Pre-Occupational or Physical Therapy

Degree Overview

The pre-occupational or physical therapy tracks are designed to prepare you for work as an occupational or physical therapy generalist in a clinical, educational, administrative or research career. Biology or exercise science bachelor's degrees are common but not required. 

Since course requirements vary from program to program, you are advised to be aware of the specific requirements of each program in which you intend to apply. In general, the guidelines that follow are in accord with the recommendations of most professional occupational and physical therapy schools offering doctor or master's programs. Specifically, they satisfy the University of South Dakota's prerequisites for admission to its accredited Doctor of Occupational Therapy and Doctor of Physical Therapy programs.

Outcomes

A pre-occupational or physical therapy degree prepares graduates for various career opportunities in the healthcare field, particularly in rehabilitation therapy. Most commonly, the pre-occupational or physical therapy tracks are the path to continue your education to become licensed occupational therapists or physical therapists, specializing in helping patients regain movement and function after injury or illness.

Graduates can work as rehabilitation aides or assistants, assisting occupational or physical therapists in providing patient care and exercises in rehabilitation centers or hospitals. Others may pursue roles in healthcare administration, managing therapy departments, coordinating patient services and ensuring compliance with regulations. 

Career Outlook

  • Average Salary: $100,227
  • Job Postings: 22,654

Average salary is based on an occupational therapist position from Salary.com. Job posting data is for occupational therapist positions and is provided by Lightcast. This number represents unique job postings from companies looking to hire in the last 30 days as of May 2024.

An occupational therapist position would require a graduate degree.

Students who choose this program usually major in biology and/or excercise science.

Biology

Exercise Science

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