In addition to having the region’s most affordable tuition, we offer thousands of dollars in scholarships every year. Learn more about scholarships and aid to help you on your path to a physical therapy degree.
About the Pre-Physical Therapy Program
Physical therapy, or PT, is a branch of medicine that helps patients recover from physical injury. It focuses on correct movement of the body for the best mobility, function, and quality of life for patients of all activity levels. To become a physical therapist, you’ll need to first obtain a bachelor’s degree. Applied Human and Sport Physiology or Biology are recommended programs of study. After getting your bachelor’s degree, you’ll be ready to enter a professional Physical Therapy program at graduate school to obtain your Physical Therapy degree. The University of Nebraska Medical Center, Creighton University, and the University of South Dakota are popular choices for PT students, but there are many others. Information about the prerequisites for other PT schools can be found at www.ptcas.org.
Biology Track

Applied Human and Sport Physiology Track


Percent of recent WSC graduates employed or in graduate school
based on the most recent graduate survey
Fast Facts
Degrees offered: This program is set up so you can receive your B.S. from Wayne State. Then you’ll be ready to move on to graduate work in a professional Physical Therapy program.
Suggested courses of study at WSC: Biology, Applied Human and Sport Physiology
Popular minors: Spanish, Biology, Psychology, Exercise Science
Hours required:
For program: Hours may vary
General education: 30
To graduate from WSC: 120
School: Science, Health, and Criminal Justice
Departments: Life Sciences, Health, Human Performance, and Sport
Grades: 3.5 or better needed to enter medical school
Our Focus is Results
Wayne State has the keys to your success and offers just what you need to become well prepared for the real world in the pre-physical therapy program.
Skills Learned
- Research, data collection, and analysis
- Lab techniques
- Observation and communication
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
Biology Track
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Evolutionary processes, biological systems and structures
Applied Human and Sport Physiology Track
- Knowledge of body structure and function; athletic performance and nutrition, kinesiology / biomechanics
- Health status and risk factor identification
- Prevention and care of injuries, injury evaluation, fitness appraisal
- Principles of strength and conditioning, cardiac rehabilitation, and exercise prescription
- First aid and CPR
- Nutritional counseling and assessment
Possible Careers
- Physical therapist
- PT program director
- Rehabilitation specialist
- Physical therapy educator
Employers
- Hospitals
- Outpatient clinics
- Nursing homes
- Sports clinics
- Sports teams or clubs
- Home health agencies
- Rehabilitation facilities
- Non-profit organizations
- Schools, colleges, and universities
- Community wellness centers

Rural Health Opportunities Program (RHOP)
The pre-physical therapy program is eligible for RHOP. The only program of its kind in the state of Nebraska, RHOP educates students from rural Nebraska who will return to practice in rural areas of the state. If selected for RHOP, you’ll receive free tuition at Wayne State College and guaranteed admission to UNMC where you'll continue your studies in the physical therapy program.
Learn From the Best
Our faculty are accomplished. Several are highly regarded as experts and have been recognized with notable honors and awards. And with a low student-to-faculty ratio, you'll be sure to receive an excellent education in the pre-physical therapy program.
Outside the Classroom
At Wayne State College, you’ll have opportunities to enhance your education in the pre-physical therapy program by participating in clubs, organizations, activities, and more.

Clubs and Organizations

Service-Learning
Make a difference in the community while learning skills you can apply toward your future career. Wayne State’s Service-Learning program has received national awards in recognition of outstanding community service, with more than 400 students participating in Service-Learning projects each semester.

Opportunities
- Research, trips, and more – Conduct your own research and even present your findings at regional conferences, help judge at the Junior Academy of Science Fair, and visit area science labs.
- Peer tutoring and mentoring programs – Help fellow students master their courses and improve their skills, or be part of a support system for new students, all while gaining valuable experience for your resume.
- Study Abroad - Earn credit toward your degree while experiencing exciting global adventures overseas.

Internships
Internships are not required for the pre-professional physical therapy program at Wayne State College, as these are typically completed in your final years of professional school for degree completion. However, Career Services is available to help you find job opportunities if you are looking for field-related work experience.