Institute (MCI). This program is designed for quick yet thorough training, allowing students to earn an Associate of Applied Science Degree in just 1.5 years.

Key Features:

• Accreditation: The program is CAPTE-accredited, ensuring it meets high educational standards.
• Intensive Curriculum: Areas of study include professional issues, musculoskeletal conditions, pathology, kinesiology, and rehabilitation assessment.
• Clinical Training: Gain practical experience through clinical training and hands-on simulations at the Newport News and Richmond/Emerywood campuses.
• Outcomes: The program boasts a 71% first-time pass rate and an 89% ultimate pass rate on the National Physical Therapy Exam. Positive employment rates are reported post-graduation.
• Faculty Expertise: Experienced faculty provide evidence-based education, guiding students towards successful careers in physical therapy.

For more detailed information, visit the ECPI University PTA program page.

CHKD Rehabilitation Services and Physical Therapy – Physical Therapy Program

CHKD Rehabilitation Services and Physical Therapy offers specialized pediatric physical therapy. Located in Virginia Beach, this program provides services both inpatient and outpatient, catering to the unique needs of children.

Program Insights:

• Family-Centered Approach: Therapy plans are customized and involve family participation.
• Advanced Techniques: Includes manual therapy, therapeutic taping, infant massage, electrical stimulation, and aquatic therapy.
• Broad Services: Also covers airway clearance, pelvic floor therapy, neurodevelopmental treatment, splinting, hypermobility disorders, and more.
• Multiple Locations: Aquatic therapy programs are offered in several locations, with ten outpatient centers across Hampton Roads.

Licensed by the Virginia State Board of Medicine, CHKD therapists focus on gross motor development, strength, balance, functional independence, and weight management for pediatric patients.

To gather more details or refer a patient, visit CHKD Rehabilitation Services’ page.

Jordan-Young Institute – Physical Therapy Program

Jordan-Young Institute in Virginia Beach provides specialized physical therapy services. This program emphasizes individualized treatment plans and works closely with orthopedic surgeons to ensure comprehensive care.

Service Features:

• Evaluation and Collaboration: Comprehensive evaluations and collaboration with physicians to create personalized therapy plans.
• Specialized Therapy: The institute specializes in treating shoulder, elbow, spine, hip, knee, foot, and ankle conditions, with a focus on reducing pain and restoring function.
• Advanced Certifications: Therapists hold advanced certifications such as Board-certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialists, and expertise in manual therapy and the McKenzie Method.

The institute offers regenerative medicine options and is dedicated to high-quality patient care.

For more personalized information, visit the Jordan-Young Institute’s physical therapy page.

What to Consider When Choosing a Physical Therapist Program

Selecting the right physical therapist program is crucial for your career success. Here are key factors to consider:

1. Accreditation:
2. Curriculum:
3. Faculty Qualifications:
4. Clinical Experience:
5. Licensure Exam Pass Rates:
6. Location and Tuition Costs:
7. Support Services:
8. State-Specific Requirements:

Gathering detailed information on these aspects will help you make an informed decision about the best physical therapy program for your career goals.

Summarizing the Best Physical Therapist Programs in Virginia Beach, VA

To wrap up, the top physical therapist programs in Virginia Beach, VA offer accredited courses with robust curricula, experienced faculty, and diverse clinical experiences. These programs are designed to prepare you for a successful career in physical therapy, equipping you with necessary skills and knowledge.

For more information, visit the provided links for each program to deepen your understanding and make the right choice for your future in physical therapy.