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Pre-Professional

Pre-Physical Therapy

Pre-Physical Therapy (PT) is an academic designation, not a degree-granting major, designed to help you prepare for physical therapy school. As a Pre-PT student, you’ll complete the prerequisite courses needed to apply to Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs while having the flexibility to choose a major that fits your interests.

This path prepares you for a career focused on helping others improve movement, recover from injury, and enhance quality of life. You’ll be supported by a dedicated Pre-Professional Health Careers advisor every step of the way.

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Academic Designation

Pre-Physical Therapy

Department

University Advising

Coursework Requirement

4 years of coursework before PT School application

Strategically Prepare for PT School

Build the foundation to prepare, stand out, and take your next step with confidence.

Pre-Professional Health Programs

  • Personalized Guidance

    Work one-on-one with dedicated pre-health advisors who help you plan your courses, stay on track, and build a strong, competitive application for dental school.

    Meet the Team

  • Mentorship Experience

    Gain firsthand insight into health professions programs through mentorship with Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center students, including classes, experiences and guidance on becoming a competitive applicant.

    Mentor Program

  • Support You Can Count On

    Take advantage of academic resources and campus support designed to help you meet the rigor of Pre-Dental and stay on track.

    Campus Resources

Career Paths & Salary Ranges

Explore the paths Physical Therapy students have taken and the meaningful careers they’ve gone on to pursue in the field and beyond.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

All students are considered for merit scholarships when they apply for admission. Admitted students can find additional internal and external scholarship opportunities through Scholarship Universe.

All Scholarships

Scholarships for Pre-Health Students

Pre-Professional Health Careers (PPHC) offers dedicated scholarships for students pursuing careers in health care, helping support you as you work toward your goals.

View Department Scholarships

Meet the dedicated pre-health advisors who will guide you as you plan your courses, stay on track, and build a strong, competitive PT School application.

Advisor Directory Assistant Director’s Welcome

Student Organizations

  • Pre-Physical Therapy Club

    The Pre-Physical Therapy Club connects Pre-PT students to meaningful volunteer opportunities, insights from practicing physical therapists and DPT program representatives, and current trends in the field. Its mission is to equip students with the resources and guidance to confidently choose, apply to, and interview for DPT programs while building strong connections through community, service, and shared experiences.


    Pre-Physical Therapy Club

  • HOSA Future Health Professionals

    Texas Tech’s only international pre-health organization, HOSA provides opportunities for students of all backgrounds to grow as leaders in their chosen pre-health path. Through national affiliation, members can access scholarships, leadership development, competition, and service opportunities, with the chance to represent Texas Tech at state and international conferences.


    HOSA Future Health Professionals

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Reach out to our team to learn more about the incredible opportunities at Texas Tech.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Pre-Physical Therapy a major?

Pre-Physical Therapy is an academic designation that shows your intent to apply to physical therapy school while completing the required prerequisite courses and obtaining a four-year degree, not a degree-granting major.

Do I have to declare a major if I’m Pre-PT?

Yes, most students will need to complete a bachelor’s degree before entering a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.

When should I declare a major?

You can declare a major at any time as an incoming applicant, admitted student or current student. If you plan to declare a major, it’s recommended to choose one by the semester you intend to apply to physical therapy school.

Which PT schools can I apply to?

Pre-PT students often apply to multiple Doctor of Physical Therapy programs, including the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock.

Programs

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