Searching for top-notch Physical Therapist Programs in Lincoln, NE?
Unlock your potential with our curated list of the best programs designed to prepare you for a successful career in physical therapy.
This guide will highlight key aspects like accreditation, curriculum quality, and hands-on training opportunities, enabling you to make an informed decision tailored to your career goals.
UNMC College of Allied Health Professions – Physical Therapy Program
The UNMC College of Allied Health Professions Physical Therapy Program aims to advance health for all by enhancing movement through education, research, and service.
This program emphasizes hands-on clinical education and includes courses in diverse areas like anatomy, physiology, and neuromuscular physical therapy. You will receive extensive training that prepares you to excel in the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE), ensuring you are well-equipped for a career in various settings such as hospitals and rehabilitation centers.
Key Features:
- Education Quality: Focus on comprehensive subjects including neurology, orthopedics, and pediatrics.
- Clinical Education: Hands-on practice in clinical settings under expert supervision.
- Community Engagement: Strong emphasis on outreach, prioritizing underserved populations.
- Leadership: Encouragement towards advocacy for healthcare needs.
Admission is competitive, involving a holistic examination of academic records and extracurricular achievements.
UNL – Pre-Health Physical Therapy Path
If you’re looking to prepare comprehensively for PT school, the UNL Pre-Health Physical Therapy Path is a structured guide for aspiring physical therapists.
This program helps you map out academic prerequisites, from essential courses to recommended extracurricular activities such as shadowing practicing professionals. Guidance through every step, including advice on preparing for the GRE and effective application strategies, ensures you’re on the right track towards professional programs like those at UNMC or Creighton University.
Key Features:
- Academic Guidance: Clearly outlined prerequisites and elective recommendations.
- Shadowing Opportunities: Encouragement to gain real-world experience.
- Application Support: Resources and advisors to assist with application preparation.
Southeast Community College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
At Southeast Community College’s PTA Program, students are trained to become skilled assistants to physical therapists.
This program boasts an impressive 89.5% ultimate pass rate for the National Physical Therapy Examination and a 100% job placement rate within a year of graduation. Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), this program offers robust coursework and clinical exposure.
Key Features:
- Accreditation: Fully accredited by CAPTE.
- Pass Rate: 89.5% success rate on the National PT Examination.
- Job Placement: 100% job placement rate within one year of graduation.
- Flexible Opportunities: Provides various job opportunities upon graduation.
Curriculum flexibility guides you towards licensures and varied practice settings, though you will need to ensure acceptance of credentials state by state.
Creighton University – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
A pioneer in the field, Creighton University’s DPT program integrates rigorous academic learning with professional practice.
With its focus on self-reflection and viewing physical therapy as a calling, the program involves clinical practices, faculty-guided learning communities, and specialty tracks in areas like Sports and Women’s Health. Collaborations with CHI Health allow for robust interprofessional education.
Key Features:
- Specialty Tracks: Focus areas including Sports and Women’s Health.
- High Employment Rate: 100% employment rate within 12 months of graduation.
- Nationally Ranked: Recognized as a top 10 PT program by U.S. News & World Report.
- Accreditation: Accredited by CAPTE.
Clinical Placements and collaborations ensure diversified, quality education, prepping you well for the National Physical Therapy Exam and a rewarding career.
The College of Saint Mary – Doctorate in Physical Therapy
The College of Saint Mary’s DPT program offers a flexible structure, allowing completion within 31 months.
With CAPTE accreditation and a small class size, this program ensures personalized attention and thorough preparation for the National Physical Therapy Exam. The curriculum focuses on clinical practice, ensuring you receive hands-on training crucial for real-world application.
Key Features:
- Small Class Sizes: Ensures personalized learning experiences.
- Accreditation: Fully accredited by CAPTE.
- Flexible Structure: Program completion within 31 months.
This program selectively admits students based on their academic merit and holistic achievements.
Clarkson College – Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program
Established in 1994, Clarkson College’s PTA program provides a robust foundation in rehabilitative care.
Accredited by CAPTE, the program features over 250 clinical sites across 25 states and offers hybrid learning opportunities. Graduates not only earn an associate degree but can also pursue a PTA bachelor’s degree, opening avenues for an enhanced career trajectory.
Key Features:
- Accreditation: Fully accredited by CAPTE.
- Extensive Clinical Network: Over 250 clinical sites in 25 states.
