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Physical Therapy Education: Building a Purposeful Career

Keiser University offers a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, Pre-DPT Bridge designed for students seeking to advance toward a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree through flexible, career-oriented education. This undergraduate degree program serves as a pathway for pre-PT students preparing to apply to DPT programs.

Deepen Your Knowledge in Medical Imaging and Technology

Build advanced skills and career advancement opportunities in Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Nuclear Medicine Technology, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, and more.

Complete Essential Prerequisite Courses

Build the academic foundation needed to meet DPT program requirements through structured coursework in biological sciences, behavioral sciences, and clinical preparation.

Prepare for Graduate-Level Physical Therapy Education

Gain the interdisciplinary knowledge base that physical therapy schools look for when evaluating applicants to their Doctor of Physical Therapy programs. The curriculum emphasizes clinical education principles and evidence based practice.

Position Yourself for Physical Therapy Graduate Programs

Complete bachelor's degree requirements while focusing on prerequisites often required for entering a DPT program and pursuing a career as a licensed physical therapist working with diverse patient populations.

At a Glance

120

Credit Hours

40+

Courses

40

Months*

4

Week Terms

  • Up to 12 credits of transfer credit*
  • Pathway toward applying to physical therapy graduate programs
  • Available On-Campus and Hybrid
  • Financial aid for those who qualify**

* Time to degree completion and the number of transfer credits are estimates, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors.
** Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all your financial aid and funding options.

Interdisciplinary Studies Pre-DPT Bridge Concentration, BS Overview

Keiser University’s Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, Pre-DPT Bridge provides physical therapy students with the foundational coursework needed before applying to graduate programs in physical therapy. The physical therapy degree pathway combines general education courses with interdisciplinary concentrations and electives that focus on prerequisites often required for entering a DPT program. Students work through coursework in biological sciences, behavioral sciences, mathematics, and natural sciences while maintaining the flexibility to address their specific academic needs as future physical therapy students preparing for clinical experiences.
 
The degree program allows prospective physical therapy students to complete undergraduate degree requirements while building knowledge in areas frequently emphasized in physical therapy education, such as human anatomy, exercise physiology, clinical reasoning, and evidence based practice. Through careful course selection approved by the campus dean of academic affairs, students create an academic program that strengthens their applications to Doctor of Physical Therapy programs and prepares them for the admissions process. The program serves working professionals, recent high school graduates, career changers, and others pursuing a career in the physical therapy profession who want to gain clinical skills and understanding before entering PT programs.

Program Mission

The mission of Keiser University’s Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies is to prepare students for careers that require multidisciplinary thinking and the ability to integrate multiple perspectives. Students can design a course of study that meets their personal academic objectives and furthers their professional growth and development by combining two or more disciplines into a coherent program.

Program Objectives

The following objectives are designed to meet Keiser University’s mission and its goals. Upon completion of the program, students will:

  • Articulate the integration of two or more programs or disciplines into a unified degree program.
  • Utilize skills of interdisciplinary scholarship and research to integrate multiple perspectives.
  • Articulate critically the fundamental theories and principles underlying each discipline.
  • Apply the knowledge and skills acquired through the program in pursuit of career goals.

Prerequisites

None

Program Highlights

  • Flexible curriculum design allows students to select courses that meet specific DPT program prerequisites
  • Interdisciplinary approach combines natural sciences with behavioral sciences
  • Small class sizes provide personalized attention from experienced faculty in the health professions
  • Coursework can be completed on-campus or in a hybrid format
  • Capstone experience integrates learning across disciplines
  • Emphasizes clinical skills development and clinical reasoning

Estimated Student Costs

Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the university’s catalog or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.

Accreditation Status

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Learn more about Keiser University accreditation. While this program doesn’t require programmatic accreditation, the SACSCOC accreditation ensures Keiser University meets rigorous quality standards, which is crucial for students as it affects access to federal financial aid, the transferability of credits to other accredited schools, and recognition of degrees for graduate programs and employers. This accreditation signifies that the institution adheres to standards that ensure educational quality and institutional effectiveness.

