B.S.,
Natural Science,
Pre-Physical Theraphy Track
College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
What You'll Do
Helping a senior citizen who has suffered an injury regain the ability to walk, working with a child who has disabilities, or helping an athlete get back the full range of motion in an injured arm are examples of the ways physical therapists change people’s lives. As a Natural Science Pre-Physical Therapy major at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, you’ll benefit from an accelerated, three-year program.
In the Pre-Physical Therapy track, you’ll receive an excellent educational foundation for further studies in physical therapy. You may benefit from special arrangements IUP has made that could allow you to transfer credits from your first year at Gannon University Physical Therapy Program in Erie, Pa., to IUP to satisfy your senior year graduation requirements.
At IUP, you’ll take a block of classes in biology, chemistry, and physics to prepare you for the Doctor of Physical Therapy program. You’ll also take IUP classes in the humanities and social sciences. If you prefer to finish your bachelor’s degree in four years, there are other options and majors at IUP you may want to consider.
What You'll Become
The Bachelor of Science degree program in Natural Science achieved through pursuit of the Pre-Physical Therapy track will prepare you for admission, after your junior year, to the Gannon University Physical Therapy Program in Erie, Pa.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapists is expected to increase by 27 percent from 2006 to 2016, which is faster-than-average growth. Job opportunities, according to the report, should be good, especially in acute hospital, rehabilitation, and orthopedic job settings. Although proposed laws may have a short-term, adverse impact, the job outlook in the long run is positive.