- Hybrid Learning: Flexibility in learning through hybrid courses.
- Professional Recognition: Recognized by the American Physical Therapy Association.
This program emphasizes safe and effective rehabilitation practices, and its intimate student-to-faculty ratio ensures comprehensive education and support throughout your academic journey.
Nebraska Methodist College – Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program
Nebraska Methodist College’s Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program is a highly regarded program equipped to prepare you for a successful career as a PTA. This program is accredited by CAPTE and captures the essence of both theoretical and practical learning in the field of physical therapy.
The program features a curriculum that can be completed within 21 months, coupled with a compelling 100% pass rate on national certification exams for eight out of the last ten years. This success rate is backed by a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experiences.
Key Features:
- Completion Time: Finish the program within 21 months.
- Pass Rate: Consistent 100% pass rate on certification exams.
- Clinical Experience: Extensive hands-on practice.
- Additional Benefits: Alumni receive free certification and discounted continuing education units.
Graduates entering the job market can expect a competitive median salary and optimistic career outlook.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln – Physical Therapy Services
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Physical Therapy Services offers comprehensive treatment plans for various musculoskeletal issues. This program, provided by licensed PTs, covers a wide spectrum of therapeutic practices.
Services Offered:
- Therapeutic Exercises: Customized exercise routines to improve strength, flexibility, and overall function.
- Manual Therapy: Techniques to alleviate pain and improve movement.
- Specialized Treatments: Including aquatic therapy, dry needling, and more.
- Modalities: Use of ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and other modalities to enhance recovery.
These services are available to students, faculty, and their dependents. The program focuses on creating individualized care plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs.
Madonna TherapyPlus – Physical Therapy Programs
Madonna TherapyPlus provides bespoke physical therapy treatments, focusing on both orthopedic and neurological conditions.
The program offers innovative and evidence-based care, delivered by an experienced team who ensure each patient receives a personalized care plan.
Key Services:
- Orthopedic Injuries: Treatment for sports injuries and post-surgical rehabilitation.
- Neurological Conditions: Rehab for conditions like stroke, Parkinson’s, and traumatic brain injury.
- Specialized Equipment: Using state-of-the-art tools to enhance therapy outcomes.
- Patient-Centric Approach: Focus on individualized care ensuring effective recovery.
Madonna TherapyPlus serves multiple locations, each designed to cater to different patient needs.
Nebraska Wesleyan University – Pre-Physical Therapy Education Program
Nebraska Wesleyan University’s Pre-Physical Therapy Education program lays a solid foundation, facilitating entry into Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs. It boasts a high success rate, with 90% of its students being accepted into PT programs.
Key Highlights:
- Core Courses: Strong focus on anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, and physics.
- High Acceptance Rate: 90% of students gain admission to PT programs.
- Comprehensive Resources: Access to academic support and professional development resources.
- Regional & National Reach: Offers guidance for applying to various PT programs.
The university aims to foster an environment that prioritizes personal and professional growth, ensuring students are well-prepared for advanced studies in physical therapy.
How to Choose the Best Physical Therapy Program in Lincoln NE
Selecting the right physical therapy program in Lincoln, NE is crucial for your future career. Here are some considerations to guide your selection process:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by CAPTE to meet industry standards.
- Curriculum Quality: Look for programs offering a balanced mix of theoretical and practical training.
- Hands-On Training: Clinical placements and hands-on practice are essential for real-world experience.
- Faculty Expertise: Research the qualifications and experience of the program’s instructors.
- Job Placement Rates: Review the program’s success in placing graduates into jobs.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate tuition fees and available financial aid options.
- Location: Consider the program’s proximity to your home and its convenience.
- Student Reviews: Read testimonials from current and former students to gauge their experiences.
- Exam Pass Rates: Check the program’s track record for licensure exam pass rates.
- Career Services: Availability of career counseling and job placement services.
Choosing a program that aligns with your career goals and lifestyle is critical in ensuring a fulfilling educational experience and a successful career in physical therapy.
Conclusion
Lincoln, NE offers a diverse range of high-quality physical therapist programs designed to meet various needs and career aspirations. Whether it’s an extensive education pathway or a specialized assistant program, you have ample options to choose from. Begin your journey by exploring these programs, each of which is equipped to help you reach your career goals in physical therapy.
For more detailed information, follow the links provided and take the first step towards a rewarding career in physical therapy.