Program Outline

Available On-Campus and Hybrid

Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, Pre-DPT Bridge Degree Courses

The Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, Pre-DPT Bridge at Keiser University provides a pathway toward earning a DPT degree by offering flexibility in coursework to address specific needs of physical therapy students. The program combines general education courses with interdisciplinary concentrations focused on prerequisites often required for entering a DPT program and beginning physical therapy education. Through structured science coursework and clinical courses, students complete bachelor’s degree requirements while building knowledge in areas such as human physiology, exercise physiology, and behavioral sciences that prepare them to practice physical therapy after completing graduate study.
 
The curriculum for the Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, Pre-DPT Bridge consists of 120.0 semester credit hours with the following requirements (Credit hours in parentheses indicate the required number of credit hours in each discipline):

Lower Division Courses

General Education Courses (38.0 semester credit hours)
Behavioral/Social Science (3.0 credit hours)
Introduction to Psychology 3.0 credit hours
Communications (3.0 credit hours)
Speech Communications 3.0 credit hours
Computers (3.0 credit hours)
Introduction to Computers 3.0 credit hours
Economics (6.0 credit hours)
Microeconomics 3.0 credit hours
Macroeconomics 3.0 credit hours
English (6.0 credit hours)
English Composition I 3.0 credit hours
English Composition II 3.0 credit hours
Humanities/Fine Arts (3.0 credit hours)
Any Humanities/Fine Arts course offered at the university 3.0 credit hours
Mathematics (6.0 credit hours)
Any Mathematics courses above Intermediate Algebra offered at the university including Statistics 3.0 credit hours
Natural Science (8.0 credit hours)
General Biology 3.0 credit hours
General Biology Laboratory 1.0 credit hour
Advanced Biology 3.0 credit hours
Advanced Biology Laboratory 1.0 credit hour

Upper Division Courses



Interdisciplinary Concentration (31.0 credit hours)
A selection of 15.0 credit hours in the Pre-DPT Interdisciplinary Concentration and 16.0 credit hours in the Interdisciplinary Concentration of Natural Sciences. The selection of courses is subject to approval by the dean of academic affairs.
Pre-DPT 15.0 credit hours
Natural Sciences 16.0 credit hours
Open Electives (48.0 credit hours)
Must be courses selected from the Eligible Disciplines. A minimum of 25.0 semester credit hours of the program must be taken at the upper division level. A portion of these 48.0 elective hours also may be utilized to expand the upper division interdisciplinary concentration or add additional concentrations, if desired. 48.0 credit hours
Capstone Course (3.0 credit hours)
Interdisciplinary Capstone Experience 3.0 credit hours

If you’re someone who cares about…

Helping people move better, recover faster, and live healthier lives across the life span,

a Pre-DPT Bridge degree might be your career path.

Students pursuing physical therapy education combine scientific knowledge with compassion, critical thinking, and dedication to improving patient outcomes through movement and rehabilitation. Physical therapy students develop clinical skills and clinical reasoning abilities that prepare them for the rigors of a DPT curriculum.

Whether your interest lies in sports medicine, geriatric physical therapy, spinal cord injury rehabilitation, or therapeutic exercise across the life span, this undergraduate degree program gives you the tools to pursue graduate study in the physical therapy profession and eventually work in clinical practice settings.

pre-dpt-bridge-career
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#2 Best 4-year graduation rates, private, nonprofit, nonresidential
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What Jobs Can You Get with a BS Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, Pre-DPT Bridge?

Graduates of Keiser University’s Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, Pre-DPT Bridge complete the prerequisite courses and bachelor’s degree requirements needed to apply to Doctor of Physical Therapy programs. With prerequisites in place, graduates may apply to a DPT program through the application process, although the university makes no guarantee of acceptance in or admission to a DPT program. Upon successful completion of a physical therapy curriculum and passing the National Physical Therapy Examination, graduates can pursue careers as licensed physical therapists in diverse clinical settings.

