Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Physical Therapist Programs in Baltimore, Columbia, and Germantown.
Do you want to become a top-notch physical therapist in Maryland?
This guide highlights the best Physical Therapist Programs in Maryland, offering detailed insights on accredited schools, unique features, and essential information to help you choose the perfect program for your career goals.
University of Maryland School of Medicine – Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at the University of Maryland School of Medicine stands out as a premier choice for aspiring physical therapists seeking excellence in education and clinical practice.
Recognized for its rigorous curriculum, the program covers extensive areas of foundational and clinical sciences. You will gain comprehensive knowledge in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and more, equipping you to become an independent, entry-level practitioner.
Key Highlights:
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), ensuring high educational standards.
- Program Length: The program spans 2 years and 8 months, integrating intensive classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experiences.
- Clinical Practice: Gain 32 weeks of full-time clinical experience, providing substantial hands-on practice.
- Research Opportunities: Engage with faculty actively participating in scientific research, enhancing your exposure to innovative practices.
- Eligibility for Licensure: Graduates are eligible to sit for the licensure exam in Maryland.
Admission Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- Completion of prerequisite courses with a satisfactory GPA.
- GRE scores (if applicable).
Regarding costs, tuition varies based on residency and year of enrollment. Additional fees may include expenses for required devices and materials. You can find detailed admission requirements, curriculums, and costs on their program page.
University of Maryland Eastern Shore – Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
At the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) campus, the Doctor of Physical Therapy program offers a robust curriculum designed to foster expertise and professional growth.
With its CAPTE accreditation and expert faculty, the three-year program delivers extensive education in subjects such as visceral anatomy, neuroscience, and therapeutic exercises. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of classroom instruction and clinical practice, providing practical, real-world skills.
Key Highlights:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Encompasses subjects like human movement analysis, clinical medicine, and therapeutic exercises.
- Clinical Experiences: Includes both integrated and full-time clinical experiences, ensuring hands-on learning.
- Research Component: Students complete research projects and present at symposiums, enhancing their critical thinking and professional skills.
- Program Length: A total of 118 credits over three years, designed to cover all critical aspects of physical therapy.
This program also offers a unique anatomy workshop during the summer and adheres strictly to technical performance standards critical for professional practice. Admission requirements are specific, and tuition costs can vary, making it essential to review detailed information on the UMES program page.
Montgomery College – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Montgomery College is an excellent choice for those aiming to become licensed physical therapist assistants in Maryland.
The program spans five semesters and is accredited by CAPTE, combining rigorous classroom instruction with hands-on patient care skill labs and clinical internships. Designated as a statewide program by the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC), it ensures a well-rounded education leveraging theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Key Highlights:
- Statewide Program Designation: Recognized by MHEC, guaranteeing comprehensive coverage of crucial skills and knowledge.
- Clinical Internships: Features full-time clinical internships offering immersive, real-world experience.
- High Accreditation Standards: CAPTE accreditation ensures adherence to high educational and professional standards.
- Location Specificity: Courses are offered exclusively on the Takoma Park/Silver Spring campus.
The program is designed to prepare students effectively for licensure. Active participation in virtual open houses and Q&A sessions is encouraged to gain deeper insights into the curriculum and requirements. You can find additional details on tuition fees and prerequisites on the Montgomery College program page.
College of Southern Maryland – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
The Physical Therapist Assistant program at the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) is tailored to equip students with the essential skills needed to excel in the dynamic field of physical therapy.
The program ensures that graduates are well-prepared to assist licensed physical therapists in diagnosing and treating patients. It boasts remarkable success rates and a curriculum designed to meet the growing demand for skilled physical therapist assistants.
Key Highlights:
- Licensure Success: Notably, the program had a 100% first-time pass rate on the licensure exam in 2018.
- Projected Growth: Aligns with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ projection of a 29% employment growth for PTAs from 2019-2029.
- Consortium: Part of the Chesapeake Area Consortium for Higher Education (CACHE), which enhances the educational experience through shared resources.
- Educational Structure: Includes general education courses at CSM, specialized labs at Anne Arundel Community College, and practical clinical experiences.
- Degree and Licensure: Graduates receive an associate’s degree from CSM and become eligible for the national licensing exam.
- Accreditation: Fully accredited by CAPTE, ensuring adherence to high standards.
Prospective students should be mindful of the time commitment and financial investment required for this program. Detailed information on admission requirements and costs can be found on the CSM program page.
Allegany College of Maryland – Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Allegany College of Maryland offers a CAPTE-accredited Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program, emphasizing patient care and practical skills necessary for success in various clinical settings.
The program follows a structured 1+1 model. Students complete General Education Courses (Phase I) before advancing to PTA Clinical Courses (Phase II), ensuring a balanced approach to learning.
Key Highlights:
- Health and Wellness Focus: Curriculum includes strong components on overall health, wellness, and injury prevention.
- Diverse Clinical Settings: Prepares graduates for employment in hospitals, clinics, sports medicine facilities, and other healthcare environments.
- Licensure Examination: Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination for PTAs.
- Accreditation: The program meets CAPTE accreditation standards, ensuring you receive a quality education.
For more detailed information on program specifics, such as the curriculum, admission requirements, and associated costs, visit the Allegany College program page.
How to Choose the Right Physical Therapist Program in Maryland
When selecting a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant program in Maryland, several critical factors can guide your decision:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by CAPTE or another reputable accrediting body. This guarantees high educational standards and eligibility for licensure exams.
- Curriculum: Look for a comprehensive curriculum that covers essential areas such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and clinical methods. Whether the program integrates research opportunities can also be a key consideration.
- Clinical Opportunities: Evaluate the quality and variety of clinical experiences. Programs offering diversified clinical settings with multiple full-time internships provide valuable hands-on practice that is crucial for professional development.
- Faculty Expertise: Research the qualifications and areas of specialization of the program’s faculty. Academic staff engaged in scientific research and professional practice often enhance the learning experience.
- Tuition Costs and Financial Aid: Compare tuition fees and explore financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, or work-study opportunities. Proper financial planning can help you manage costs effectively.
- Program Length: Consider the duration of the program and assess whether it fits your personal timeline and career aspirations.
- Location and Accessibility: The geographical location of the program can impact your daily commute and access to resources and opportunities. Proximity to clinical sites may be an additional benefit.
- Reputation and Pass Rates: Investigate the program’s reputation in the physical therapy community and the licensure exam pass rates of its graduates. High pass rates often correlate with program effectiveness and quality education.
Steps to Ensure a Well-Informed Decision:
- Research Program Websites: Gather comprehensive information on curriculums, costs, and admission criteria from official program websites.
- Attend Open Houses: Participate in virtual or in-person open house events to engage with faculty and current students.
- Speak with Alumni: Connect with alumni to gain insights into their experiences and career trajectories post-graduation.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision and select a program that aligns with your educational and professional goals.
Physical Therapist Programs By State
Conclusion
Maryland offers diverse and high-quality physical therapy programs designed to support your educational journey and career aspirations. Each program highlighted here provides unique strengths and opportunities tailored to various learning preferences and professional goals.
Take the first step towards your career in physical therapy by exploring these top physical therapist programs in Maryland. Whether you aim to become a physical therapist or a physical therapist assistant, Maryland has exceptional options to help you achieve your goals.