Barry PhilipsColorado is an attractive destination for students who want to pursue a career in physical therapy. The state offers several respected universities and health-science institutions with programs that can prepare students for careers as physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and other rehabilitation professionals.
If you are searching for the best physical therapy schools in Colorado, it is important to understand that becoming a licensed physical therapist generally requires a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, followed by the required licensing examination and state licensure. Admission requirements vary considerably from one institution to another.
Below is a guide to notable schools and institutions in Colorado associated with physical therapy education, including DPT programs and schools offering related physical therapist assistant education.
Top 20 Physical Therapy Schools in Colorado
1. University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is one of the most prominent destinations for students interested in physical therapy education in Colorado.
Its physical therapy program is associated with the university’s broader health-sciences environment, giving students opportunities to learn alongside professionals from other healthcare disciplines.
Typical requirements include:
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent academic preparation
- Required prerequisite coursework
- Competitive academic performance
- Patient-care or physical therapy-related experience
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Interview
- Completion of clinical education requirements
The program is particularly attractive to students who want exposure to a major academic medical environment.
2. Regis University
Regis University in Denver is another important option for students researching physical therapy education in Colorado.
The university has a strong healthcare education tradition and offers graduate-level preparation for students interested in physical therapy.
Applicants should expect prerequisites in areas such as biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy and physiology.
Common requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Prerequisite courses
- Minimum required grades
- Application materials
- Recommendations
- Personal statement
- Interview
- Clinical or volunteer experience
Students may benefit from Regis University’s emphasis on professional development and healthcare service.
3. University of Colorado Colorado Springs
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs is another Colorado institution worth considering when researching physical therapy and rehabilitation education.
Students interested in pursuing physical therapy should carefully examine the university’s current program offerings and prerequisite pathways.
Potential admission requirements include:
- Undergraduate academic preparation
- Biology and chemistry coursework
- Anatomy and physiology
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Strong GPA
- Application materials
- Relevant healthcare experience
UCCS can also provide a useful undergraduate foundation for students planning to apply to DPT programs.
4. Colorado State University
Colorado State University in Fort Collins is a major public research university with extensive health, science and exercise-related academic opportunities.
Although students should distinguish between undergraduate preparation and a professional DPT program, CSU can be an excellent place to complete coursework that prepares applicants for physical therapy school.
Students may need:
- Strong undergraduate GPA
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Anatomy and physiology
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Clinical observation experience
Students should verify the current professional-program options and prerequisites before applying.
5. Metropolitan State University of Denver
Metropolitan State University of Denver is a practical option for students seeking undergraduate preparation for a future physical therapy career.
Its location in Denver also places students within a large healthcare ecosystem where they may find opportunities for volunteering, observation and related experience.
Typical preparation includes:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Science prerequisites
- Anatomy and physiology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Healthcare-related experience
Students planning to become physical therapists can use an MSU Denver education as a foundation for subsequent DPT applications.
6. University of Denver
The University of Denver is a private university offering numerous programs that can help students build a strong academic foundation for health-profession careers.
Prospective physical therapists can consider relevant undergraduate coursework while preparing to meet DPT prerequisites.
Requirements may include:
- Undergraduate degree
- Required science courses
- Strong academic record
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Observation experience
- DPT application requirements
Students should carefully compare their undergraduate curriculum with the prerequisites of their preferred DPT programs.
7. University of Northern Colorado
The University of Northern Colorado in Greeley is another institution that students interested in rehabilitation and health professions may consider.
UNC offers academic programs that can provide preparation for students planning to pursue advanced healthcare education.
Potential preparation requirements include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Undergraduate degree
Students should confirm whether their selected program is designed specifically for DPT preparation or another rehabilitation profession.
8. Colorado Mesa University
Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction provides students with opportunities to study health-related and exercise-oriented subjects.
Students interested in physical therapy can use appropriate undergraduate coursework to prepare for applications to professional DPT programs.
Important requirements may include:
- Completion of prerequisite science courses
- Good undergraduate GPA
- Anatomy and physiology
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- Relevant experience
The university can be particularly appealing to students who prefer studying outside the Denver metropolitan area.
9. Adams State University
Adams State University in Alamosa offers health and exercise-related educational opportunities and can serve as an undergraduate preparation option for students interested in physical therapy.
Students should work closely with academic advisers to ensure their course selections satisfy the requirements of future DPT programs.
Common prerequisites include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Psychology
- Statistics
Additional requirements depend on the DPT school to which the student eventually applies.