Career Pathways in Physical Therapy

After successful completion of a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree program and the National Physical Therapy Examination, graduates may work as:

  • Physical therapists in outpatient clinics
  • Rehabilitation specialists in hospitals
  • Physical therapist services providers in nursing homes
  • Sports rehabilitation therapists working with athletes
  • Pediatric physical therapists
  • Geriatric physical therapy specialists
  • Physical therapists in home health care settings
  • Researchers in clinical research settings
  • Providers working alongside primary care physicians and other health care professionals
  • Experts in clinical management, patient education, and clinical practice
pre-dpt-bridge-bs-degree

Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Doctorate of Physical Therapy Career Path

  • Critical thinking and clinical reasoning abilities
  • Research literacy and evidence based practice foundations
  • Understanding of the musculoskeletal system and human movement
  • Knowledge of therapeutic exercise principles and clinical biomechanics
  • Communication skills for working with patients and health care teams
  • Preparation for graduate-level physical therapy curriculum and clinical courses
  • Clinical skills development through coursework and clinical experiences
  • Physical examination techniques

Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels in the health professions.

See What Sets Keiser Apart

Keiser University offers a supportive, student-centered environment that blends a strong sense of community with career-focused education and opportunities to make a meaningful impact. Backed by more than 40 years of history in Florida and thousands of graduates, the university provides flexible learning options both on campus and online. Students at Keiser University describe feeling supported in a family-like environment where personal attention, encouragement, and a strong sense of belonging help them grow both academically and personally. This supportive atmosphere helps students feel confident, educated, and prepared for their future careers. Designed to support personal and professional growth, Keiser offers small class sizes, a one-class-at-a-time schedule, and career-driven programs in nursing, health care, technology, business, and more; creating a focused, student-centered learning experience built for success.

Students Testimonials

At Keiser University we are here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.

Tom Buchanan
Keiser University Nursing Student

Tom Buchanan, a military veteran and nursing student, says Keiser helped him transition into a meaningful healthcare career where he could continue serving his community. He appreciates the strong support available to veterans, including a dedicated VA adviser who is responsive, helpful, and committed to ensuring students fully use the benefits they earned through service.

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Cinematic Arts program graduate

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay, a Cinematic Arts program graduate, has shared her positive experience. She expressed gratitude to her professors, Samantha Kountz and Jean Jacques, for their encouragement and support during her studies. Her story highlights a passion for film production and acknowledges the program’s contribution to her success.

Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student

The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree. Keiser was a great fit.

Kennedy Foster
Sports Management Graduate

Keiser University has always supported me in every aspect of my life. Athletically, they have provided top-notch coaches, athletic trainers, and strength coaches who truly helped mold and build me into the player that I am today. Academically, my professors brought out the best in me and constantly made me think critically in real-world situations, and professionally, my professors truly prepared me for my current job. Every task I am given, I can think back to my time at KU and think of an assignment or discussion that I had.

Antigonie Sanabria
Sports Management student

I picked Keiser because, first of all, it’s a school sports management, so I knew that there would be a higher focus of that here, and I knew I could get the best education that I wanted to have if I attended.

Lee Tamburro
Crime Scene Technology student

Being able to solve problems and try to figure out what exactly happened and try to help whoever is the victim is amazing. In a smaller classroom setting you have more time with your teacher. A lot of times you’re just a name on a paper in a bigger class but in Keiser’s smaller classes format, it’s a little more personable, and one class at a time is very helpful.

Amya Black
Culinary Arts, AS degree student

I chose Keiser because of a good friend of mine. She graduated last year and hearing all the good things about the program really made a difference. And this is possibly the best school experience I’ve had. Your teachers know your name. They know your personality. They know what to expect of you. Honestly, they push you to be the best version of yourself.

Marcus Walton
Keiser University Cybersecurity student

Keiser University is one big giant family and I feel that I’ve I learned a lot more here than I would on a traditional campus. This university has changed my life; I’m more assertive, I am completing tasks more efficiently, and I’ve learned a whole lot about it and cyber security.

Haley Roberge
BS in Forensic Investigations graduate

What I love about Keiser is the fact that there’s intimate class sizes, teachers that actually care about what you’re going to school for and they have real life experience; they’re going to be there for you throughout your journey; it’s not just you see that teacher one time and you’re done.

Will Doyle
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Graduate

I heard about Keiser University through a battle buddy that I was overseas with in the military. For me school was tough; the more one-on-one attention at Keiser helped me a lot and the teachers that seemed to reach out to you and care. I think that little push right there kept me dedicated. I became a gym owner because I got the skills I needed at Keiser.

