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Considering a career in physical therapy but unsure where to start? Finding the right educational path can make all the difference.
This guide covers the top Physical Therapist Programs in Maine, offering key details to help you find the program that fits your goals. Whether you’re aiming for a Doctorate or an Associate degree, Maine has excellent options to set you on the right track.
University of New England – Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.)
The University of New England (UNE) offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) program with a mission to prepare students to be leaders in the physical therapy profession. They emphasize compassionate and effective care while equipping students with extensive knowledge and skills.
Key Features:
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), ensuring a high-quality education.
- Electives and Field Learning: Extensive electives and field learning opportunities across Maine provide a diverse learning experience.
- Community Culture: UNE fosters lasting bonds among students, faculty, and professional staff, promoting a supportive and welcoming culture.
- Expert Faculty: Faculty members are actively involved at both state and national levels in physical therapy, bringing cutting-edge insights to the classroom.
- Clinical Experiences: Opportunities for clinical experiences and service-learning are abundant, including participation in the Maine Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) program.
- Global Opportunities: Unique global interdisciplinary experiences on UNE’s Morocco campus and service learning in countries like Ghana, Iceland, India, and Greece.
- High Success Rate: Graduates are well-prepared for the workforce, boasting high success rates in the national licensing examinations.
Located on UNE’s Portland Campus for the Health Sciences, this program blends academics with real-world practice, making it an excellent option for aspiring physical therapists in Maine.
Husson University – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
The Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Husson University provides a rigorous and supportive educational environment. The program is designed to prepare students for successful careers in physical therapy through a hands-on learning approach.
Key Features:
- Curriculum: A comprehensive 116 credit hour curriculum over three years, covering kinesiology, neurophysiology, pathophysiology, advanced therapeutic exercises, advanced anatomy, and prosthetics in rehabilitation.
- Personalized Learning: With a faculty-to-student ratio of 1:10, students enjoy personalized learning experiences.
- Exceptional Facilities: State-of-the-art facilities including the Therapeutic Skills Lab, Dahl Gross Anatomy Laboratory, and Kenduskeag Research Institute.
- Clinical Experience: Over 350 clinical sites across the U.S. offer extensive hands-on clinical experience. The student-run pro bono clinic, SOARing Eagles Healthcare (SEH), enhances practical learning.
- Expert Faculty: The faculty includes respected researchers with over 80 peer-reviewed publications and 150 published abstracts.
- High Pass Rates: The program boasts a high first-time licensing exam pass rate.
- Career Opportunities: Physical therapists earn a median annual salary of $95,620, with an employment growth projected at 17% from 2021 to 2031.
The intensive, hands-on learning approach and expert faculty make Husson University’s DPT program a great option for those looking to start their careers in physical therapy.
Kennebec Valley Community College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC) offers an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program focused on transitioning from theoretical knowledge to applied clinical skills.
Key Features:
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
- Competency-Based Curriculum: The curriculum emphasizes a competency-based approach that helps students gain hands-on experience through patient simulations and clinical education centers.
- Career Opportunities: Graduates find career opportunities in a variety of settings including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, home care agencies, and sports medicine clinics.
- Strong Outcomes: Student outcomes are impressive with a 94% graduation rate, a 96% ultimate pass rate on licensing exams, and a 100% employment rate based on a two-year average.
- Admission Requirements: Admission includes background checks and completion of specific academic courses with a minimum grade of “C”.
- Additional Requirements: Students need to obtain specific program materials like a KVCC/SPTA polo and name pin, and complete requisites for background checks. Internet access is necessary for online-enhanced courses.
KVCC’s structured PTA program ensures that students are well-prepared for successful careers as physical therapist assistants, integrating both theoretical and hands-on learning experiences.
University of Maine at Presque Isle – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
The University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) offers a fully accredited Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program that equips students with essential hands-on learning opportunities.