10. Western Colorado University
Western Colorado University is another Colorado institution worth considering for students interested in exercise science and healthcare careers.
Its academic environment can help students develop foundational knowledge in human movement, exercise and related sciences.
Students preparing for DPT programs should focus on:
- Strong science grades
- Anatomy and physiology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Biology
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Clinical observation
A bachelor’s degree from a university such as Western Colorado can be followed by professional DPT education.
11. Fort Lewis College
Fort Lewis College in Durango provides undergraduate educational opportunities relevant to students interested in health, exercise and human performance.
Students interested in physical therapy should select courses that meet the prerequisite requirements of their intended DPT programs.
Typical preparation includes:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Strong overall GPA
The school may appeal to students seeking a smaller college environment.
12. Colorado College
Colorado College in Colorado Springs is a liberal arts institution where students can develop strong foundations in science and other academic disciplines.
Students intending to become physical therapists can complete prerequisite courses before applying to DPT programs.
Important preparation areas include:
- Biological sciences
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Anatomy and physiology
- Healthcare exposure
Because DPT prerequisites vary, students should plan their undergraduate curriculum carefully.
13. University of Colorado Denver
The University of Colorado Denver provides students with access to a wide range of health and science-related academic resources.
For students pursuing physical therapy, relevant undergraduate coursework can provide preparation for competitive DPT applications.
Potential requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Prerequisite science courses
- Strong GPA
- Relevant experience
- Recommendations
- Personal statement
Students should distinguish between completing prerequisites at CU Denver and admission to a professional physical therapy program.
14. Colorado School of Mines
Colorado School of Mines is primarily known for engineering, science and technology education, but its rigorous scientific curriculum can be useful for students interested in healthcare pathways that require strong science preparation.
Students considering physical therapy should verify that their selected courses satisfy the prerequisites of their intended DPT programs.
Useful preparation may include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Statistics
- Psychology
- Anatomy and physiology
15. University of Colorado Boulder
The University of Colorado Boulder offers extensive undergraduate opportunities in biological sciences, integrative physiology and related fields.
These programs can be useful for students preparing for professional healthcare programs, including physical therapy.
Students should focus on:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Strong academic performance
- Healthcare experience
CU Boulder can be a strong choice for students who want a research-oriented undergraduate environment.
16. Aims Community College
Aims Community College offers health-related educational pathways and can be considered by students exploring physical therapist assistant education and other allied-health careers.
Students should distinguish between becoming a physical therapist and becoming a physical therapist assistant (PTA).
A PTA generally follows a different educational pathway and licensing process than a DPT.
Typical PTA preparation can include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Prerequisite courses
- Anatomy and physiology
- Medical terminology
- Background screening
- Clinical education
17. Pikes Peak State College
Pikes Peak State College is another Colorado institution associated with allied-health education.
Students interested in becoming PTAs can investigate available rehabilitation-related programs and admission requirements.
Requirements may include:
- High school completion
- Prerequisite coursework
- Anatomy and physiology
- Basic science courses
- Minimum GPA
- Health screening
- Clinical requirements
Students seeking a DPT should instead use such coursework as preparation for applying to graduate physical therapy programs.
18. Community College of Denver
Community College of Denver provides affordable educational pathways that may help students complete prerequisite coursework before pursuing advanced healthcare education.
Students planning to attend DPT school can use community-college courses strategically, provided their target DPT programs accept those credits.
Students should consider:
- Transferability of credits
- Required science courses
- GPA requirements
- Laboratory requirements
- Anatomy and physiology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Checking DPT-specific prerequisites early can prevent problems when applying later.
19. Front Range Community College
Front Range Community College is another Colorado institution that can be considered by students seeking foundational science and healthcare education.
Students can investigate available allied-health programs and coursework relevant to physical therapy preparation.
Common preparation areas include:
- Biology
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Chemistry
- Psychology
- Statistics
Students should confirm whether specific courses fulfill prerequisites for their preferred DPT program.
20. Red Rocks Community College
Red Rocks Community College provides educational opportunities in healthcare and related fields.
For students interested in physical therapy, the college can potentially serve as an affordable starting point for prerequisite coursework or allied-health education.
Potential requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Required prerequisite classes
- Minimum grades
- Health documentation
- Background screening for clinical programs
Students intending to become licensed physical therapists should ultimately plan for an accredited DPT program.
