Overview
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Why Study Applied Physiology and Kinesiology: Concentration in Pre-Physical Therapy at PBA?
Prepare for a career in physical therapy through Palm Beach Atlantic University’s Applied Physiology and Kinesiology: Concentration in Pre-Physical Therapy. Students combine rigorous coursework in human movement, rehabilitation, and exercise science with hands-on laboratory experiences, internships, and clinical learning opportunities that prepare them for graduate study and careers in physical therapy and healthcare.
- Christ-Centered Education: Study health and human performance through a biblical worldview rooted in service and compassion.
- Hands-On Learning: Complete internships and practical experiences in rehabilitation, healthcare, and wellness settings.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Develop technical skills in PBA’s Health and Human Performance Lab using professional equipment.
- Professional Preparation: Build the academic foundation needed for graduate physical therapy programs and related healthcare careers.
What You'll Learn
Students in the Pre-Physical Therapy concentration learn to:
- Assess components of health-related fitness and human movement
- Apply principles of exercise science and rehabilitation
- Develop clinical and technical skills used in physical therapy settings
- Understand injury prevention, rehabilitation, and human performance
- Prepare for graduate study and professional careers in physical therapy
Program Details
The Applied Physiology and Kinesiology: Concentration in Pre-Physical Therapy program combines classroom instruction, laboratory experiences, internships, and research opportunities to prepare students for careers in physical therapy, rehabilitation, and human performance.
PBA offers a variety of courses that students can choose from within this program. Take a look at what you’ll be learning while working toward your degree.
Students can customize their academic experience through elective coursework, minors, and additional majors that align with their academic and career goals. Explore the opportunities available at PBA.
Students gain hands-on experience using the Health and Human Performance Lab, where they develop technical skills, conduct assessments, and work with professional-grade equipment used throughout the healthcare and rehabilitation professions.
Learn from dedicated faculty members who bring a combination of academic expertise, professional experience, and a commitment to student success. Through mentorship, hands-on learning opportunities, and personalized guidance, PBA professors help students develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to achieve their academic and career goals.
Students complete internship experiences that prepare them for careers in rehabilitation, healthcare, physical therapy, and human performance. Internship sites have included:
- Paley Advanced Orthopedic and Spine Institute
- Jupiter Medical Center
- National Training Center (Orlando Health)
- YMCA of West Palm Beach
- Building Up Sports Academy
- Kings Academy
- Forest Hill High School
- CrossFit Navigate
- Lake Worth Golf Course
- Vinceremoss
Students also have opportunities to participate in undergraduate research while gaining hands-on experience working with athletes, active individuals, and clinical populations.
Entry Requirements
- Completed application
- Official high school transcripts
- Additional admissions materials as required
Visit the Office of Admissions website for current application, scholarship, and financial aid deadlines.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the Applied Physiology and Kinesiology: Concentration in Pre-Physical Therapy program are prepared for graduate physical therapy programs and careers focused on rehabilitation, movement science, and healthcare. Graduates have continued their education at institutions including Florida Atlantic University, the University of South Florida, and Colorado State University.
Potential career paths include:
- Physical Therapist*
- Rehabilitation Specialist
- Exercise Physiologist
- Sports Rehabilitation Specialist
- Wellness Coordinator
- Healthcare Professional
- Fitness Professional
- Physical Therapy Assistant**
* Physical Therapist positions require completion of an accredited graduate physical therapy program and professional licensure.
** Physical Therapy Assistant requires a separate accredited PTA program.
Student Stories
Applied Physiology and Kinesiology students gain valuable experience through internships, research opportunities, and hands-on learning in professional health and wellness environments. These experiences help students develop the skills and confidence needed to pursue careers dedicated to improving the lives of others.
Isabella Knight: A Passion for Helping Others
Watch Isabella Knight share her story below. Through her experiences at PBA, Isabella discovered her passion for helping others through rehabilitation and healthcare. Her journey reflects the commitment to service, wellness, and professional growth that defines the Applied Physiology and Kinesiology program.
Financial Aid
PBA’s robust scholarship program awards over $3 million every year. Invest in your learning with major-specific scholarships and other financial aid opportunities, which are awarded to 97% of our undergraduate students. Explore the resources below to learn more about tuition, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities.
