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Biology Major: Pre-Physical Therapy Track

Help others improve their quality of life through a transformative career.

Are you driven to make a difference in people’s lives by promoting better health through movement and healthier lifestyles? Transform your passion into a fulfilling career that has a positive impact, starting at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.

Within our biology major, our pre-physical therapy track offers a rigorous curriculum and hands-on learning opportunities to launch your journey toward becoming a licensed physical therapist. Our comprehensive program provides an immersive, well-rounded education in biological sciences, giving you a solid foundation in the sciences and the skills needed to compete for entrance into a graduate Doctor of Therapy (DTP) program.

Physical therapy (PT) is an allied health profession that focuses on the prevention and rehabilitation of various musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. As a physical therapist, you’ll work under the supervision of a physician to diagnose injuries and illnesses, create treatment plans, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and even prescribe medications.

Physical therapists play an integral role within any comprehensive healthcare team. This allows you mobility throughout your career and offers variety in workplace settings. While many physical therapists work in hospitals, others are found in private PT offices, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, corporate or industrial health centers, sports facilities, schools, and universities.

At Saint Mary’s, our dedicated faculty is dedicated to ensuring that you are well-prepared for a career in physical therapy. We draw strength from our deep-rooted Lasallian Catholic heritage and our commitment extends beyond guiding you through your academic and professional journey; we’re here to nurture a life committed to service and leadership — one that will have a positive impact on the world.

Join us at Saint Mary’s and take the first step in becoming a highly trained health professional, serving with compassion, empathy, respect for all persons, and dignity. Because of you, the world will be a better place.

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Program Highlights

  • Acquire practical learning opportunities through practical laboratory work, exploring human anatomy, genetics, cell biology, physiology, microbiology, and immunology.
  • Pursue a minor in Spanishpsychology, or health humanities that can help develop a deeper understanding of various disciplines and foster future patient relationships.
  • Experience a world of possibilities while spending a semester studying abroad at St Mary’s University in Twickenham, London. Study alongside students from around the world, representing 90 nationalities, as you explore the humanities, social sciences, or applied science.
  • Stand out in your field like many of our graduates who gained admission and enrolled in physical therapy programs at St. Scholastica, Concordia University, and the University of Iowa.

What You'll Learn

  • Foundation in core concepts of human anatomy, biology, chemistry, and physics
  • Deep understanding of physiology and functions of the human body system
  • Competence in modern health care ethics and issues in the sciences
  • Effective and professional communication in various forms to work with multidisciplinary teams
  • Strong ethos with a focus on ethical leadership and character development

Called to serve in academics and athletics.

Jordan Keeley’s passion for helping others led her to double major in biology: pre-physical therapy and leadership.

“Through a career in physical therapy, I am able to mix my passions for science and service,” she said. “I want to help someone recover from an injury and get back to what they love doing.”

Admissions

Your journey towards a brighter future starts here. Whether you’re a high school graduate starting your college search — or a transfer student eager to find the perfect fit — Saint Mary’s is committed to helping you find your place in the world.

Course Catalog

Careers that look to the future.

Physical therapists are in high-demand with jobs expected to grow 15 percent from 2022-32 — faster than most occupations. Learn more about employment outcomes here.

Physical Therapist

$97,720 per year*

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1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Physical Therapists at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/accountants-and-auditors.htm (visited Nov. 1, 2023).

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