Barry PhilipsChoosing the right physical therapy school is an important step for students who want to build a rewarding career in rehabilitation, sports medicine, orthopedics, geriatrics, neurology, and other areas of healthcare. Iowa offers several reputable institutions with programs that can prepare students for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) education and eventual licensure.
If you are searching for the top physical therapy schools in Iowa, this guide highlights 20 institutions to consider and explains their admission requirements, program considerations, and what prospective students should know before applying.
Top Physical Therapy Schools In Iowa And Requirements
1. University of Iowa
The University of Iowa is one of the strongest choices for students interested in physical therapy education in the state. Its Doctor of Physical Therapy program provides students with extensive academic and clinical preparation.
Students typically complete prerequisite coursework before entering the professional phase. Common prerequisites include anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, statistics, and related courses.
Typical requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent prerequisite education
- Completion of required prerequisite courses
- Competitive academic record
- Application through the appropriate centralized physical therapy application system
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essays
- Relevant observation or healthcare experience
- Interview, where required
- Completion of additional university requirements
The University of Iowa is particularly attractive to students seeking access to a major academic medical environment.
2. Drake University
Drake University in Des Moines is another Iowa institution worth considering when researching pathways toward physical therapy.
Students interested in becoming physical therapists may use Drake for undergraduate preparation before pursuing a DPT program. The university provides a broad academic environment where students can complete courses relevant to future healthcare study.
Potential prerequisite subjects include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Psychology
- Statistics
- English composition
Students should carefully compare Drake’s undergraduate offerings with the prerequisite requirements of the DPT schools to which they intend to apply.
3. Iowa State University
Iowa State University is a major public university with extensive science and health-related academic offerings. It can be a useful undergraduate pathway for students preparing for physical therapy school.
Students can pursue majors that provide strong foundations in biological and physical sciences while completing prerequisites required by DPT programs.
Important preparation areas include:
- Human biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Anatomy and physiology
- Research experience
- Healthcare exposure
Students should plan their undergraduate coursework around the specific requirements of their preferred DPT programs.
4. University of Northern Iowa
The University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls is another institution worth considering for students planning a career in physical therapy.
Although prospective DPT students need to distinguish undergraduate preparation from professional DPT education, UNI can provide a solid academic foundation in science and related disciplines.
Students should focus on:
- Strong grades
- Required science courses
- Anatomy and physiology
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Volunteer or observation experience
- Strong recommendation letters
A carefully planned undergraduate degree can make the transition into professional physical therapy education easier.
5. Creighton University – Iowa Students and Regional Applicants
Creighton University is based in Omaha, Nebraska, but its proximity to Iowa makes it relevant for Iowa students researching physical therapy programs in the region.
Its physical therapy education provides a potential alternative for students who are willing to study outside Iowa while remaining relatively close to the state.
Common DPT admission expectations may include:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Prerequisite coursework
- Competitive GPA
- Observation or clinical exposure
- Recommendations
- Essays
- Application through the appropriate centralized system
- Interview
Students should confirm current requirements before submitting an application.
6. Clarke University
Clarke University in Dubuque provides health-related academic opportunities and can be considered by students interested in developing a healthcare career.
For students planning to become physical therapists, the key consideration is whether their selected undergraduate courses satisfy the prerequisites of their target DPT programs.
Useful preparation includes:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Psychology
- Statistics
Students should also seek opportunities to observe licensed physical therapists.
7. Loras College
Loras College in Dubuque offers undergraduate education that can help students prepare for professional healthcare programs.
A student interested in physical therapy can use an appropriate undergraduate major to complete the prerequisite courses needed for DPT admission.
Admission preparation should emphasize:
- Science coursework
- Strong academic performance
- Healthcare experience
- Physical therapy observation
- Leadership
- Community involvement
Students should compare their planned courses with the prerequisite checklist of each DPT school they intend to apply to.
8. Coe College
Coe College in Cedar Rapids can be another undergraduate option for students preparing for graduate-level healthcare education.
Students pursuing a pre-physical-therapy pathway should select coursework that meets the requirements of their eventual DPT schools.
