Barry PhilipsIf you are interested in a career helping people recover from injuries, manage pain, improve mobility, and regain independence, studying physical therapy can be an excellent choice. Atlanta, Georgia, has several universities and health-science institutions offering programs that can prepare students for careers in physical therapy and related rehabilitation fields.
Physical therapists typically need a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree before becoming licensed to practice. Admission requirements vary by institution, but prospective students should generally expect prerequisites in subjects such as anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and statistics.
This guide explores the top physical therapy schools in Atlanta and the surrounding metropolitan area, their programs, admission requirements, and important factors prospective students should consider.
Top Physical Therapy Schools In Atlanta And Requirements
1. Emory University
Emory University is one of the strongest choices for students seeking a Doctor of Physical Therapy education in the Atlanta area. Its physical therapy program is associated with Emory’s renowned health-sciences environment and provides students with opportunities to learn alongside professionals in other healthcare disciplines.
Program: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Typical requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent prerequisite education
- Completion of required prerequisite courses
- Competitive academic performance
- Prerequisite science coursework
- Observation or clinical experience
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Application through the appropriate centralized physical therapy application system
- Interview when required
Students interested in evidence-based healthcare and clinical practice may find Emory particularly attractive.
2. Mercer University
Mercer University offers health-professions education in Georgia and has a strong reputation for preparing students for careers in healthcare.
Its Doctor of Physical Therapy pathway provides students with academic and clinical preparation for professional practice.
Typical requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Required prerequisite courses
- Minimum GPA requirements
- Anatomy and physiology coursework
- Chemistry and physics prerequisites
- Psychology or related social-science courses
- Clinical observation experience
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Application through the designated application system
Mercer can be particularly appealing to students who want a private university environment with a strong healthcare focus.
3. Georgia State University
Georgia State University is a major public research university in Atlanta. Students interested in physical therapy can benefit from its extensive academic environment and proximity to Atlanta’s large healthcare sector.
Applicants should carefully distinguish between undergraduate preparation and professional physical therapy education when reviewing programs.
Common preparation requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Prerequisite science courses
- Strong GPA
- Anatomy and physiology
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Clinical observation or healthcare experience
Georgia State can also provide an excellent foundation for students preparing to apply to professional physical therapy programs.
4. Georgia Southern University
Georgia Southern University is another Georgia institution that students from Atlanta may consider when exploring physical therapy education.
Its healthcare-related academic opportunities can help students develop the foundational knowledge required for advanced rehabilitation education.
Potential requirements include:
- Undergraduate degree
- Prerequisite coursework
- Competitive GPA
- Science courses
- Recommendation letters
- Personal statement
- Healthcare or observation experience
Students should confirm the current DPT admissions structure and program location before applying.
5. Augusta University
Augusta University is particularly notable in Georgia’s healthcare education landscape. The university’s health-sciences environment gives students access to an institution strongly connected with clinical education.
Common DPT admission requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Completion of prerequisite courses
- Minimum GPA
- Anatomy and physiology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Biology
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Clinical experience or observation
- Letters of recommendation
- Application materials and essays
For students willing to study outside Atlanta, Augusta University can be an important Georgia option.
6. University of Georgia
The University of Georgia in Athens is another institution prospective physical therapists may consider.
Although Athens is outside Atlanta, it is within reasonable consideration for Georgia students researching physical therapy education.
Students may need:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Required prerequisite coursework
- Competitive GPA
- Science prerequisites
- Observation hours
- Recommendation letters
- Personal statement
- Application through the appropriate centralized system
UGA’s broad academic resources can make it attractive for students completing undergraduate preparation.
7. University of North Georgia
The University of North Georgia offers health-related academic pathways and can be considered by students researching physical therapy education in Georgia.
Prospective applicants should check whether the specific program they are considering is a professional DPT program or a pre-physical-therapy preparation pathway.
Typical preparation includes:
- Undergraduate education
- Anatomy and physiology
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Healthcare exposure
- Strong academic performance
8. Georgia College & State University
Georgia College & State University is another Georgia institution that may be considered by students preparing for advanced healthcare education.
A student planning a physical therapy career can use undergraduate study to complete the prerequisites needed for competitive DPT applications.