Alex Avila
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Student

Hands On, Practical Instruction. We have incredible instructors who are very knowledgeable in this field.

Jacvelyne Michel
Keiser University Nursing Student

I chose to study at Keiser University because they offer the accelerated nursing program which I could get my BS in in 16 months. They push us to do our best and they’re very fixated on us passing all of our classes and understanding the concepts. And they really prepare us well for the NCLEX exam.

Ryan G
Culinary Arts Graduates

“I know that when I go for a job interview and I have Keiser University on my resume that I am going to get the job.”

Jillian Bellis
Keiser University Nursing Student

Jillian Bellis, a nursing student, says Keiser University gave her the opportunity to return to school and pursue her lifelong passion for nursing. She highlights key benefits of Keiser, including flexible pathways for adult learners and career changers, supportive programs designed for students at different life stages, and the chance to pursue meaningful, career-focused education later in life.

Solange Mondesir
Keiser University College of Nursing Student

Seeing Keiser nurses out in the field – Keiser pushes out good nurses. So, I know I’m going to be prepared once I step out of the program.

Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student

The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree.  Keiser was a great fit.

Kiefer Suau
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering graduate

Keiser University provided me with the foundation to turn ambition into action, equipping me with the discipline, purpose, and support necessary to make a lasting impact. The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology, while advancing my career as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst for Behavioral Pedestal LLC and Spring Health ABA.

Brian Mardy, RN
Associates of Science Degree in Nursing

I was an active reservist and wanted to enter nursing. Keiser University provided me with new opportunities to do much more in life.

Gaelen Przybylowicz
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations – Forensics Concentration Graduate

I learned a lot about my subject field while attending Keiser. All my teachers continually promoted success and successful thinking, and my peers helped me to a higher standard than others because they knew I could achieve more.

Christy Marek
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations Graduate

KU taught me how to thoroughly do an investigation, read a police report, and understand crime scenes and photos of crime scenes along with any other evidentiary items. I really loved the classes in our program as well as being able to focus on one class a month. It allowed me to learn more.

Brandon Alexander Presley
Legal Studies Student

“My experience at Keiser has been incredible, especially because of the small class sizes—they’re really catered to us and make learning more personal and engaging. As a veteran, I was worried about adjusting back to a structured routine, but the campus made that transition much easier.   Overall, this campus has truly become like a family to me.”

Sarah S.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

I cannot thank Keiser University enough for the experience and the learning opportunities I have had here. I never thought that at 20 years old, I would be halfway through my bachelor’s degree and working full-time as a medical assistant.

Quondra B.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

“I have had the experience of dealing with classes that accommodated my schedule of being a full-time employee as well as a full-time mother of three. The hands-on experience and the knowledge received was outstanding. I was elated by the amount of information I received in such a short period of time.”

Danna Murphy
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“I really enjoyed the small class sizes and having an advisor at the campus who was able to guide me when I needed advice. I could take the program online, which helped tremendously as I was staying home with my children. Being able to do my schoolwork on my own timetable helped me to be accessible for my children and my husband.”

Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Paralegal Studies Graduate

“Keiser University provided me with everything I needed for my future career as a licensed Florida Bar Attorney. While at KU I retained an Associates Degree in the Paralegal Studies Program. The Program helped me develop not only the essential skills a paralegal is required to hold but also long-term practical and professional skills.”

Justin Pugh
Full Stack Engineer

“The instructors at Keiser University impacted my life. They believed in my ability to become a great graphic designer, regardless of how I felt about my skills. KU helped to prepare me for the real world and got me to where I am today.”

John F. Phelan
Fire Chief – Mashpee, MA

“When I first enrolled, I was new to the online educational environment and nervous as to how the experience would go. Keiser University has a knack for selecting educators who are perfect for this method of instruction, which allowed me and my fellow classmates to get up to speed quickly.”

Wayne Webb
Criminal Justice Graduate

“KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program. I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.”

Emily Emilov
Forensic Investigations Graduate

“At Keiser University we’re here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.”

Ayden Przybylowicz
Associate of Science in Culinary Arts Graduate

“Because of the experiences I had at Keiser, along with the contacts I made, I made great progress throughout my career already. I thoroughly enjoyed the quality of my education at KU.”