Recommended areas include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Anatomy and physiology
- Psychology
- Statistics
Maintaining a strong GPA is especially important because DPT programs can be competitive.
9. Cornell College
Cornell College in Mount Vernon offers students a liberal arts education that can be useful for developing the academic and communication skills needed in healthcare.
Pre-physical-therapy students should use their undergraduate years to complete science prerequisites while building interpersonal and leadership skills.
Prospective applicants should consider gaining:
- Physical therapy observation hours
- Volunteer experience
- Research exposure
- Healthcare experience
- Leadership experience
10. Grinnell College
Grinnell College is another Iowa institution that can serve as an undergraduate preparation route for students who eventually want to attend DPT school.
Its broad academic environment can allow students to combine science preparation with communication, critical thinking, and research skills.
Students should prioritize:
- Prerequisite science courses
- High grades
- Research or academic projects
- Healthcare exposure
- Recommendation relationships with professors
Because DPT requirements differ among universities, students should plan carefully rather than assuming that every biology or science course automatically satisfies a prerequisite.
11. Luther College
Luther College in Decorah provides undergraduate academic opportunities for students interested in healthcare professions.
A student pursuing physical therapy can choose an appropriate science-related major and complete DPT prerequisites alongside general education requirements.
Useful courses may include:
- General biology
- General chemistry
- Organic chemistry
- Physics
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Psychology
- Statistics
Students should also begin researching DPT schools early in their undergraduate careers.
12. Simpson College
Simpson College in Indianola can provide undergraduate preparation for students planning careers in healthcare.
Students interested in physical therapy should work closely with academic advisers to ensure they complete all required prerequisites.
A strong applicant typically combines academic preparation with practical exposure to the profession.
Important areas include:
- Excellent grades
- Required prerequisite coursework
- Physical therapy observation
- Volunteer service
- Strong references
- Well-prepared application essays
13. Central College
Central College in Pella is another Iowa institution students can explore when developing a pre-physical-therapy academic plan.
The most important consideration is not simply choosing a major but ensuring that the degree includes all courses required by prospective DPT programs.
Students should begin identifying target DPT schools early so they can avoid missing prerequisites.
14. Buena Vista University
Buena Vista University in Storm Lake offers undergraduate education that can support students interested in professional healthcare careers.
Pre-physical-therapy students should build a curriculum around the requirements of their preferred DPT programs.
A competitive preparation plan may include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Anatomy and physiology
- Statistics
- Psychology
- Healthcare-related experience
15. Dordt University
Dordt University in Sioux Center is another Iowa institution that students can consider for undergraduate preparation.
Students interested in physical therapy should focus on developing strong science knowledge while also building communication and interpersonal skills.
Physical therapists work closely with patients, families, physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, making communication skills particularly valuable.
16. Northwestern College
Northwestern College in Orange City provides another possible undergraduate route for students planning to enter professional healthcare education.
Students should discuss their physical therapy goals with academic advisers and identify courses that will satisfy DPT prerequisites.
They should also consider obtaining experience in physical therapy clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, or related healthcare settings.
17. University of Dubuque
The University of Dubuque offers undergraduate programs that can support students preparing for graduate and professional healthcare education.
Students interested in physical therapy should select a suitable major while completing the science and general education courses required by DPT programs.
A well-rounded applicant should demonstrate academic ability as well as genuine understanding of the physical therapy profession.
18. Mount Mercy University
Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids is another Iowa institution that prospective physical therapy students can investigate.
Its undergraduate environment can help students develop the foundation needed for professional healthcare education.
Students should pay particular attention to prerequisite science courses and maintain strong grades throughout their undergraduate studies.
19. Grand View University
Grand View University in Des Moines offers undergraduate educational opportunities that can be relevant to students preparing for professional healthcare programs.
Students interested in DPT education should research their intended physical therapy schools before selecting courses.
This approach helps ensure that their undergraduate transcript contains the required subjects and credit hours.
20. Mercy College of Health Sciences
Mercy College of Health Sciences in Des Moines is focused heavily on healthcare education and can be relevant to students exploring health professions.