Full List
| Rank | School | City | Physical Therapy Relevance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus | Aurora | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) |
| 2 | Regis University | Denver | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) |
| 3 | University of Colorado Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs | CU DPT hybrid pathway/health sciences |
| 4 | University of Colorado Boulder | Boulder | Pre-physical therapy/science preparation |
| 5 | Colorado State University | Fort Collins | Exercise/health sciences and pre-PT preparation |
| 6 | University of Northern Colorado | Greeley | Exercise/health sciences and pre-PT preparation |
| 7 | Metropolitan State University of Denver | Denver | Health/exercise science and pre-PT preparation |
| 8 | University of Colorado Denver | Denver | Health/science and pre-PT preparation |
| 9 | Colorado Mesa University | Grand Junction | Exercise/health sciences and pre-PT preparation |
| 10 | University of Denver | Denver | Pre-health/science preparation |
| 11 | Adams State University | Alamosa | Exercise/health sciences preparation |
| 12 | Western Colorado University | Gunnison | Exercise/sport science preparation |
| 13 | Fort Lewis College | Durango | Health/science preparation |
| 14 | Colorado College | Colorado Springs | Pre-health/science preparation |
| 15 | Colorado School of Mines | Golden | Science preparation for health professions |
| 16 | Aims Community College | Greeley | Allied health/PTA preparation |
| 17 | Pikes Peak State College | Colorado Springs | Allied health/PTA pathway |
| 18 | Community College of Denver | Denver | Pre-health/prerequisite preparation |
| 19 | Front Range Community College | Westminster | Health sciences/prerequisite preparation |
| 20 | Red Rocks Community College | Lakewood | Allied health preparation |
| 21 | Arapahoe Community College | Littleton | Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) education |
| 22 | Community College of Aurora | Aurora | Health sciences/prerequisite preparation |
| 23 | Pueblo Community College | Pueblo | Allied health/health sciences |
| 24 | Trinidad State College | Trinidad | Health sciences preparation |
| 25 | Lamar Community College | Lamar | Health/science preparation |
| 26 | Otero College | La Junta | Health sciences preparation |
| 27 | Morgan Community College | Fort Morgan | Health sciences preparation |
| 28 | Northeastern Junior College | Sterling | Health/science preparation |
| 29 | Colorado Northwestern Community College | Rangely | Health sciences preparation |
| 30 | Colorado Mountain College | Glenwood Springs | Health/exercise-related preparation |
| 31 | Community College of Denver – Auraria Campus | Denver | Pre-health coursework |
| 32 | Emily Griffith Technical College | Denver | Healthcare/allied-health preparation |
| 33 | Pickens Technical College | Aurora | Allied-health education |
| 34 | Pima Medical Institute – Denver | Denver | Allied-health/rehabilitation-related education |
| 35 | Pima Medical Institute – Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs | Allied-health education |
| 36 | National American University – Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs | Health-related education |
| 37 | Colorado Christian University | Lakewood | Exercise/health-related preparation |
| 38 | University of the Rockies | Denver | Health-related academic background |
| 39 | Nazarene Bible College | Colorado Springs | Health-related undergraduate preparation |
| 40 | Johnson & Wales University – Denver | Denver | Health/wellness-related preparation |
| 41 | Naropa University | Boulder | Health/wellness-related preparation |
| 42 | Metropolitan State University – Health Institute | Denver | Health and human-performance preparation |
| 43 | Colorado State University Pueblo | Pueblo | Exercise science/health preparation |
| 44 | University of Colorado Anschutz – School of Medicine | Aurora | Physical therapy/rehabilitation sciences |
| 45 | Regis University – School of Rehabilitative and Health Sciences | Denver | DPT and rehabilitation education |
| 46 | CU Anschutz Physical Therapy Program | Aurora | Residential and Hybrid DPT |
| 47 | Regis University Health and Exercise Science | Denver | Bachelor’s-to-DPT preparation |
| 48 | CU Boulder Integrative Physiology | Boulder | Pre-PT/science preparation |
| 49 | Colorado State University Health and Exercise Science | Fort Collins | Pre-PT preparation |
| 50 | University of Northern Colorado Kinesiology/Exercise Science | Greeley | Pre-PT preparation |
DPT vs. Physical Therapist Assistant Programs
One of the most important distinctions prospective students should understand is the difference between a physical therapist and a physical therapist assistant.
A physical therapist normally completes a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and must meet professional licensing requirements.
A physical therapist assistant generally completes an accredited associate-level PTA program and works under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist.
Therefore, if your goal is to become a licensed physical therapist in Colorado, you should focus primarily on DPT programs rather than PTA programs.