Key Features:
- Clinical Experience: Includes at least three off-campus clinical experiences, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.
- Training Lab: Features a well-equipped training lab, including an in-patient simulation room, providing comprehensive, practical training.
- Licensure Preparation: Graduates are primed to become licensed physical therapist assistants, ensuring they can offer high-quality services under a physical therapist’s supervision.
- Community Focus: Aims to meet the healthcare needs of Aroostook County through educational and community partnerships.
- Professional Development: Emphasizes lifelong learning and professional growth, preparing graduates for the evolving demands of the field.
- Impressive Outcomes: Strives for a technical phase graduation rate of 70% and a licensure examination pass rate of 90% within the first year post-graduation.
- Community Service: Active participation in annual community service activities by students and faculty.
Additional program requirements include maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.64 and fulfilling specific credit hour requirements for both general and technical courses. The curriculum covers a range of vital topics and includes supervised clinical experiences to reinforce academic learning.
UMPI’s PTA program prepares students comprehensively for careers as physical therapist assistants, fitting the needs of those looking to make an impactful start in the field.
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine – Exercise Science Program
The Exercise Science program at Saint Joseph’s College of Maine offers a curriculum that thoroughly examines the intersections between exercise, fitness, sports performance, and health.
Key Features:
- Hands-On Learning: Practical experience through classroom activities, community-based learning, on-campus practica, and off-campus internships.
- Specialized Tracks: Offers specialized tracks in pre-athletic training and pre-chiropractic to meet specific career aspirations.
- Articulation Agreements: Collaborations with institutions such as the University of Southern Maine and Northeast College of Health Sciences facilitate transitions to advanced degree programs.
- Pathways for PTAs: An agreement with the University of Maine at Presque Isle provides pathways for those interested in becoming Physical Therapy Assistants.
- Exercise Science Minor: Offers a minor in exercise science for students wanting to complement their primary area of study.
- Career Readiness: Graduates are equipped for various roles in fitness and health fields, as well as for pursuing advanced degrees.
The Exercise Science program at Saint Joseph’s College integrates practical learning with academic instruction, preparing students for diverse career opportunities in the fitness and health industries.
Choosing the Right Physical Therapist Program for You
Selecting the right physical therapist program is crucial for your career path in healthcare. Here are essential factors to consider:
- Accreditation: Verify that the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) to ensure quality education.
- Curriculum: Evaluate whether the curriculum covers comprehensive and advanced topics essential for a PT career. Check for courses in kinesiology, anatomy, neurophysiology, and therapeutic exercises.
- Faculty Expertise: Investigate the qualifications, experience, and professional involvement of the faculty. Expert educators can significantly impact your learning experience.
- Clinical Exposure: Hands-on clinical experience is vital. Look into the program’s partnerships with hospitals and clinics offering diverse and intensive training.
- Program Length and Schedule: Assess the duration of the program and its ability to fit your schedule and career timeline.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Determine the overall cost of the program, including tuition, fees, and other expenses. Explore available financial aid options to manage your investment.
- Location: Decide whether you’d prefer to study close to home or if you’re open to relocating. Consider the implications on your personal and professional life.
- Success Rates: Analyze the program’s success metrics such as graduation rates, licensing exam pass rates, and employment statistics. High rates often reflect a robust program.
- Extracurricular Opportunities: Research additional opportunities like global learning experiences, community service, and internships which can enrich your education.
Thoroughly considering these factors will enable you to choose a program that aligns well with your goals and personal circumstances, setting you on the path to a rewarding career in physical therapy.
Physical Therapist Programs By State
Conclusion
Selecting the right physical therapist program is pivotal for your future career. Maine offers various high-quality programs that can help you achieve your professional goals. By carefully evaluating your options and considering crucial factors, you can find a program that offers a strong foundation for your journey in physical therapy. Explore these programs further to find the best fit for your aspirations and start your path towards making a meaningful impact in healthcare.