Students interested in physical therapy should determine whether their desired program or coursework satisfies the prerequisites of the DPT programs they intend to apply to.
Healthcare-focused academic environments can also provide students with opportunities to become familiar with patient care and the broader healthcare system.
What Are the Requirements for Physical Therapy School in Iowa?
Requirements vary depending on the institution and whether you are applying directly to a DPT program or preparing for DPT admission through an undergraduate program.
Generally, students should expect several major requirements.
Bachelor’s Degree
Most entry-level DPT programs require applicants to have completed a bachelor’s degree or to have completed the required undergraduate education before matriculation.
The bachelor’s degree does not necessarily have to be in physical therapy. Biology, exercise science, kinesiology, health sciences, and related majors are common choices.
Prerequisite Courses
Prerequisites are among the most important components of a physical therapy school application.
Common requirements include:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- English or writing
- Social sciences
Exact credit-hour requirements vary, so students should compare individual DPT programs carefully.
GPA Requirements
DPT programs typically expect applicants to demonstrate strong academic performance.
Some programs establish minimum cumulative and prerequisite GPAs, while competitive applicants may have significantly higher GPAs.
Students should aim to maintain strong grades, particularly in science courses.
Physical Therapy Observation Experience
Many DPT programs value or require observation or exposure to physical therapy.
Students can gain experience by observing licensed physical therapists working in settings such as:
- Hospitals
- Outpatient clinics
- Rehabilitation centers
- Sports facilities
- Skilled nursing facilities
- Pediatric clinics
Keeping a record of observation hours, including dates, settings, and supervising therapists, can make the application process easier.
Letters of Recommendation
Applicants may need recommendation letters from professors, physical therapists, employers, or other qualified professionals.
Strong recommendations should provide evidence of the applicant’s academic ability, professionalism, communication skills, work ethic, and suitability for patient-centered healthcare.
Personal Statement
The application may require essays explaining why the applicant wants to become a physical therapist.
A strong personal statement should demonstrate genuine motivation rather than simply stating that physical therapy is a good career.
Applicants should explain their experiences, understanding of the profession, goals, and reasons for choosing physical therapy.
Interview
Some DPT programs use interviews as part of their admission process.
Applicants should be prepared to discuss:
- Why they chose physical therapy
- Their understanding of the profession
- Patient care
- Teamwork
- Ethical situations
- Communication
- Healthcare experiences
- Career goals
GRE Requirements
GRE requirements vary considerably among DPT programs. Some programs may require the exam, while others may make it optional or not consider it.
Students should check the current admission requirements of each program before deciding whether to take the GRE.
Application Through PTCAS
Many physical therapy programs use the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS) to manage applications.
Applicants generally submit academic information, prerequisite details, essays, references, and other application materials through the appropriate application system.
Clinical Education
Admission is only the beginning of becoming a physical therapist.
DPT students complete classroom education as well as supervised clinical education. Clinical experiences allow students to apply concepts such as therapeutic exercise, movement analysis, rehabilitation, patient assessment, and treatment planning.
Physical Therapy Licensure in Iowa
After completing an accredited DPT program, graduates must satisfy the requirements for physical therapist licensure in the state where they intend to practice.
In Iowa, this includes meeting the state’s educational and examination requirements. Graduates generally take the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) as part of the licensure process.
Because licensing regulations can change, applicants should consult the current Iowa licensing requirements when preparing for graduation.
How Much Does Physical Therapy School Cost in Iowa?
The cost of becoming a physical therapist varies substantially depending on the institution, residency status, tuition, living expenses, books, equipment, transportation, and clinical education costs.
Public universities may offer different tuition rates for Iowa residents and nonresidents, while private institutions generally have their own tuition structures.
Students should calculate the total cost of attendance, rather than looking only at tuition.
Financial considerations may include:
- Tuition
- University fees
- Housing
- Food
- Transportation
- Books
- Technology
- Clinical travel
- Health insurance
- Professional examination fees
Scholarships, grants, assistantships, savings, and student loans may help students manage the cost.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Physical Therapist in Iowa?