How to Choose the Best Physical Therapy School in Colorado
Accreditation
Accreditation is one of the most important factors to investigate. Students pursuing a DPT should verify that the professional program has appropriate accreditation.
Admission Requirements
Compare prerequisite courses, GPA requirements, observation hours, recommendation requirements, interviews and application deadlines.
Clinical Education
Physical therapy is highly practical. Look for programs offering substantial clinical education and exposure to different patient populations.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Compare tuition, fees, housing and other expenses. Students should investigate scholarships, grants, assistantships and other financial-aid opportunities.
Location
Colorado offers very different environments, from Denver and Colorado Springs to smaller communities such as Alamosa and Grand Junction. Consider transportation, living costs and access to clinical facilities.
Graduation and Licensing Preparation
A strong program should adequately prepare students for professional practice and the licensing examination.
Physical Therapy School Admission Tips
Complete Prerequisites Early
Create a spreadsheet listing every prerequisite required by your target schools. This helps prevent missing courses.
Maintain a Competitive GPA
Science courses are particularly important. Strong grades in anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry and physics can strengthen an application.
Gain Clinical Experience
Volunteer, shadow or work in appropriate healthcare environments where you can learn more about physical therapy.
Build Strong Relationships With Professors
Good academic relationships can help when you need recommendation letters.
Prepare a Strong Personal Statement
Explain why you want to become a physical therapist, what experiences influenced your decision and what you hope to contribute to the profession.
Apply to Multiple Programs
DPT admission can be competitive. Applying to several suitable programs can improve your chances of admission.
Physical Therapy Career Opportunities in Colorado
Graduates can potentially work in a wide range of settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Rehabilitation centers
- Outpatient clinics
- Sports medicine facilities
- Nursing facilities
- Pediatric centers
- Schools
- Home healthcare
- Orthopedic clinics
- Neurological rehabilitation centers
- Private practices
Physical therapists may also specialize in areas such as orthopedics, sports, pediatrics, geriatrics, neurology, cardiovascular rehabilitation and women’s health.
Comparison Table: Physical Therapy Schools in Colorado
| School | Location | Main Relevance | Typical Preparation |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Colorado Anschutz | Aurora | DPT/health sciences | Bachelor’s + prerequisites |
| Regis University | Denver | Physical therapy/healthcare | Degree + prerequisites |
| UCCS | Colorado Springs | Health sciences/preparation | Science prerequisites |
| Colorado State University | Fort Collins | Health/exercise preparation | Bachelor’s + prerequisites |
| MSU Denver | Denver | Undergraduate preparation | Science coursework |
| University of Denver | Denver | Pre-health preparation | Bachelor’s + prerequisites |
| University of Northern Colorado | Greeley | Health-related preparation | Science coursework |
| Colorado Mesa University | Grand Junction | Health/exercise preparation | Prerequisites |
| Adams State University | Alamosa | Health/exercise preparation | Science prerequisites |
| Western Colorado University | Gunnison | Exercise/health preparation | Science coursework |
| Fort Lewis College | Durango | Health preparation | Prerequisites |
| Colorado College | Colorado Springs | Pre-health preparation | Science prerequisites |
| CU Denver | Denver | Health/science preparation | Bachelor’s + prerequisites |
| Colorado School of Mines | Golden | Science preparation | Strong science coursework |
| CU Boulder | Boulder | Integrative physiology/pre-health | Science prerequisites |
| Aims Community College | Greeley | PTA/allied health | PTA prerequisites |
| Pikes Peak State College | Colorado Springs | Allied health/PTA | Program prerequisites |
| Community College of Denver | Denver | Prerequisite preparation | Transferable coursework |
| Front Range Community College | Westminster/Colorado locations | Allied health/preparation | Science prerequisites |
| Red Rocks Community College | Lakewood | Allied health preparation | Program prerequisites |
Related
Conclusion
Choosing among the best physical therapy schools in Colorado requires more than simply looking at rankings. Prospective students should consider accreditation, curriculum, admission requirements, clinical education, tuition, location and preparation for professional licensure.
For students whose ultimate goal is to become a licensed physical therapist, the most important step is to identify an appropriate Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) pathway and complete all required prerequisites.
Students who are not yet ready for graduate-level education can begin with an undergraduate program in biology, exercise science, kinesiology, integrative physiology or another relevant field. Community colleges can also provide affordable prerequisite coursework, provided the credits meet the requirements of the student’s intended DPT programs.
With careful planning, strong academic performance and meaningful healthcare experience, students can build a competitive application and pursue a rewarding career helping patients regain mobility, independence and quality of life.