Looking for the best Physical Therapist Programs in Missoula, MT?
Finding an ideal physical therapy program can be overwhelming. This guide offers a concise overview of top programs in Missoula, highlighting their unique strengths and what sets them apart. Whether you’re starting your career or seeking advanced education, uncover the best options to match your aspirations.
The University of Montana – Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
The University of Montana presents a highly regarded Doctor of Physical Therapy program through the School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science. This rigorous 33-month program combines comprehensive coursework and extensive practical experiences.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), ensuring top educational standards.
- Class Size: Admits 36 full-time graduate students each August.
- Clinical Internships: Includes three full-time internships, with a specially tailored 15-week internship in the final semester.
- Hands-On Experience: Offers two part-time clinical experiences at the UMPT Clinic, focusing on various therapy specializations.
Student Success Metrics
- Exam Pass Rate: Boasts a 97.1% to 97.3% pass rate on the national physical therapy exam, with an overall 100% exam pass rate.
- Employment Rate: Maintains a 100% employment rate for graduates.
Admission Statistics
- Applications: Receives applications from 480 to 554 candidates annually.
- Academic Performance: Admitted students typically have overall GPAs from 3.62 to 3.74 and prerequisite GPAs from 3.67 to 3.809.
- Average GRE Scores: Verbal scores range from 153.6 to 155.8, Quantitative scores from 153.3 to 155.6, and Writing scores from 4.12 to 4.35.
For more details, visit the University of Montana Doctor of Physical Therapy Program.
The University of Montana – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
The eight-semester DPT program at the University of Montana merges theoretical and practical education, underpinned by community engagement and interprofessional collaboration.
Key Features
- Integrated Clinical Experiences: Features both part-time and full-time clinical experiences.
- Elective Credits: Requires an additional six elective credits beyond the core 116 credits.
- Dual Degree Options: Offers combinations like Master of Public Health/Doctor of Physical Therapy and Master of Business Administration/Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Admissions
- Prerequisites: Requires a bachelor’s degree, specific coursework such as anatomy, and GRE scores.
- International Students: Must present TOEFL scores unless they attended an English-speaking institution.
Applications are due by October 15, 2024, and include an $80 supplemental fee. Successful candidates submit a $300 deposit and undergo a national criminal background check.
For additional information, visit University of Montana DPT Admissions.
The University of Montana – Doctor in Physical Therapy Program
This entry-level Doctor in Physical Therapy program by the University of Montana focuses on extensive clinical internships and specialized hands-on learning.
Distinctive Elements
- Accreditation: Accredited by CAPTE, ensuring a recognized and credible education in physical therapy.
- Internships: Features three full-time internships, including a final 15-week individually designed internship.
- UMPT Clinic: Provides clinical education opportunities, emphasizing areas like sports, orthopedics, and neurologic impairment.
Costs, including tuition and fees, must be inquired directly as they are not listed online.
Learn more at University of Montana – Missoula Physical Therapy Program.
University of Montana – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
The University of Montana streamlines the admissions process for its DPT program, emphasizing flexibility and applicant convenience.
Notable Program Aspects
- Application Requirements: Requires a bachelor’s degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and current GRE scores.
- Observation Hours: Temporarily relaxed for the 2022-2023 application season due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Submission Process: Handled via the Physical Therapy Centralized Application System (PTCAS).
Important Dates
- Application Opening: June 13, 2023
- Application Deadline: November 1, 2023
- Interviews: January 2024
- Program Start: August 26, 2024
For full details, visit University of Montana PT Program Application Process.
Flathead Valley Community College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Flathead Valley Community College offers a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program, geared towards training competent PTAs under licensed physical therapists’ supervision.
Program Framework
- Skill Development: Emphasizes safe practice, ethical conduct, and effective communication.
- Clinical Training: Includes hands-on experiences in diverse healthcare settings, enabling practical application of classroom knowledge.
Career Preparation
- Licensing Exam: Graduates become eligible for the National Physical Therapist Assistant Licensing Exam.
- Professional Growth: Focuses on teamwork in healthcare settings, promoting roles of PTs and PTAs.
Prospective students should consider living expenses and potential travel for clinical placements.
Explore more at Flathead Valley Community College PTA Program.
Continue exploring the right Physical Therapist Program in Missoula, MT, to kickstart your rewarding career in physical therapy. Each institution provides distinct opportunities to develop skills, gain valuable hands-on experience, and prepare for a promising professional future. Links provided will take you directly to more detailed information about each program.