Jennifer Kotzur
Curriculum and Instruction, PhD

“The C & I program at Keiser University is one of the best PhD programs, offering student-center learning and student-first learning. KU provided the rigor and growth I needed to be prepared for my future endeavors.”

Marie Boone
Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN

“I chose Keiser University because I was looking for a local University that was flexible and suited my needs as a parent and full-time RN. The weekly live interactions with the professors were a definite plus. The tuition was reasonable and less than other Universities. Keiser University’s motto, “purity, truth, wisdom” was honored by the commitment of the nursing faculty to the students.”

Javier Araque
Keiser University’s College of Nursing

“My name is Javier Araki, and I’m in the nursing program at Keiser University. What stands out most to me is their students-first approach. Everything is centered on preparing us for the real-world demands of the field. The faculty and staff genuinely support you and help in every way they can. Because of that environment, I truly feel empowered and confident about my future in nursing.”

Anthony Alber
KU Sport Management and Operations, MS Graduate

“I am forever grateful to have been a part of the Keiser Sports Management program! Not only did I gain professional momentum to kickstart my career, I received help from professors that truly care about their students and made great friends along the way.”

Osmara Cailam
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“Choosing Keiser was instrumental because they offered small class sizes and the faculty provided one-on-one time with all of the students. Being in an online program, it is essential to have someone accessible to you and the faculty was always there when we needed them. I was also impressed at the structure, organization and curriculum for the program at Keiser.”

Ryan Bushey
Content and Media Production

“My instructors weren’t interested in just teaching. They were invested in every single student. They were invested in me. I’m proud to say I went to Keiser University, if for no other reason, because of my personal and professional development my instructors brought me.”

Jane Krolewski
Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate

“The Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Keiser University is an excellent program managed by a group of dynamic and dedicated professional educators. During my time at Keiser University, there was never a moment when I felt alone or lost. The support and guidance of my instructors were instrumental in accomplishing my professional goals and certification.”

Kiefer Suau
Software Engineering Graduate

“The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology.”

Jada Vidal
Culinary Arts Graduate

“Keiser was one of the best choices I made for culinary school but you must put in the time, show up, and listen to your chefs.“

Heather S
Keiser University Criminal Justice Graduate

Once I graduated, I found a job right out of college within my degree. I now proudly work for the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.

Wayne W.
Keiser University Criminal Justice graduate

When I came to Keiser University, I had no idea what I was capable of doing. I knew if I made good grades and worked hard, it would look good on my resume. It would also show my girls how important an education was. So, I worked hard. KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program…I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

Jason Liska
Keiser Graduate and Lake County Fire Fighter and Paramedic

Liska said he chose the Keiser University Fire Science program because of the professors’ real-life experiences in the field and the convenience of the one-class-at-a-time and one-class-per-month schedule. “You’ve got to find a way to balance things and Keiser was very beneficial in providing me that balance.”

Desiree James
Keiser University Diagnostic Medical Sonography Graduate

I loved that Keiser University focused on one class per month. I feel I gained a lot from this because there were no distractions from other subjects in the same period of time. I found the information for each subject was better retained this way. In addition, my professors were always available for one-on-one help which is nearly unheard of in a large university or state college.

Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore – Golf Management graduate – Keiser University

My time at Keiser gave me hands-on experience teaching golf and great mentors to look up to.

Jason Loomis
Executive Director at Great River Golf Club.

“Huge gratitude towards Keiser University, you know, I was a golf enthusiast and wanted to get into the game. And it was a perfect school that opened its doors to me, let me in, and showed me the ropes. And their guidance and education, and not to mention mentorship, even after I graduated, has really propelled me into the professional I am today.”

Samuel Fernandes
Animation and Game Design student – Keiser University

I’m Samuel Fernandes of Keiser University. I’m currently enrolled as a student under the animation and game design bachelors and I enjoy with my whole heart right now. I came to Keiser because it welcomes people and it was very warm and inviting. It allowed me to create the world I want. Here at Keiser, if you want to create world environments, if you want to enlist in characters, the game design program here is perfect.

How to Apply

  1. Submit your online application.
  2. Speak with an admissions advisor.
  3. Provide transcripts or transfer credits.
  4. Enroll and choose your start date.

