Physical Therapist Programs in San Mateo CA

Why settle for anything less than the best when choosing your career path?

Physical Therapist Programs in San Mateo CA offer top-notch education and hands-on experience you need to excel.

This guide curates the best programs, helping you make an informed decision quickly and confidently.

Whether you’re starting fresh or advancing your education, discover quality options tailored to your goals.

UCSF/SFSU – Graduate Program in Physical Therapy (DPT)

When considering Physical Therapist Programs in San Mateo CA, one exceptional choice is the UCSF/SFSU Graduate Program in Physical Therapy (DPT). This top-rated program consistently ranks among the best on the west coast and nationally.

• Program Duration: 36 months starting in June.
• Admission: Limits annual acceptance to 50 students, ensuring focused and quality education.
• Clinical Experience: Includes 34 weeks of full-time clinical experiences.
• Focus Areas: Emphasizes diversity, equity, inclusion, and community outreach.

Students are trained to practice patient-centered care, participate in research, and engage in community outreach activities, with a goal to enhance healthcare access and quality. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), ensuring top standards in education and practice.

Agile Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine – Physical Therapy Program

Located minutes from downtown Burlingame, Agile Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine offers a wide range of specialized physical therapy services. Their reputation for excellence is built on personalized care and advanced treatments.

• Approach: Patient-centered, with one-on-one, hour-long sessions.
• Specialties: Pelvic floor therapy, concussion care, sports physical therapy, and more.
• Telehealth: Available through a HIPAA-compliant video platform.

Agile’s highly trained team of licensed Doctors of Physical Therapy customizes care plans involving exercise, manual therapy, and education. This approach ensures that each patient receives the best possible recovery and rehabilitation experience.

Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts – A.S. in Physical Therapist Assistant

The Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and practical skills.

• Program Location: San Mateo campus near San Jose Mineta International Airport.
• Facilities: A secure and convenient 40,000-square-foot facility.
• Other Programs: Nursing, cardiac ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging.

Focused on developing healthcare professionals with high levels of competence, Gurnick combines quality education with clinical training. These elements together foster passionate professionals ready to impact the health sector positively.

Apex Physical Therapy – Double Play Program

Apex Physical Therapy’s Double Play Program is especially beneficial for athletes and active individuals focused on enhancing performance and reducing injury risks.

• Developer: Mike Gaddini, a sports physical therapist.
• Plan Options: Four-session plan at $500 and eight-session plan at $900 (on promotion).
• Components: Functional Movement Screen, InBody 230 analysis, neuromuscular training, corrective exercises, and performance training.

Each session provides personalized, one-on-one coaching to ensure optimal outcomes and performance enhancement.

West Bay Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation Center – Physical Therapy Services

Offering specialized services in a relaxed and individualized setting, the West Bay Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation Center in San Mateo is a therapist-owned clinic dedicated to high-quality care.

• Location: 800 South Claremont St, Suite 106.
• Services: Hands-on manual therapy, functional training, tailored wellness plans.
• Hours: Early morning to late afternoon.

Their dedicated team offers a caring approach that adapts to each patient’s unique rehabilitation needs, ensuring a personalized recovery plan.

College of San Mateo – Kinesiology Program

The Kinesiology Program at the College of San Mateo provides a robust education for students interested in careers in kinesiology, exercise science, and physical therapy.

• Degrees Offered: AA-T and specialized certificates.
• Course Diversity: Core courses in kinesiology, anatomy, and physiology coupled with electives in individual sports and aquatic activities.
• Career Pathways: Prepares for careers in physical education, athletic training, and related fields.

The curriculum is designed for seamless transfer to four-year institutions, laying a solid foundation for further studies and careers in physical wellness and coaching.

San Francisco State University – Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program at San Francisco State University offers a comprehensive blend of academic and clinical training.

• Program Duration: Three years.
• Accreditation: CAPTE-accredited.
• Clinical Experience: Includes 34 weeks of full-time clinical internships.
• Class Size: Annually admits 50 students.

The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to integrate theoretical foundations in basic and applied sciences. Emphasis is placed on hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, ensuring that students are well-prepared to excel in the State Licensing Examination.

UCSF-SFSU – Entry-Level Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program

The UCSF-SFSU Entry-Level Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program is a collaborative initiative aimed at producing top-tier physical therapists.

• Program Duration: 36 continuous months, beginning in June.
• Curriculum: Combines critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and practical application.
• Clinical Practice: Offers 34 weeks of clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings.
• Faculty: Taught by approximately 20 experts from UCSF and SFSU.

With rigorous academic content and practical exposure, students graduate well-equipped for diverse patient care scenarios, embodying the values of scholarly clinicians, researchers, and leaders in physical therapy.

College of San Mateo – Kinesiology Degree and Certificate Programs

The Kinesiology Department at the College of San Mateo offers a variety of degree and certificate programs for students aspiring to careers in physical wellness and sports.

• Programs Offered: Adapted P.E., Dance, Pilates, Personal Training, and more.
• Career Pathways: Coaching, fitness training, athletic management, recreation leadership.
• Curriculum: Designed for seamless transfer to four-year institutions.

With experienced faculty, students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for future educational and career opportunities in physical wellness, sports, and related fields.

Luna Physical Therapy – In-Home Physical Therapy Services

Luna Physical Therapy provides a unique service by offering in-home physical therapy, ensuring convenience and personalized care.

• Service Availability: Seven days a week, from 6:30 am to 8:30 pm.
• Specialties: Wide array of conditions catered to with specialized treatments.
• Additional Features: In-app exercises and remote assistance via the Luna app.
• Insurance: Handles insurance verifications for seamless service.

The one-on-one care provided in the comfort of the patient’s home enhances the overall therapy experience, enabling optimal recovery without the need for clinic visits.

How to Choose the Best Physical Therapist Program in San Mateo CA

Selecting the right program is crucial for your career and education. To simplify your decision-making process, consider the following factors:

1. Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by CAPTE or other relevant accrediting bodies.
2. Curriculum: A comprehensive curriculum that includes theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical experiences is essential.
3. Faculty: Experienced and qualified faculty members can significantly impact the quality of education.
4. Class Size: Smaller class sizes tend to offer more personalized attention and better student-teacher interaction.
5. Specializations: If you have specific interests, ensure the program offers relevant specializations or tailored courses.
6. Facilities: High-quality facilities, including modern equipment and technology, enhance the learning experience.
7. Location: Proximity to your home can save commuting time and costs.
8. Cost: Compare tuition fees and consider the availability of financial aid or scholarships.

For a well-rounded decision, visit campuses, speak with current students, and review program outcomes, such as graduation rates and job placements.

Conclusion: Find Your Ideal Physical Therapy Program

Choosing the right physical therapist program in San Mateo, CA, can set the stage for a successful career. Explore each program detailed in this guide, ask questions, and visit campuses to find the best fit for your career aspirations. Start your journey toward a rewarding career with a program that aligns with your professional goals and lifestyle.