Is Physics a Must for Physical Therapy Grad Programs?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the necessity of physics coursework for admission into graduate programs in Physical Therapy, particularly focusing on the mathematical components involved in physics and the concerns of a participant regarding their mathematical abilities.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses anxiety about the physics requirement due to a strong dislike for mathematics and past struggles with algebra.
  • Another participant notes that a basic understanding of derivatives, integrals, and vectors is generally necessary for physics classes.
  • It is suggested that some institutions offer introductory physics courses that only require algebra and trigonometry.
  • A later reply indicates that the participant may be more comfortable with physics if it applies mathematical concepts through formulas rather than focusing solely on abstract mathematics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the necessity or difficulty of physics for the graduate program, with differing opinions on the mathematical prerequisites and the nature of physics courses available.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention varying levels of physics courses and their mathematical requirements, but do not clarify specific course offerings or institutional policies.

chancer
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I recently found out that for a graduate program I want to get into (Physical Therpay) that a sequence in physics is required. This worries me because there is no other subject that I abhor more than mathmatics. I can speak 3 languages fluently, but give me a simple math problem and I want to pull my hair out.
For someone like me who struggled through college algebra, is this subject something i should even attempt to take.

THANKS.
 
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do you have any info on what physics classes you need to take? You will need some grasp of derivatives and integrals for just about every physics class though and some very basic grasp on vectors.

But a good physics professors should explain the relevant mathematical concepts in a entry level class.
 
most schools also offer a very basic physics course that only makes use of algebra and trigonometry, you could ask the department about that.
 
Thanks for your response.

The criteria just stated 8 semester hours of physics, one of which has a lab. I think if physics incorporates math, but actually applies it in formulas I may be ok. It is just when everything is entirely math...my brain short circuits.
 

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