The University of Montana-Missoula – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
If you’re considering a career in physical therapy, the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at the University of Montana-Missoula is an excellent choice. This program offers both rigor and flexibility, catering to various professional interests through multiple degree options.
Program Offerings
- Entry-Level DPT: Designed for those seeking to start their physical therapy career.
- Dual Degrees: The DPT/MBA and DPT/MPH options combine physical therapy with business or public health education.
- Transitional DPT: Ideal for professionals looking to advance their credentials with a post-entry level degree.
Curriculum and Focus
The program prepares you for patient habilitation and rehabilitation, equipping you with skills in:
- Therapeutic Techniques: Learn exercises, heat/cold therapies, light treatments, electrical stimulation, and massage to aid healing and relieve pain.
- Settings Variety: Prepare for diverse roles in hospitals, clinics, sports medicine facilities, public schools, and private practices.
- Community Impact: Emphasizes serving rural communities and offers training for administrative, teaching, consulting, and research roles.
Accreditation and Licensure
The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), ensuring a path to state licensure. This opens opportunities for varied roles in the public and private sectors.
For more information, visit the University of Montana DPT Program.
Community Medical Center – Physical Therapy Program
The Community Medical Center in Missoula offers a tailored Physical Therapy program that meets the unique needs of its patients and students alike.
Program Services
- Specializations: Focus areas include cancer physical therapy, dry needling, fall prevention, geriatric care, and pediatric therapy.
- Innovative Treatments: Offers services like ASTYM, amputee training, LiteGait for partial weight therapy, and the LSVT BIG™ and LSVT LOUD™ programs for Parkinson’s Disease.
- Patient Education: Emphasizes educating patients for better mobility and long-term health outcomes.
Facility and Accessibility
- Comprehensive Care: Operates during standard business hours, providing a wide range of services to ensure comprehensive care.
- Expert Staff: Experienced therapists deliver hands-on care and custom exercise programs tailored to patient needs.
For more information, visit the Community Medical Center Physical Therapy program.
Great Falls College Montana State University – Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program
Great Falls College Montana State University offers a robust Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program designed to create competent PTAs ready for the workforce.
Program Details
- Selective Enrollment: Admits 20 students annually, ensuring personalized attention and quality training.
- Prerequisite Requirements: Includes 30 credits of prerequisite coursework that typically takes a year to complete.
- Clinical Experience: Offers both classroom instruction and real-world clinical experiences, which may require travel beyond Great Falls.
Licensing and Costs
- Examination Preparation: Prepares graduates for the National Physical Therapist Assistant Examination (NPTAE) for licensure.
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
- Cost Structure: Estimated resident program costs are around $12,320, including tuition, fees, and supplies.
For more details, visit the Great Falls College Montana State University PTA Program.
How to Choose the Best Physical Therapist Program in Missoula MT
Making the right choice among the Physical Therapist Programs in Missoula MT involves careful consideration of several key factors.
Factors to Consider
- Accreditation: Ensures the program meets high educational standards and that you’ll be eligible for licensure.
- Faculty Qualifications: Experienced, well-educated faculty can significantly enhance your learning experience.
- Clinical Experience Opportunities: Valuable hands-on internships and integrated clinical experiences are crucial for practical learning.
- Program Length and Structure: The duration and course structure should align with your career plans and personal commitments.
- Financial Aspects: Consider tuition, financial aid opportunities, and additional expenses like travel and living costs.
- Community and Support: Look for programs offering robust student support services and community outreach opportunities for holistic development.
Steps to Follow
- Research Programs: Visit the program websites and request detailed brochures.
- Speak to Alumni: Reach out to graduates to hear about their experiences.
- Visit Campuses: If possible, tour the facilities to get a feel for the learning environment.
- Evaluate Costs: Compare tuition and other expenses across programs, factoring in financial aid and scholarships.
- Check Licensure Rates: Higher pass rates on licensure exams indicate better preparation.
By considering these factors, you can confidently select the Physical Therapist Program that best suits your needs and aspirations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right program among the Physical Therapist Programs in Missoula MT is a significant step toward a rewarding career. Evaluating key factors and understanding each program’s unique offerings will help you make an informed decision. If you’re ready to take the next step, review the details provided and explore the programs that align best with your professional goals.