Pre-Physical Therapy

Associate in Science
Transfer Degree
Cost
$11,126*

Start your journey to be a Physical Therapist

Encourage active lifestyles to improve and maintain mobility

As a physical therapist, you will examine patients and develop treatment plans. You will use techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function and prevent disability. Our transfer degree is a lower cost route to earning your bachelor’s degree.

From there, you can move closer to your goal of a professional career as a physical therapist. Consult an Academic Success Advisor to ensure the courses in your program fulfill the requirements of your desired college or university.

What can you do with an A.S. in Pre-Physical Therapy?

The Associate in Science (A.S.) degree in pre-physical therapy prepares you to transfer and complete a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology, exercise science or related fields. This then prepares you to apply for a doctoral program in physical therapy.

Highlights

  • Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

    Based on need and/or achievement. Explore ways to pay for college.

  • Transfer Degree

    Save on your first 2 years and transfer your credits to the 4-year school of your choice.

  • Program Length: 2 Years

    Full-time students finish in 2 years.

Career Outlook

View more careers

Need help?

Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) is your "go-to person" ready to help you get started at CLC.

Your CCN guides you through the admission process, helps you choose your academic program, enroll in classes and connect you with resources.

Talk to a CCN

Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more inclusive list of course options, see the college catalog.

Icon Key

  • Credit for prior learning available
  • Dual credit options available
  • Global citizenship
  • Online/Virtual options available

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    CLC 120

    CLC 120 College Success Seminar

    Class Description

    This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
         		2
    ENG 121

    ENG 121 English Composition I

    Class Description

    This course is designed to help students develop their competence in college-level writing and in the analysis of texts so they can enter the dialogue of the academic community. This course includes the analysis and practice of argument and the use of critical thinking to read, analyze, and produce college-level texts.
         		3
    KIN 271

    KIN 271 Exercise Physiology

    Class Description

    (Previously PED 271)This course will explore the study of human function as it relates to responses and adaptations resulting from physical activity and exercise. Systemic interactions and cellular changes during and after activity will be examined.
         		3
    BIO 161

    BIO 161 General Biology I

    Class Description

    This course introduces general biological principles of life processes common to all organisms. Topics covered include the nature of life, unifying themes underlying biology, chemical basis of life, cell structure and function, energetics, cell reproduction, concepts of genetics and inheritance patterns, molecular genetics, and biotechnology. This course is the first semester of a two semester sequence intended for biology majors and students seeking careers in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, occupational therapy, physical therapy, or veterinary medicine. NOTE: Knowledge of chemistry is helpful.
         		4
    MTH 145

    MTH 145 Calculus and Analytic Geometry I

    Class Description

    This course covers the calculus of algebraic and transcendental functions. Analytic geometry topics are limited to the line and circle. Calculus topics include limits, differentiation and integration of both algebraic and transcendental functions, including trigonometric functions, with applications. NOTE: A specific graphing calculator is required for this course. Contact the EMPS division office for details.
         		5
    • Course Code CLC 120
      Course Title

      CLC 120 College Success Seminar

      Class Description

      This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code ENG 121
      Course Title

      ENG 121 English Composition I

      Class Description

      This course is designed to help students develop their competence in college-level writing and in the analysis of texts so they can enter the dialogue of the academic community. This course includes the analysis and practice of argument and the use of critical thinking to read, analyze, and produce college-level texts.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code KIN 271
      Course Title

      KIN 271 Exercise Physiology

      Class Description

      (Previously PED 271)This course will explore the study of human function as it relates to responses and adaptations resulting from physical activity and exercise. Systemic interactions and cellular changes during and after activity will be examined.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code BIO 161
      Course Title

      BIO 161 General Biology I

      Class Description

      This course introduces general biological principles of life processes common to all organisms. Topics covered include the nature of life, unifying themes underlying biology, chemical basis of life, cell structure and function, energetics, cell reproduction, concepts of genetics and inheritance patterns, molecular genetics, and biotechnology. This course is the first semester of a two semester sequence intended for biology majors and students seeking careers in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, occupational therapy, physical therapy, or veterinary medicine. NOTE: Knowledge of chemistry is helpful.
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code MTH 145
      Course Title

      MTH 145 Calculus and Analytic Geometry I

      Class Description

      This course covers the calculus of algebraic and transcendental functions. Analytic geometry topics are limited to the line and circle. Calculus topics include limits, differentiation and integration of both algebraic and transcendental functions, including trigonometric functions, with applications. NOTE: A specific graphing calculator is required for this course. Contact the EMPS division office for details.
      Credits 5
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    ENG 122

