What is the best undergraduate major to prepare for physical therapy school?
Due to the large number of general science prerequisites, some students have found that majors such as Biology, Psychology, Athletic Training, and Exercise Physiology are most beneficial. However, a broad spectrum of undergraduate majors has produced successful physical therapists. Although a bachelor's degree is required, there is no single major that is superior to another for entrance into the physical therapy program.

What other classes aside from the prerequisites do you find most beneficial in preparing you for PT school?
Students have found that courses in kinesiology, exercise physiology, abnormal psychology, immunology, and microbiology have been beneficial. Introductory level courses in management, marketing, finance, and research have also been recommended.  

Do you think volunteer work is beneficial?
Yes, working as a volunteer or an aide will provide many valuable experiences in understanding what the profession encompasses. This experience can help to ensure that physical therapy is the best career choice for them.  

Is your program accredited?
Yes, Wheeling Jesuit University is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).  

What do you feel are the strengths of a Problem-Based Learning Program?
Problem-Based Learning (PBL) best prepares students with the skills necessary to enter the professional environment. Students from a PBL program typically have strong research, problem solving, and critical thinking skills and perform more comfortably and successfully within groups due to the interactive nature of the program. PBL builds on previous knowledge and integrates science into clinical practice. Research and critical appraisal skills prepare the WJU graduate to become a learner for life.  

What is the major adjustment one has to make in a PBL program?
The nature of a PBL program requires the student to be able to recognize learning issues and to organize his or her studies. Students are responsible for their own investigation of course objectives outside of class. The demands and pace of the program require students to mature professionally and to develop their own study skills. They must also be prepared to learn how to solve problems by working with their peers, not asking the instructor for the "answers."  

Where do students live? Can you help me find a roommate?
As of January 2000, WJU has graduate student housing situated near the campus. The facility offers graduate students quality housing at a reasonable cost. Most apartments have two bedrooms, an eat-in kitchen, a bathroom, and a living room. A few one-bedroom apartments are also available at an additional cost. All apartments are fully furnished and have computer internet capability. For additional information, please contact Housing and Residence Life at 304-243-2301.  

Can I work while I'm in PT school?
Students, in the past, have found that there is very little time available outside of class and study time. Students who have been employed have experienced difficulty keeping up with classroom responsibilities.  

Do I have to have a license to practice physical therapy?
Yes, all fifty states require PTs to be licensed to practice.  

Is there a licensure examination?
Yes, there is a national examination used by all fifty states. Each state differs on the interpretation of the results.  

How do WJU graduates do on the licensure examination?
WJU students have done very well on the examination. Previous graduating classes have a combined 99% passing rate on their first attempt and 100% on a subsequent attempt.  

Does your program offer specialization?
Clinical specialties are viewed as advanced competencies and are, therefore, not a part of our curriculum. We have board certified specialists as faculty and a large selection and variety of clinical education experiences to provide the best "GENERALIST" education possible.  

How can I obtain additional information about the program or profession?
For any further information, you can call the department at (304) 243-2432 or e-mail the department at wjudpt@wju.edu .