Important requirements may include:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Required science prerequisites
- Appropriate GPA
- Clinical observation
- Recommendation letters
- Personal statement
- Relevant healthcare exposure
9. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw State University is located in the Atlanta metropolitan area and provides students with a wide range of health-related educational opportunities.
For prospective physical therapists, the university can be useful as an undergraduate preparation option.
Students should expect requirements such as:
- Completion of undergraduate education
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Competitive grades
Students should verify whether the particular program they are applying to leads directly to a DPT or prepares them for admission elsewhere.
10. Georgia Gwinnett College
Georgia Gwinnett College is located in Lawrenceville, within the greater Atlanta metropolitan area.
Students interested in physical therapy can pursue undergraduate preparation before applying to a professional DPT program.
Typical prerequisites may include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Anatomy and physiology
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Bachelor’s degree requirements
- Healthcare experience
Its location can make it convenient for students living in the northeastern Atlanta suburbs.
11. University of West Georgia
The University of West Georgia is located in Carrollton, west of Atlanta.
The institution can be considered by students looking for undergraduate preparation for physical therapy school.
Potential requirements include:
- Undergraduate degree
- Science prerequisites
- Good academic standing
- Anatomy and physiology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
Students should carefully review current program offerings before submitting an application.
12. Clayton State University
Clayton State University is located south of Atlanta and offers health-related educational opportunities.
Its location makes it relevant for students searching for physical therapy preparation programs within the wider Atlanta region.
Common preparation requirements include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Anatomy and physiology
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Undergraduate degree
- Competitive GPA
Students should distinguish between pre-physical therapy coursework and an accredited professional DPT program.
13. Life University
Life University in Marietta is well known for its health and wellness focus.
Although its academic offerings are particularly associated with chiropractic and wellness education, students researching rehabilitation careers may find relevant programs and educational resources.
Prospective students should:
- Review the exact degree being offered
- Check professional accreditation
- Determine whether it leads to physical therapist licensure
- Compare prerequisite coursework
- Investigate clinical training opportunities
This distinction is important because not every rehabilitation-related program qualifies graduates to become licensed physical therapists.
14. Brenau University
Brenau University, located in Georgia, provides health and professional education and may be considered by students exploring rehabilitation and healthcare careers.
Students should examine the specific degree and campus location before applying.
Typical requirements for professional healthcare programs may include:
- Undergraduate education
- Prerequisite courses
- GPA requirements
- Recommendation letters
- Personal statement
- Clinical experience
15. Georgia State University Perimeter College Pathway
Georgia State’s Perimeter College can be relevant to students who need to complete foundational college coursework before pursuing advanced education.
Students can use an appropriate undergraduate pathway to complete prerequisites for future DPT applications.
Relevant subjects may include:
- General biology
- General chemistry
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
This route may be particularly useful for students who want to establish a strong academic foundation before applying to professional programs.
16. Morehouse College
Morehouse College is a historically significant institution in Atlanta with a strong reputation for educating students interested in healthcare and professional careers.
Students planning to become physical therapists can pursue undergraduate education that satisfies DPT prerequisites.
Potential preparation includes:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Anatomy and physiology
- Research experience
- Healthcare exposure
Applicants should confirm current course offerings and DPT prerequisite compatibility.
17. Spelman College
Spelman College provides a strong liberal arts and science education in Atlanta and can serve as an undergraduate foundation for students planning healthcare careers.
Students interested in physical therapy can major in an appropriate science discipline while completing the prerequisites required by their target DPT schools.
Useful preparation may include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Anatomy and physiology
- Clinical observation
- Research
18. Clark Atlanta University
Clark Atlanta University offers undergraduate education that can prepare students for graduate and professional healthcare programs.
Students considering physical therapy should work with academic advisers to select courses that satisfy DPT prerequisites.
Important preparation areas include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Anatomy and physiology
Strong academic performance is especially important because DPT programs can be highly competitive.
19. Agnes Scott College
Agnes Scott College is a liberal arts college in the Atlanta area that can provide students with a strong undergraduate science foundation.
A student can use the institution’s academic resources to prepare for eventual admission into a DPT program.
