Pre-Physical Therapy Timeline

This timeline serves as a general guide for the Pre-Physical Therapy track at Florida State University. Individual pathways may differ based on factors like transfer or accelerated credits, course availability, study abroad, or a gap year. For tailored guidance, meet regularly with your FSU Pre-health Advisor and your major academic advisor via Campus Connect.

 
 

year 1

Courses: General Biology I & II (BSC 2010/2011), General Chemistry I (CHM1045 + lab), English, College Algebra or Pre-Calculus, General Psychology.

  • Resources:

    • Join FSU Pre-PT and pre-health clubs via NoleCentral.

    • Schedule a Pre-health Advising appointment via myFSU Campus Connect to plan prerequisites and clinical experience.

  • Experience:

    • Begin shadowing physical therapists in multiple settings (e.g., outpatient clinics, hospitals, nursing homes).

    • Volunteer with organizations that serve individuals with physical disabilities or chronic conditions.

SUMMER 1 – CLINICAL EXPOSURE

  • Obtain early exposure through volunteer work, internships, or shadowing in PT clinics.

  • Attend FSU Pre-health workshops (e.g., Pre-health 101) and begin logging observation hours (most programs require 50–100+).

 

year 2

Courses: Anatomy & Physiology I & II (PET3322/3323), General Chemistry II (CHM1046), Statistics, Abnormal Psychology, Medical Terminology (if required).

  • Continue accumulating PT observation hours in various settings (inpatient, outpatient, pediatric, orthopedic, etc.).

  • Take on leadership or service roles in student organizations.

  • Meet with your advisor to verify prerequisites for DPT programs of interest.

SUMMER 2 – TEST PREP & EXPERIENCE

  • Continue working or interning in PT or related clinical settings.

  • Begin preparing for the GRE (if required by your programs).

  • Consider summer research or exercise science experience if applicable.

 

year 3

Courses: Physics I & II (PHY 2053C/2054C or PHY 2048C/2049C), Biomechanics or Kinesiology, upper-level electives in exercise physiology or neuroscience.

  • Take the GRE by spring or early summer.

  • Start drafting your personal statement and request letters of recommendation (typically from a PT, a professor, and another professional).

  • Attend workshops on the PTCAS process and interview preparation.

SUMMER 3 – SUBMIT APPLICATION

  • Submit your PTCAS application (opens in June).

  • Continue gaining patient-care experience and prepare for interviews.

  • Begin working on supplemental essays and program-specific requirements.

 

YEAR 4

Courses: Complete major and elective requirements, maintain strong academic performance.

  • Attend DPT program interviews as scheduled.

  • Finalize clinical experiences and observation logs.

  • Meet with your Pre-health Advisor to discuss transition plans or gap year strategy.

  • Graduate!

GAP YEAR (OPTIONAL)

  • Use this time to complete additional prerequisites, boost GPA, gain more clinical experience, or strengthen your application.

  • Consult with your major advisor and Pre-health Advisor for personalized planning.