Considering a career as a physical therapist in Omaha, NE?
Finding the right program can be overwhelming.
This article highlights top physical therapist programs in Omaha, including their unique features and what sets them apart.
Discover what makes these programs exceptional and how they can help you achieve your professional goals effectively.
College of Saint Mary – Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at College of Saint Mary (CSM) in Omaha, NE, provides a robust, accelerated path to becoming a physical therapist. Here, you’ll discover a program designed to be completed in just 31 months, blending on-site sessions with online coursework for a flexible learning experience.
- Program Duration: The accelerated 31-month timeline ensures you enter the workforce quickly.
- Cohort Size: With a maximum of 60 students per cohort, you receive personalized attention.
- Hybrid Learning Model: Combines in-person and online coursework to best fit your schedule.
- Experienced Faculty: All instructors hold doctoral degrees and advanced clinical certifications.
- Clinical Training: Extensive hands-on training prepares you for real-world practice.
This program is competitive, requiring a rigorous application process. Upon completing the DPT program, graduates must pass the National Physical Therapy Exam and obtain state licensure. The program’s accreditation by CAPTE and adherence to national standards opens doors for out-of-state students and offers a badge of credibility.
Ensure you account for financial considerations, including tuition and potential student loans, before applying. For more detailed information and application guidance, visit the CSM DPT Program.
University of Nebraska Medical Center – Physical Therapy Program
The University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) Physical Therapy Program offers a focused and personalized educational experience. Limited enrollment ensures you receive individualized instruction and mentorship throughout your studies.
- Curriculum Components: Includes lecture-laboratory courses, seminars, and hands-on clinical education.
- Faculty Expertise: Educators are both clinicians and researchers, guaranteeing a comprehensive education.
- Service Learning: Opportunities to engage with underserved communities, broadening your practical experience.
- Clinical Opportunities: Participate in programs like the Physical Therapy LEND Traineeship and Pro-Bono clinics.
Upon graduation, you’re eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam for licensure. The blend of rigorous academics and extensive fieldwork makes UNMC’s program highly competitive. For program specifics and application details, explore the UNMC Physical Therapy Program.
Creighton University – Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at Creighton University prioritizes both your professional and personal development. This esteemed program is structured to help you succeed in diverse physical therapy settings.
- Foundational Sciences: Extensive coursework in anatomy and physiology.
- Clinical Practice: Includes full-time clinical practice in your final year.
- Specialty Tracks: Opportunities to specialize in areas such as Sports, Research, and Women’s Health.
- Interprofessional Education: Collaborations with CHI Health improve team-based care skills.
A high employment rate and competitive salaries for graduates underscore the program’s excellence. Accreditation by CAPTE further guarantees the quality of education. Learn more about the program’s strengths and application process by visiting the Creighton DPT Program.
Nebraska Methodist College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
For those pursuing a career as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), the Nebraska Methodist College (NMC) PTA Program offers an accredited pathway. This program spans 21 months, culminating in an Associate Degree.
- Program Length: 21 months to complete an Associate Degree.
- Pass Rate: Impressive 100% pass rate on the national certification exam over 8 of the past 10 years.
- Extensive Curriculum: Covers topics like Functional Anatomy and Therapeutic Modalities.
- Clinical Experiences: Gain hands-on experience through affiliations with Nebraska Methodist Health System.
To enroll, you need to meet certain academic prerequisites, a minimum GPA, and observation hours. The program’s real-world clinical exposure equips you for success as a PTA. More detailed information can be found on the NMC PTA Program site.
Clarkson College – Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program
Clarkson College’s Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program stands out for its large size and recognition from the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). The program is designed to prepare you for a career in rehabilitative care under licensed physical therapists.
- Program Size: Renowned for its large cohorts, ensuring diverse peer interaction.
- Accreditation: Accredited by CAPTE, ensuring high educational standards.
- Hands-On Experience: Over 250 clinical education sites across 25 states.
- Advanced Opportunities: Possibilities to pursue a PTA Bachelor’s degree or dual degrees in Community Health or Health Care Business.
The comprehensive clinical training embedded in the PTA program makes you job-ready upon graduation. For a deeper look into what the program offers, visit the Clarkson College PTA Program.