Students should focus on:
- Science prerequisites
- Strong GPA
- Laboratory coursework
- Healthcare exposure
- Research opportunities
- Recommendation letters
20. Oglethorpe University
Oglethorpe University is another Atlanta-area institution that can serve students preparing for professional healthcare education.
Students interested in physical therapy should select courses based on the requirements of their intended DPT schools.
Common subjects include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Anatomy
- Physiology
21. Berry College
Berry College in Georgia offers undergraduate education that can help students prepare for graduate-level healthcare programs.
Students pursuing physical therapy should plan their coursework carefully to ensure they meet the prerequisites of their preferred DPT schools.
Requirements may include:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Science prerequisites
- Strong GPA
- Laboratory courses
- Clinical observation
- Recommendation letters
22. University of South Carolina
For students willing to consider institutions outside Georgia, the University of South Carolina can be another option for physical therapy education within the broader southeastern United States.
Potential DPT applicants should prepare:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Prerequisite courses
- Competitive GPA
- Observation hours
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Healthcare experience
23. University of Alabama at Birmingham
UAB is a major academic medical center and is worth considering for students willing to relocate from Atlanta.
Its healthcare environment can provide students with extensive exposure to clinical education and rehabilitation.
Common DPT application requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Prerequisite courses
- Competitive GPA
- Anatomy and physiology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Clinical observation
- Recommendation letters
24. University of Tennessee Health Science Center
Students interested in physical therapy education in the Southeast can also consider the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
The institution’s health-sciences focus makes it relevant for students seeking professional healthcare education.
Applicants should generally prepare:
- Undergraduate degree
- Prerequisite coursework
- Good academic record
- Clinical observation
- Recommendations
- Personal statement
- Appropriate application materials
25. University of Florida
The University of Florida is another major southeastern university with a strong healthcare and research environment.
Although it is outside Georgia, students from Atlanta who are willing to relocate may include it in a broader physical therapy school search.
Typical requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Required prerequisite coursework
- Strong GPA
- Science prerequisites
- Observation experience
- Recommendation letters
- Personal statement
- Application through the required system
Physical Therapy School Requirements in Atlanta
Although requirements vary by university, most professional DPT programs expect applicants to have completed substantial undergraduate preparation.
Bachelor’s Degree
Most DPT programs require applicants to have completed a bachelor’s degree before beginning professional physical therapy education.
The undergraduate major does not always have to be exercise science or biology. Students can major in another discipline provided they complete the required prerequisite courses.
Prerequisite Courses
Common prerequisite subjects include:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Biology
- General chemistry
- Organic chemistry or biochemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- English or composition
Because individual schools differ, applicants should compare prerequisite lists carefully.
GPA Requirements
A competitive GPA is important when applying to DPT programs.
Some schools establish minimum overall or prerequisite GPAs, while competitive applicants may have substantially higher averages.
Meeting the minimum requirement does not necessarily guarantee admission.
GRE Requirements
Some physical therapy programs may require or recommend the Graduate Record Examination, while others may be test-optional or have removed the requirement.
Applicants should check the current policy for each school before preparing for the GRE.
Observation Hours
Physical therapy programs frequently value direct exposure to the profession.
Applicants may be expected to complete observation or clinical experience under licensed physical therapists. Requirements can vary significantly, including the number of hours and whether hours must cover multiple practice settings.
Letters of Recommendation
Applicants commonly need recommendations from people who can assess their academic ability, professionalism, clinical exposure, or suitability for physical therapy.
Strong recommendations can come from professors, physical therapists, supervisors, or other professionals accepted by the particular program.
Personal Statement
A personal statement allows applicants to explain why they want to become physical therapists and demonstrate their understanding of the profession.
A strong statement should connect the applicant’s experiences, motivation, career objectives, and understanding of patient care.
Interview
Some DPT programs invite qualified applicants for interviews.
Interviews may assess communication skills, professionalism, ethical reasoning, understanding of physical therapy, teamwork, and motivation.
How to Choose the Best Physical Therapy School in Atlanta
Choosing a DPT program should involve more than simply selecting the school with the highest reputation.
Accreditation
Accreditation is one of the most important considerations. Students intending to become licensed physical therapists should ensure that their chosen professional program has the appropriate accreditation status.
