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Physical Therapy — Accelerated B.S.

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College of Allied Health Physical Therapy
Degree Level
Accelerated & Dual
College
Allied Health
Format
On Ground
Credit Hours
133 undergraduate hours; 75 graduate hours
Average Time to Degree
4 years

Physical Therapy at Harding

This accelerated degree track provides students with the necessary prerequisites for physical therapy school in the first three years and allows them to earn a Bachelor of Science in exercise science after completion of the first year of physical therapy education. Graduate coursework will be completed in years five and six. Students will earn a doctorate in physical therapy and will be eligible to sit for the physical therapy licensure examination.

Learn more about Physical Therapy

Why study Physical Therapy at Harding?

Exercise Science Club

The Exercise Science Club is for undergraduate students looking to grow and develop in their studies and to better know their peers.

Facilities

The Athletic Training Education Program is a part of the department of exercise & sport sciences. This department along with the department of kinesiology and Harding Athletics share facilities in the Ganus Activities Complex. This facility includes modern classrooms, a computer lab, the Human Performance Lab, a work-out center with weight rooms, a swimming pool, racquet ball courts, free play gym, golf center, aerobics room and sports locker rooms/meeting rooms.

A Christian Perspective

Each class, laboratory and clinical experience is founded on the fact that we are fearfully and wonderfully made, and it is an honor to study and teach about God’s creation. With this foundation and our highly trained and motivated faculty living Christ-centered lives, our department is a great place for students to discover their inspired purpose.

What can you do with an accelerated degree in Physical Therapy?

Doctor of Physical Therapy

This undergraduate program provides a thorough understanding of human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and kinesiology, all of which are crucial for advanced studies in physical therapy. Students gain practical experience through internships and lab work, which enhances their readiness for the rigorous clinical and academic demands of a DPT program. This degree also often covers prerequisites required for DPT admissions, ensuring a smooth transition to graduate-level education.

Cardiac/cardio pulmonary rehabilitation specialists

This role involves developing and implementing exercise programs for patients recovering from heart attacks, surgeries or pulmonary conditions. The program's focus on cardiovascular physiology, exercise testing and prescription equips graduates with the necessary skills to assess patients' health, monitor their progress, and design safe, effective rehabilitation plans. This specialization helps improve patients' cardiovascular health, enhance their quality of life and reduce the risk of future cardiac events.

Exercise physiologists

The degree provides a strong foundation in physiology, nutrition and exercise testing, allowing graduates to assess fitness levels, design personalized exercise regimens and conduct research on physical activity's effects. Exercise physiologists work in various settings, including hospitals, fitness centers and research institutions, promoting physical wellness and helping individuals achieve their fitness and health goals.

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Contact Information


Physical Therapy
501-279-5990
pt@harding.edu