    ENG 122 English Composition II

    Class Description

    This course furthers the work done in English Composition I by providing students more experience as academic writers, readers, researchers and critical thinkers. To help students construct their own meaning while engaging with the texts of others, they will develop the ability to collect, evaluate, and incorporate varied sources in thoughtfully-written analyses and arguments. Students' work should demonstrate the ability to position themselves within the context of academic and societal conversations using a variety of texts, which may include literature, arguments on various issues, news articles, films, advertisements, and websites.
         		3
    KIN 270

    KIN 270 Biomechanics and Kinesiology

    Class Description

    (Previously PED 270) This course will introduce students to the science of musculoskeletal human movement. Fundamental biomechanical principles and functional movement capabilities of each major joint will be examined.
         		3
    CHM 121

    CHM 121 General Chemistry I

    Class Description

    This course develops an analytical approach to solving chemical problems. The student is provided with principles that relate chemical structure, energy and reactivity and is introduced to the following topics: composition and properties of matter, nomenclature, stoichiometry, solutions, gas laws, thermochemistry, atomic structure and periodic trends, bonding, molecular geometries, and properties of liquids, solids and gases. This course is the first semester of a two semester sequence intended for chemistry majors, science majors, engineering majors, and students seeking careers in pre-professional health related fields.
         		5
    BIO 244

    BIO 244 Anatomy and Physiology I

    Class Description

    This course is the first of a two semester Anatomy and Physiology sequence that begins with an introduction to homeostasis and feedback loops. The structure and function of the following body systems will be explored: the integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system and nervous system. Within each body system, students learn the normal anatomy and physiology of the system as well as some diseases associated with each system. Human skeletons, human models, preserved sheep organs, and preserved cats are used in labs as representatives of human anatomy.
         		4
    • Course Code ENG 122
      Course Title

      ENG 122 English Composition II

      Class Description

      This course furthers the work done in English Composition I by providing students more experience as academic writers, readers, researchers and critical thinkers. To help students construct their own meaning while engaging with the texts of others, they will develop the ability to collect, evaluate, and incorporate varied sources in thoughtfully-written analyses and arguments. Students' work should demonstrate the ability to position themselves within the context of academic and societal conversations using a variety of texts, which may include literature, arguments on various issues, news articles, films, advertisements, and websites.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code KIN 270
      Course Title

      KIN 270 Biomechanics and Kinesiology

      Class Description

      (Previously PED 270) This course will introduce students to the science of musculoskeletal human movement. Fundamental biomechanical principles and functional movement capabilities of each major joint will be examined.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code CHM 121
      Course Title

      CHM 121 General Chemistry I

      Class Description

      This course develops an analytical approach to solving chemical problems. The student is provided with principles that relate chemical structure, energy and reactivity and is introduced to the following topics: composition and properties of matter, nomenclature, stoichiometry, solutions, gas laws, thermochemistry, atomic structure and periodic trends, bonding, molecular geometries, and properties of liquids, solids and gases. This course is the first semester of a two semester sequence intended for chemistry majors, science majors, engineering majors, and students seeking careers in pre-professional health related fields.
      Credits 5
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code BIO 244
      Course Title

      BIO 244 Anatomy and Physiology I

      Class Description

      This course is the first of a two semester Anatomy and Physiology sequence that begins with an introduction to homeostasis and feedback loops. The structure and function of the following body systems will be explored: the integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system and nervous system. Within each body system, students learn the normal anatomy and physiology of the system as well as some diseases associated with each system. Human skeletons, human models, preserved sheep organs, and preserved cats are used in labs as representatives of human anatomy.
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    PSY 121

    PSY 121 Introduction to Psychology

    Class Description

    This course presents the basic concepts and theoretical perspectives for understanding psychology with an emphasis on cultural competence and social justice. It encompasses factors affecting human behavior and mental processes and includes, but is not limited to, the history of psychology, research methodology, the brain and behavior, learning, memory, cognition, language, intelligence, development, personality, abnormal psychology, therapy and social psychology.
         		3
    HUM 127

    HUM 127 Critical Thinking

    Class Description

    This course is an introduction to critical thinking skills (i.e., informal logic), including the following: problem solving, diagramming and evaluating arguments, constructing sound reasoning skills and habits, detecting fallacies, and reasoning from a variety of disciplines such as science, business, law, and the arts.
         		3
    PHY 121

