Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Physical Therapist Programs in Broken Arrow, Norman, Oklahoma City, and Tulsa.
Best Physical Therapist Programs in Oklahoma: Top Choices for Future Health Professionals
Looking to become a physical therapist in Oklahoma but unsure where to start?
This article outlines the best physical therapist programs in Oklahoma, detailing their curriculum, clinical experiences, and career prospects.
Discover the top schools offering accredited programs designed to launch your career in this rewarding field.
The University of Oklahoma Health Science Center – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
Are you ready to join one of the top physical therapist programs in Oklahoma? The University of Oklahoma Health Science Center’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program has a stellar reputation for developing skilled, compassionate practitioners.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: Fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
- Completion: 108 semester hours, combining didactic and clinical courses.
- Success Rates: 98.3% graduation rate.
- Clinical Experiences: Hands-on training across Oklahoma in various specialties like orthopedics, neurology, and pediatrics.
- Faculty: Expert instructors committed to evidence-based practice and student development.
- Special Programs: Unique certificate programs and immersive internships that enhance professional skill sets.
Graduates from this program are eligible for the national certification examination for physical therapists, ensuring they can practice across the nation.
Key Features
- Extensive Clinical Training: Students engage in rich clinical experiences, gaining exposure to real-world scenarios.
- Student-focused Learning: A dedicated faculty blending academic knowledge with practical skills.
- High Employability: Graduates are well-prepared for immediate entry into the workforce.
Considering this program is a solid step towards a successful career in physical therapy. Reach out directly for more detailed information on program costs and admissions requirements.
Langston University – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
Langston University offers the state’s first and highly regarded Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. Since 1986, it has evolved into a premier doctoral program aimed at delivering exceptional education.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: Accredited by CAPTE.
- Class Size: Small, fostering a personalized learning environment.
- Faculty: Skilled instructors with diverse expertise, including specialists in niche areas like dance injury prevention.
- Success Rates: High graduation and employment rates among alumni.
- Facilities: Advanced clinical, virtual, simulation, and research labs.
- Interprofessional Education: Focus on teamwork across healthcare disciplines.
- Community Outreach: Engagement in local community health initiatives.
Key Features
- Low Student-to-Faculty Ratio: Ensures personalized attention and mentoring.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: A robust blend of theoretical and practical training.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Cutting-edge labs that simulate real-life clinical settings.
Langston’s program is known for its strong academic framework and extensive hands-on experiences, setting students up for professional success. For more details on admission and program costs, visit their website.
Oklahoma City Community College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) provides an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant Program, designed to impart in-depth knowledge and practical skills.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: CAPTE accredited.
- Completion: Two years, earning an Associate in Applied Science degree.
- Success Rates: 97.56% graduation rate and 97.36% board exam pass rate.
- Clinical Components: Includes a 160-hour summer clinical and two seven-week spring clinicals.
- Career Prospects: High employment rate with salaries ranging from $54,020 to $66,754.
Key Features
- Comprehensive Clinical Training: Extensive hands-on clinical practices.
- Competitive Admission: Selective entry ensuring high standards.
- Strong Employability: Graduates are highly sought after in various healthcare settings.
This program ensures you will acquire the necessary skills to become a competent Physical Therapist Assistant. To learn more about their offerings, head to their program page.
The University of Oklahoma Tulsa – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
The University of Oklahoma Tulsa’s DPT Program emphasizes hands-on learning and comprehensive education to prepare future physical therapists.
Program Highlights
- Completion: 108 semester hours integrating didactic and clinical components.
- Success Rates: 100% career placement rate for job-seeking graduates.
- Clinical Sites: Over 400 clinical site opportunities, including international placements.
- Accreditation: Fully accredited by CAPTE.
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, minimum 2.75 GPA, official transcripts, and GRE scores.
- Scholarships: Financial support available to qualified students.
- Community: A tight-knit educational environment promoting teamwork and professional growth.
Key Features
- Extensive Clinical Internships: Diverse clinical experiences enhancing practical skills.
- High-Quality Education: Faculty committed to student success through evidence-based teaching.
- Excellent Career Placement: Graduates are well-prepared for diverse physical therapy roles.
By choosing this program, you’re setting yourself up for a robust educational experience and career readiness. For detailed information on their offerings, visit their website.
University of Oklahoma – Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
The University of Oklahoma offers a distinguished Doctor of Physical Therapy program through its Department of Rehabilitation Sciences.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: Accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association and CAPTE.
- Collaborative Environment: Joint classes with Occupational Therapy students promoting interprofessional teamwork.
- Diverse Career Opportunities: Graduates find roles in hospitals, private practices, educational institutions, and more.
- Alumni Success: Program alumni have become clinical supervisors, private practice owners, and university faculty.
- Experienced Faculty: A team of seasoned professionals dedicated to student success.
Key Features
- Robust Curriculum: Comprehensive education covering essential physical therapy practices.
- Graduation and Employment Rates: High rates indicating program effectiveness.
- Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous growth and specialization.
This program is a strong contender for those looking to pursue a rewarding career in physical therapy. For more information and admission details, check out their website.