The pathway generally takes several years.
Students normally complete undergraduate education and prerequisite courses before entering a Doctor of Physical Therapy program. A DPT program itself typically takes about three years of professional study, although the exact structure varies by institution.
After graduation, the student must satisfy applicable licensure requirements and pass the required examination before practicing independently.
How to Choose the Best Physical Therapy School in Iowa
The best physical therapy school is not necessarily the one with the highest name recognition. Students should evaluate several factors.
Consider:
- Accreditation
- Program outcomes
- Clinical education opportunities
- Tuition and total cost
- Location
- Class size
- Faculty
- Specialty opportunities
- Student support
- Licensure preparation
Students should also investigate whether the program offers clinical experiences in areas that match their interests, such as sports rehabilitation, pediatrics, neurology, orthopedics, geriatrics, or cardiopulmonary rehabilitation.
Comparison Table: Physical Therapy Schools and Pathways in Iowa
| School | City | Type of Opportunity | Key Preparation Areas | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Iowa | Iowa City | DPT/Professional | Science prerequisites, bachelor’s education, clinical preparation | Students seeking a major Iowa DPT program |
| Drake University | Des Moines | Undergraduate pathway | Biology, chemistry, physics, psychology | Pre-health students |
| Iowa State University | Ames | Undergraduate pathway | Sciences, research, health preparation | Students seeking a large public university |
| University of Northern Iowa | Cedar Falls | Undergraduate pathway | Science and general education | Pre-health students |
| Clarke University | Dubuque | Undergraduate pathway | Biology, chemistry, anatomy | Healthcare-focused students |
| Loras College | Dubuque | Undergraduate pathway | Sciences, observation, leadership | Liberal arts students |
| Coe College | Cedar Rapids | Undergraduate pathway | Biology, chemistry, physics | Students seeking smaller classes |
| Cornell College | Mount Vernon | Undergraduate pathway | Sciences, research, communication | Liberal arts students |
| Grinnell College | Grinnell | Undergraduate pathway | Sciences, research, academics | High-achieving students |
| Luther College | Decorah | Undergraduate pathway | Biology, chemistry, physics | Students seeking liberal arts education |
| Simpson College | Indianola | Undergraduate pathway | Science prerequisites, healthcare experience | Pre-health students |
| Central College | Pella | Undergraduate pathway | Sciences and prerequisite planning | Students seeking personalized education |
| Buena Vista University | Storm Lake | Undergraduate pathway | Biology, chemistry, physics | Regional students |
| Dordt University | Sioux Center | Undergraduate pathway | Sciences and patient-care preparation | Students seeking broad preparation |
| Northwestern College | Orange City | Undergraduate pathway | Science courses and clinical exposure | Pre-health students |
| University of Dubuque | Dubuque | Undergraduate pathway | Science prerequisites | Healthcare-focused students |
| Mount Mercy University | Cedar Rapids | Undergraduate pathway | Science and health preparation | Students seeking a private university |
| Grand View University | Des Moines | Undergraduate pathway | Sciences and professional preparation | Des Moines-area students |
| Mercy College of Health Sciences | Des Moines | Healthcare pathway | Health sciences and patient care | Healthcare-oriented students |
| Creighton University | Omaha, Nebraska | Regional DPT option | DPT prerequisites and clinical preparation | Iowa students willing to study nearby |
Related
Conclusion
Iowa offers students several ways to prepare for a career in physical therapy, with the University of Iowa standing out as the state’s major direct DPT option. Other institutions, including Iowa State University, Drake University, the University of Northern Iowa, and several Iowa liberal arts colleges, can provide valuable undergraduate preparation for students who plan to apply to DPT programs.
Before applying, prospective students should carefully review physical therapy school requirements, particularly prerequisite courses, GPA expectations, observation experience, recommendation letters, application procedures, and any examination requirements.
The most effective strategy is to identify several DPT programs early, compare their prerequisites, and then build an undergraduate academic plan that satisfies those requirements. This can help prevent delays and make the transition into professional physical therapy education much smoother.