    PHY 121 General Physics I

    Class Description

    This it the first course in a two semester sequence designed for students in arts and sciences. Basic concepts of mechanics, waves and sound are developed through lectures, demonstrations and laboratory experience. Basic knowledge of algebra and geometry assumed.
         		5
    MTH 222

    MTH 222 Business Statistics

    Class Description

    This course focuses on the application of statistical methods to the solution of real-life business problems. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to apply appropriate statistical techniques needed to collect, summarize, and interpret data in order to answer business-related questions and communicate informed business decisions. In addition, students will be able to identify and implement appropriate statistical tests using past business data in order to test claims about current conditions and estimate unknown parameters. Emphasis is on interpretation and evaluation of statistical results, and all computations are carried out using appropriate technology, such as graphing calculators with a statistical package, spreadsheet programs (e.g. Excel), or statistical computing software.Topics include: data collection processes (sampling methods, observational studies, experimental design); descriptive methods using quantitative and qualitative data; basic probability theory and probability distributions (binomial, uniform, exponential and normal distributions); estimation using confidence intervals; hypothesis tests of means and proportions (both one- sample and two-sample); linear regression and correlation; chi square tests; and one-factor analysis of variance. Notes: Students may not receive credit towards a degree for both MTH 222 and MTH 142. A specific graphing calculator is required for this course. Contact the EMPS Division office for details.Prerequisites: MTH 122 (D or better) or MTH 108 (C or better)?OR?appropriate score on CLC Math Placement Test, Math ACT, or Math SATIAI: M1 902, BUS 901
         		4
    • Course Code PSY 121
      Course Title

      PSY 121 Introduction to Psychology

      Class Description

      This course presents the basic concepts and theoretical perspectives for understanding psychology with an emphasis on cultural competence and social justice. It encompasses factors affecting human behavior and mental processes and includes, but is not limited to, the history of psychology, research methodology, the brain and behavior, learning, memory, cognition, language, intelligence, development, personality, abnormal psychology, therapy and social psychology.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HUM 127
      Course Title

      HUM 127 Critical Thinking

      Class Description

      This course is an introduction to critical thinking skills (i.e., informal logic), including the following: problem solving, diagramming and evaluating arguments, constructing sound reasoning skills and habits, detecting fallacies, and reasoning from a variety of disciplines such as science, business, law, and the arts.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code PHY 121
      Course Title

      PHY 121 General Physics I

      Class Description

      This it the first course in a two semester sequence designed for students in arts and sciences. Basic concepts of mechanics, waves and sound are developed through lectures, demonstrations and laboratory experience. Basic knowledge of algebra and geometry assumed.
      Credits 5
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code MTH 222
      Course Title

      MTH 222 Business Statistics

      Class Description

      This course focuses on the application of statistical methods to the solution of real-life business problems. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to apply appropriate statistical techniques needed to collect, summarize, and interpret data in order to answer business-related questions and communicate informed business decisions. In addition, students will be able to identify and implement appropriate statistical tests using past business data in order to test claims about current conditions and estimate unknown parameters. Emphasis is on interpretation and evaluation of statistical results, and all computations are carried out using appropriate technology, such as graphing calculators with a statistical package, spreadsheet programs (e.g. Excel), or statistical computing software.Topics include: data collection processes (sampling methods, observational studies, experimental design); descriptive methods using quantitative and qualitative data; basic probability theory and probability distributions (binomial, uniform, exponential and normal distributions); estimation using confidence intervals; hypothesis tests of means and proportions (both one- sample and two-sample); linear regression and correlation; chi square tests; and one-factor analysis of variance. Notes: Students may not receive credit towards a degree for both MTH 222 and MTH 142. A specific graphing calculator is required for this course. Contact the EMPS Division office for details.Prerequisites: MTH 122 (D or better) or MTH 108 (C or better)?OR?appropriate score on CLC Math Placement Test, Math ACT, or Math SATIAI: M1 902, BUS 901
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    CMM 121

    CMM 121 Fundamentals of Speech

    Class Description

    For students interested in improving their oral communication competency. This course combines a theoretical basis with practical verbal and nonverbal skills to enhance public speaking effectiveness. Students learn how to develop, research, organize, adapt, deliver and critique messages.
         		3
    HUM 126

    HUM 126 Introduction to the Performing Arts

    Class Description

    This course provides an introduction to current performing arts trends, inclusive of cultures, traditions and populations that are typically underrepresented in the study of performing arts. Theatre, music, opera, and dance will all be examined from the point of view of the educated audience member. Students will learn to better understand and evaluate the performing arts. Terminology, practitioners, organization, and a brief history of each discipline will be examined. This will be accomplished through lectures, videos, and by attending actual performances.
         		3
    KIN 243

