DPT Admissions

All potential applicants are encouraged to learn as much as possible about the NGCSU program before applying.  Because all PT program are unique in their own way and make decisions concerning "good fit" of applicants during the application and/or interview process, applicants should similarly be observant of and inquire about programs they plan to apply to in order to make their own decisions about "good fit".  This process should start before they apply.  IN that regard, the NGCSU Department of Physical Therapy conducts a Pre-application Advisement process for potential applicants enrolled at NGCSU or other institutions.   The advisement can be done in person by appointment, by telephone or by email.  The intent is to allow an interested individuals to determine eligibility and begin the discovery process regarding "good fit".  We are happy to entertain inquiries or visits to our campus.  To inquire about any specifics of the program or to arrange visits, please contact by letter, telephone, or email:
                                             Mrs. Lynn Youngblood
                                             PT Admissions Coordinator
                                             Department of Physical Therapy
                                             North Georgia College & State University
                                             Dahlonega, Georgia 30597
                                             706/864-1863
                                             lyoungblood@ngcsu.edu
 

PT Admissions

Academic Requirements

The minimum grade point average (GPA) required for admission is ≥ 2.8 overall (or 3.4 for the last 40 semester hours). The required pre-requisite GPA (e.g., biology, chemistry, physics, and statistics) must be ≥ 2.75.  A Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score of 1,000 for combined verbal and quantitative sections is required with a minimum score of 400 for each section. Applicants who achieve a GRE combined score of 900 - 1000 will be considered for provisional admission if all other aspects of the application meet the stated requirements.

 Required Prerequisite Courses

Effective for Summer 2008 admissions, prerequisites include completion of a baccalaureate degree from any accredited college and the following prerequisite courses:

Full academic year (two courses) of the following with labs:

      - General chemistry (majors)
      - General physics (does not need to be calculus based)
      - General biology (for majors), OR, human anatomy and physiology.  If the anatomy course does not include physiology, then a separate human physiology course should be taken (mammalian or vertebrate physiology also accepted).

 Two courses in social sciences (psychology, sociology). We strongly recommend abnormal psychology and human growth and development, although General Psychology / General Sociology will satisfy the requirement.
 
One course each:
        - One additional Biology course
        - Elementary Statistics

Recommended Prerequisite Courses
Recommended courses (not required) may be selected from:
        - Exercise physiology, human growth and development, applied kinesiology, abnormal psychology, biomechanics, exercise prescription/fitness training, and additional behavioral sciences and biological sciences.

 Students must earn a C or higher in all required pre-requisite courses.  All prerequisites must be completed before the program begins each summer semester in late May.

 Special Considerations

The successful candidate will generally have a high Prerequisite Course GPA (biology, chemistry, physics, statistics); documented leadership abilities; an abundance of courses above the 300 level; evidence of embracing cultural diversity; life and self-directed work experiences compatible with taking responsibility for one's own behavior and education; a bachelor's degree by the time of matriculation; and demonstrated commitment to learning to be a skilled generalist with a focus on rural practice.

Application and Interview

 Applications are available on line at

http://www.ngcsu.edu/enrollment/Graduate/downloadable_forms.shtml

and must be submitted by November 14 each year for admission for the following summer semester.  Admission interviews are conducted in October (Early Decision interview process) and in January (regular interview process).  Those who wish to participate in the Early Decision process should have their completed applications submitted no later than the first week of August, present credentials (GPAs, GREs) clearly a "cut above" the minimum requirements, and be committed to attending NGCSU if offered a place in the program.  Three letters of recommendation are required for admission, at least once of which must be from a practicing physical therapist.  The recommendation forms are available online with the Application for admission (as above).