WSU Doctor of Physical Therapy Pathway

Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science

Exercise Science provides a comprehensive foundation in the science of human movement, physical function and rehabilitation sciences. Students develop expertise in anatomy, biomechanics, exercise physiology, injury prevention, and theraputic exercise while gaining hands-on experience through practicum and internship opportunities. These experiences make Exercise Science an excellent pathway for students interested in physical therapy

Why Choose Exercise Science

• Strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and human movement.
• Excellent preparation for orthopedic, sports, and rehabilitation medicine.
• Aligns well with PA program prerequisites.

Applied Learning

Students complete both practicum and internship experiences that provide valuable exposure to healthcare, wellness, and human performance settings.

Bachelor of Science in Health Science

Health Science provides a flexible and customizable foundation for students pursuing physician associate and other clinical education programs. Students explore healthcare delivery, population health, epidemiology, healthcare policy, ethics, leadership, quality improvement, and interprofessional communication while tailoring science coursework to support DPT prerequisite requirements. Combined with applied learning experiences, Health Science helps students develop a broad understanding of healthcare systems and the social, behavioral, and environmental factors that influence patient outcomes.

 

Why Choose Health Science?

• Flexible curriculum that supports individualized academic planning.
• Broad foundation in healthcare systems, population health, and health professions.
• Allows students to customize coursework to meet PA prerequisite requirements.
• Develops leadership, communication, and interprofessional collaboration skills.
• Provides insight into healthcare policy, quality improvement, ethics, and population health.
• Popular pathway for physician associate and other healthcare professional programs.

Applied Learning

Students complete an Applied Learning Portfolio that documents and reflects on experiences related to leadership, professionalism, service, and career readiness. The portfolio encourages students to connect classroom learning with real-world healthcare experiences while developing the critical thinking, self-reflection, and leadership competencies needed to succeed in physician associate education and healthcare organizations
Prepares students to become clinical leaders and healthcare change agents.

• Be on track to earn a bachelor’s degree in health sciences from Wichita State University (WSU) or has earned a bachelor’s degree in health sciences from WSU in the past academic year.
• Maintain a cumulative college GPA of 3.60 or higher.
• Maintain a cumulative science GPA of 3.60 or higher.
• Complete all required PT prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
• Active member of the Pre-PT Club while enrolled at WSU.
• Complete 100 physical therapy observation hours across multiple clinical settings (i.e., pediatrics, geriatrics, etc.).
• Submit an application to the Wichita State University Doctor of Physical Therapy Program by the October 1 priority deadline.

Admission to the DPT Pathway is competitive and not guaranteed.

Each application cycle, the Wichita State University Department of Physical Therapy reserves:

• Six (6) seats for Exercise Science majors
• Six (6) seats for Health Science majors

Students are evaluated using the DPT program's admissions criteria in addition to pathway requirements. Applicants compete only with students from their respective pathway for the reserved seats. Students who are not selected for a reserved pathway seat remain eligible for consideration through the standard DPT admissions process.

Successful DPT Pathway applicants typically demonstrate:

• A cumulative GPA well above the 3.60 minimum.
• Strong academic performance in all prerequisite coursework, has a science GPA of 3.60 or higher.
• Observation experiences across multiple physical therapy settings and patient populations.
• Consistent involvement in the Pre-PT Club and other professional, leadership, or service activities.
• Meaningful applied learning experiences, including research, internships, volunteer work, or clinical exposure.
• A clear commitment to the physical therapy profession demonstrated through sustained exploration of the field.

The PHS to DPT  Pathway is available to transfer students. Students considering transferring to the Wichita State Health Science for the ExSc/HS to DPT Pathway are encouraged to seek dual advising with the College of Health Professions Student Advising Center.

Transfer students are encouraged to visit the CHP Transfer Student page for important information and consider dual advising through the CHP Student Advising Center. Dual advising helps ensure that courses taken at a community college will align with program requirements.