    KIN 243 Theory and Practice of Fitness

    Class Description

    (Previously PED 243) This course introduces students to basic scientific and applied concepts of fitness as well as provides regularly scheduled opportunities to develop their health and functional fitness capacities.
         		2
    BIO 245

    BIO 245 Anatomy and Physiology II

    Class Description

    This course is a continuation of BIO 244. It builds on the general information about homeostasis and the specific body systems covered in BIO 244. Within each body system, students learn the normal anatomy and physiology of the system as well as some diseases associated with each system. This course begins with the endocrine system, followed by the cardiovascular system, lymphatic and immune systems, respiratory system, digestive system (including metabolism), urinary system (including fluid and electrolyte regulation), and the reproductive system. Human skeletons, human models, preserved sheep organs, and preserved cats are used in labs as representatives of human anatomy.
         		4
    ANT 121

    ANT 121 Introduction to Anthropology

    Class Description

    This course is an introduction to the nature of humans and their development and relationship to the physical, social, and cultural environments both past and present. This course surveys the major fields of anthropology: physical anthropology, ethnology, linguistics, and archaeology, with an emphasis on non-Western cultures and underrepresented groups.
         		3
    • Course Code CMM 121
      Course Title

      CMM 121 Fundamentals of Speech

      Class Description

      For students interested in improving their oral communication competency. This course combines a theoretical basis with practical verbal and nonverbal skills to enhance public speaking effectiveness. Students learn how to develop, research, organize, adapt, deliver and critique messages.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HUM 126
      Course Title

      HUM 126 Introduction to the Performing Arts

      Class Description

      This course provides an introduction to current performing arts trends, inclusive of cultures, traditions and populations that are typically underrepresented in the study of performing arts. Theatre, music, opera, and dance will all be examined from the point of view of the educated audience member. Students will learn to better understand and evaluate the performing arts. Terminology, practitioners, organization, and a brief history of each discipline will be examined. This will be accomplished through lectures, videos, and by attending actual performances.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code KIN 243
      Course Title

      KIN 243 Theory and Practice of Fitness

      Class Description

      (Previously PED 243) This course introduces students to basic scientific and applied concepts of fitness as well as provides regularly scheduled opportunities to develop their health and functional fitness capacities.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code BIO 245
      Course Title

      BIO 245 Anatomy and Physiology II

      Class Description

      This course is a continuation of BIO 244. It builds on the general information about homeostasis and the specific body systems covered in BIO 244. Within each body system, students learn the normal anatomy and physiology of the system as well as some diseases associated with each system. This course begins with the endocrine system, followed by the cardiovascular system, lymphatic and immune systems, respiratory system, digestive system (including metabolism), urinary system (including fluid and electrolyte regulation), and the reproductive system. Human skeletons, human models, preserved sheep organs, and preserved cats are used in labs as representatives of human anatomy.
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code ANT 121
      Course Title

      ANT 121 Introduction to Anthropology

      Class Description

      This course is an introduction to the nature of humans and their development and relationship to the physical, social, and cultural environments both past and present. This course surveys the major fields of anthropology: physical anthropology, ethnology, linguistics, and archaeology, with an emphasis on non-Western cultures and underrepresented groups.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights

Total Credit Hours

62

Learn how CLC helps you transfer

Start at CLC and continue with a 4-year school to earn your bachelor's degree. CLC has partnerships with many colleges and universities, covering a wide range of programs.

Our Guaranteed Transfer Partnerships (GTAs) with a select number of schools guarantee admission to students who meet specific criteria.


Female student taking notes in class

Pre-Physical Therapy at CLC

Get the bigger picture

Learn about courses, faculty, related programs and more.

View the Pre-Physical Therapy program overview

Frequently asked questions

*Cost includes tuition and other fees, including books and materials before financial aid is applied, such as grants, loans or scholarships. There are many opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.

Take the next step...

Be debt-free at CLC

CLC has some of the lowest tuition around. Financial aid and scholarships are available—even for working adults.

Paying for college

Explore careers

Discover majors and career paths to complement and extend your intuitive interests and abilities.

Explore Career Coach

Request info

Your education is a big investment of your time, money and attention. Gather all the info you need.

Send me info

Get started

Start your application today—it’s free and easy to complete. When you’re ready, we’re ready to help you take the next step.

Start today!
1/4