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Keiser University’s Pre-DPT Bridge program positions undergraduate degree seekers to meet bachelor’s degree requirements while completing prerequisite courses for Doctor of Physical Therapy programs. With flexible on-campus and hybrid options, the program accommodates working professionals, military veterans, career changers, and traditional students. Whether you’re beginning your journey toward becoming a licensed physical therapist or completing your undergraduate degree, Keiser provides the academic support and flexible scheduling needed to reach your goals in the physical therapy profession.

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Accredited University

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring your education meets rigorous academic standards.

Flexible Learning Options

Study on campus or online with a hybrid schedule at Florida locations. Choose one class at a time in a format that fits your schedule. Evening and weekend options become available for working professionals at select campuses.

Financial Services

We guide you through the financial aid process and provide assistance. Grants, scholarships, and financial aid are available for students who qualify to help manage the cost of your education.

Top Questions About Earning a Pre-DPT Bridge Degree

Can I complete this degree online at Keiser University?

Keiser University’s Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, Pre-DPT Bridge offers flexible on-campus and hybrid learning options for physical therapy students. Students receive the same quality instruction, support, and resources across all delivery methods.

Does this degree make me a physical therapist?

No. This bachelor’s degree program prepares you to apply to Doctor of Physical Therapy programs but does not provide clinical credentials or licensure to practice physical therapy. After successful completion of this undergraduate degree, you must apply to and complete an accredited DPT program through the application process, gain clinical experiences through clinical internships at clinical sites, then pass the National Physical Therapy Examination to become a licensed physical therapist eligible to treat patients and provide physical therapy services.

What DPT program prerequisites does this degree cover?

The Pre-DPT Bridge curriculum focuses on prerequisite courses commonly required by PT programs, including biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, psychology, and statistics. The specific courses you select within your interdisciplinary concentrations and electives can be tailored to meet the minimum GPA requirements and admissions process requirements of the DPT programs you plan to apply to.

Does Keiser guarantee admission to a DPT program after I graduate?

No. Keiser University makes no guarantee of acceptance in or admission to a Doctor of Physical Therapy program through the application process. Each DPT program sets its own admissions criteria, including minimum GPA requirements, clinical experiences or observation hours, letters of recommendation, and satisfactory completion of the Graduate Record Examination or other assessments. However, this degree program helps you meet the prerequisite requirements that most physical therapy programs require and prepares you for the rigors of a physical therapy curriculum.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.

How long does it take to complete this bachelor's degree?

The Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, Pre-DPT Bridge consists of 120 credit hours. Most physical therapy students complete the program in approximately 40 months, though completion time varies based on course load, transfer credits, and whether you study full-time or part-time.

What courses should I take as electives?

Physical therapy students should work closely with their academic advisor to select electives that fulfill prerequisite courses required by their target PT programs. Common clinical courses include anatomy, physiology, chemistry, physics, and kinesiology. The proposed coursework requires approval by the campus dean of academic affairs. Many physical therapy students also choose courses that build understanding of clinical management, patient education, and how physical therapists work with other health care professionals.

Can working professionals complete this program?

Absolutely. Keiser University designed this physical therapy degree pathway with flexible learning options specifically to accommodate working professionals in the health professions or other fields. With flexible learning formats and the ability to take one class at a time, you can earn your degree while maintaining your current employment and preparing for the admissions process to DPT programs.

Does financial aid apply to this program?

Students in this program may qualify for grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Military veterans may also qualify for education benefits. Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all available options and create a plan that fits your situation. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.

What makes this different from other pre-physical therapy programs?

This interdisciplinary approach allows physical therapy students to customize their coursework while ensuring successful completion of prerequisite courses needed for the admissions process. The program emphasizes clinical education principles, evidence based practice, and clinical reasoning alongside the required science courses. Students complete this academic program with a comprehensive understanding of both the physical therapy profession and related health professions.

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By clicking the "Submit" button, I authorize Keiser University to make or allow the placement of recurring marketing calls, emails, and texts to me at the phone number that I have provided, including through the use of automated technology or a prerecorded or artificial voice. I understand that I am not required to provide my phone number as a condition of purchasing any property, goods, or services. Privacy Policy