If you’re considering a career in physical therapy, these exemplary programs offer excellent education, practical training, and strong career prospects. Thoroughly explore each program to find the best fit for your professional goals.
Southwestern Oklahoma State University – Pre-Professional Physical Therapy Program
Are you aiming to become a physical therapist through a strong foundational program? The Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) Pre-Professional Physical Therapy program is an excellent option for students preparing to enter a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.
Program Highlights
- Flexibility: Options to major in Health Sciences or Athletic Training Education.
- Location: Central campuses in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon.
- Preparation: Comprehensive coursework that covers essential pre-requisites for DPT programs.
- Hands-On Experience: Opportunities for practical experience in labs and healthcare environments.
- Professional Development: Engagement in healthcare-related activities and community services.
Key Features
- Health Sciences Major: Provides fundamental courses necessary for physical therapy.
- Athletic Training Education Major: Offers specialized training that complements physical therapy education.
- Access to Multiple Campuses: Flexibility to attend classes in different locations.
- Strong Academic Support: Guidance to help you prepare competitive DPT program applications.
While SWOSU’s program doesn’t guarantee admission into a DPT program, its structured curriculum significantly prepares students for their next academic step. Visit the program’s website for more details.
Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College (NEO) hosts a reputable Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program designed to provide a comprehensive education within 14 months.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: Accredited by CAPTE.
- Competitive Admissions: Accepts up to 15 applicants annually.
- Success Rates: 97.4% board pass rate and 100% employment rate over the past decade.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Combination of general education and technical coursework.
- Diverse Opportunities: Employment in hospitals, schools, and sports medicine clinics.
Key Features
- Selective Entry: Admissions based on ACT scores and GPA.
- High Success Rates: Outstanding board pass and employment rates.
- Diverse Clinical Settings: Opportunities to gain experience in various healthcare environments.
- PTA Club: Provides leadership and professional development experiences.
Graduates from NEO’s PTA program are well-prepared and highly employable. For more information about admissions and program specifics, visit their website.
Oklahoma Baptist University – Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
Planning to fast-track your physical therapy career? The Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) Doctor of Physical Therapy program offers an accelerated path designed to be completed in two years or less.
Program Highlights
- Format: Innovative hybrid model.
- Completion Time: Enables completion in an accelerated timeframe.
- Diverse Career Paths: Graduates can work in settings ranging from private practices to hospitals.
- Future Accreditation: Program plans to seek CAPTE accreditation.
Key Features
- Hybrid Learning Model: Combines online and on-campus learning for flexibility and convenience.
- Fast-Track Completion: Graduates can enter the field more quickly.
- Diverse Employment Settings: Prepares students for various professional environments.
Prospective students should consider that the program is pending CAPTE accreditation. For more detailed information, you can visit OBU’s website.
Tulsa Community College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Tulsa Community College (TCC) offers a thorough Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program designed to prepare students for a successful career.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: Accredited by CAPTE.
- Program Length: Five semesters of intensive study.
- Comprehensive Training: Classroom, laboratory, and clinical education components.
- Success Rates: High graduation, board pass, and employment rates.
- Cost: In-state tuition ranges from $3,729.60 to $7,692.30.
Key Features
- Rigorous Curriculum: Equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge.
- High Success Rates: Reflects program effectiveness and student readiness.
- Affordable Tuition: Competitive tuition rates for residents.
For more information on application processes, program costs, and detailed curriculum, visit the Tulsa Community College website.
How to Choose the Right Physical Therapist Program in Oklahoma
Selecting the right physical therapist program requires careful consideration. Here are key factors to guide your decision:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by CAPTE to be eligible for licensure exams.
- Curriculum: Look for programs that cover essential areas such as orthopedics, neurology, and sports medicine.
- Clinical Experience: Programs offering local and international clinical opportunities enhance learning and job prospects.
- Success Rates: Graduation and employment rates indicate program effectiveness.
- Financial Considerations: Evaluate tuition costs, available scholarships, and typical student debt.
- Post-Graduation Support: Check for job placement assistance or further education opportunities.
Key Steps
- Research Accreditation: Verify CAPTE accreditation to meet licensure requirements.
- Evaluate Curriculum Coverage: Ensure essential physical therapy areas are comprehensively covered.
- Consider Clinical Experience Volume: Opt for programs that offer extensive hands-on training.
- Analyze Success Metrics: Check graduation, board pass, and employment rates for insights.
- Examine Financial Implications: Assess costs, funding options, and potential debt.
- Look for Support Services: Consider programs with strong job placement or further education support.
Conduct thorough research, visit program websites, and engage with admissions offices to gather comprehensive information.
Physical Therapist Programs By State
Concluding Thoughts on Physical Therapist Programs in Oklahoma
Choosing the right program is fundamental to launching a successful career in physical therapy. By weighing factors like accreditation, curriculum, clinical exposure, and financial aspects, you can find the program that best aligns with your goals. Engage directly with program pages and admissions offices for detailed information and make an informed decision about your future in physical therapy.