Southeast Community College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
The Southeast Community College (SCC) Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program is dedicated to delivering top-notch education, preparing students for careers as physical therapist assistants.
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by CAPTE, ensuring educational quality and compliance with industry standards.
- Curriculum: The program includes courses in anatomy, physiology, and patient care techniques.
- Clinical Rotations: Extensive hands-on training in varied healthcare settings.
- Impressive Outcomes: Graduates have an 89.5% pass rate on the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) over the past two years.
- Affordability: Tuition costs are around $9,590, making it an economical choice for many students.
This program prepares you thoroughly for licensure as you work towards an Associate of Applied Science degree. For more details and application instructions, visit SCC PTA Program.
University of Nebraska Medical Center – Doctor of Physical Therapy
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) encompasses three years of rigorous academic and clinical education.
- Accreditation: Accredited by CAPTE.
- Curriculum: A blend of didactic and clinical coursework, emphasizing evidence-based practice and clinical reasoning.
- Clinical Education: 34 weeks of clinical training embedded throughout the program.
- Research Opportunities: Engage in research to complement your clinical knowledge.
- Admission Requirements: Maintain a minimum GPA and pass criminal background checks for some clinical sites.
Upon graduation, students are well-prepared to take the licensure examination. For further details, please visit UNMC DPT Program.
Northeast Community College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program at Northeast Community College offers an accredited path to becoming a PTA with a focus on clinical and academic rigor.
- Accreditation: CAPTE accredited, ensuring program quality.
- Curriculum: Consists of relevant courses like therapeutic exercises and patient care.
- Clinical Experience: Integral part of the program enabling hands-on learning.
- Graduation Requirements: Includes completing a physical exam, vaccinations, background check, and drug screening.
With the opportunity to take the NPTE after graduation, the program ensures you are well-equipped for the workforce. Explore more about the program at Northeast Community College PTA Program.
University of Nebraska at Kearney – Pre-Physical Therapy Program
The University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) Pre-Physical Therapy Program provides preparatory education for students aiming to enter physical therapy schools.
- Acceptance Rate: 80.65% acceptance into physical therapy schools.
- Advisory Support: Dedicated advisors guide you through coursework and application processes.
- Research Opportunities: Involve research projects to enhance practical understanding.
- Class Sizes: Smaller class sizes for personalized attention.
This program helps you meet prerequisites while pursuing a relevant bachelor’s degree. Financially, UNK offers scholarships and diverse aid options. More information can be obtained from UNK Pre-Physical Therapy Program.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Physical Therapist Program
Choosing the right physical therapist program means weighing several critical factors:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by bodies like CAPTE to guarantee high educational standards.
- Curriculum: Evaluate if the curriculum covers essential topics like anatomy, physiology, and clinical practice. These are fundamental to your future career.
- Clinical Experience: Look for programs offering extensive clinical rotations and internships, as these provide hands-on experience crucial for practical skill development.
- Faculty Qualifications: Experienced clinicians and researchers as faculty can provide a richer, more comprehensive education. Check the program’s credentials.
- Alumni Success Rates: Investigate the program’s graduation rates, pass rates for exams like the NPTE, and employment rates. These metrics indicate the program’s effectiveness and your potential success.
- Facilities and Partnerships: Clinical affiliations, access to state-of-the-art labs, and research opportunities can enhance learning experiences significantly.
- Financial Considerations: Analyze the cost of tuition and the availability of financial aid. Scholarships, grants, and student loans can make higher education more accessible.
- Admissions Criteria: Understand the program’s prerequisites and how competitive the admissions process is. Meeting these criteria beforehand can streamline your application.
Choosing the best program involves aligning these factors with your career goals and financial circumstances.
Conclusion
Embarking on a career as a physical therapist in Omaha, NE starts with selecting the right program. Each featured program offers unique advantages tailored to different needs and career aspirations. Whether you’re focused on flexibility, specialized tracks, or hands-on training, there is a perfect program for you.
Explore these programs further to make an informed decision that aligns with your academic and professional goals. Pursuing a degree in these highly regarded programs is a pivotal step toward a rewarding career in physical therapy.
Your journey to becoming a physical therapist starts here.
This article was crafted to provide you with the essential details and considerations for “Physical Therapist Programs in Omaha NE” to help guide your educational choices effectively.