Clinical Education
Look at the school’s clinical placement opportunities. Exposure to hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, sports facilities, and other healthcare environments can broaden your professional experience.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Compare tuition, fees, living expenses, scholarships, grants, and other financial-aid opportunities.
A less expensive school may ultimately provide better value if its clinical opportunities and outcomes are comparable.
Location
Atlanta offers a major healthcare ecosystem, which can be beneficial for students seeking clinical experiences and professional networking.
However, students should also consider commuting, housing, transportation, and living expenses.
Graduation and Licensure Preparation
Students should investigate graduation rates, licensure examination performance, and employment outcomes where reliable data are available.
Faculty and Learning Environment
Consider faculty expertise, class sizes, student support, research opportunities, laboratories, and access to clinical facilities.
Comparison Table: Top Physical Therapy Schools and Preparation Options
| School | Location | Main Relevance | Degree/Preparation | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emory University | Atlanta | Professional PT education | DPT | Bachelor’s, prerequisites, clinical experience |
| Mercer University | Georgia | Health-professions education | DPT pathway | Degree, prerequisites, GPA, experience |
| Georgia State University | Atlanta | Undergraduate preparation | Pre-PT preparation | Science courses, GPA, prerequisites |
| Georgia Southern University | Georgia | Healthcare education | PT preparation | Degree, prerequisites, clinical exposure |
| Augusta University | Augusta | Health sciences | DPT/graduate preparation | Degree, prerequisites, GPA |
| University of Georgia | Athens | Undergraduate preparation | Pre-PT | Science prerequisites, GPA |
| University of North Georgia | Georgia | PT preparation | Undergraduate preparation | Prerequisites, academic performance |
| Georgia College & State University | Georgia | Undergraduate preparation | Pre-PT | Science courses, GPA |
| Kennesaw State University | Kennesaw | Atlanta-area preparation | Pre-PT | Prerequisites, strong grades |
| Georgia Gwinnett College | Lawrenceville | Atlanta-area preparation | Pre-PT | Science coursework, GPA |
| University of West Georgia | Carrollton | PT preparation | Undergraduate preparation | Prerequisites, GPA |
| Clayton State University | Morrow | Atlanta-area preparation | Pre-PT | Science prerequisites |
| Life University | Marietta | Health and wellness | Related health education | Program-specific requirements |
| Brenau University | Georgia | Health education | Health-related preparation | Degree, prerequisites |
| Morehouse College | Atlanta | Undergraduate preparation | Pre-health | Science courses, GPA |
| Spelman College | Atlanta | Undergraduate preparation | Pre-health | Science prerequisites |
| Clark Atlanta University | Atlanta | Undergraduate preparation | Pre-health | Science courses, GPA |
| Agnes Scott College | Decatur | Undergraduate preparation | Pre-health | Science prerequisites |
| Oglethorpe University | Atlanta | Undergraduate preparation | Pre-health | Prerequisite courses |
| Berry College | Georgia | Undergraduate preparation | Pre-health | Degree, prerequisites |
| UAB | Birmingham | Professional PT education | DPT | Degree, prerequisites, experience |
| UTHSC | Tennessee | Professional PT education | DPT | Degree, prerequisites |
| University of South Carolina | Columbia | Professional PT education | DPT | Degree, prerequisites |
| University of Florida | Gainesville | Professional PT education | DPT | Degree, prerequisites |
Related
Conclusion
Choosing among the top physical therapy schools in Atlanta and Georgia requires careful research because there is an important difference between an undergraduate pre-physical therapy pathway and a professional Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.
For students seeking a professional DPT education in or near Atlanta, Emory University and Mercer University are among the most important options to investigate. Students who are still completing their undergraduate education can also consider Atlanta-area institutions such as Georgia State University, Kennesaw State University, Morehouse College, Spelman College, Clark Atlanta University, Agnes Scott College, and Oglethorpe University as potential preparation routes.
Before applying, carefully review each school’s current prerequisite courses, GPA requirements, observation-hour expectations, recommendation requirements, application deadlines, accreditation status, tuition, and clinical education opportunities.
Ultimately, the best physical therapy school is not necessarily the one with the biggest name. It is the program that provides the academic preparation, clinical experience, professional support, affordability, and licensure preparation that best match your career goals.