Barry PhilipsOregon is an excellent state to explore for students interested in physical therapy, rehabilitation, human movement, and healthcare. Whether you are preparing for your first university degree or looking for a professional programme that will lead to a career as a physical therapist, understanding the available educational options is an important first step.
Physical therapists help people recover from injuries, manage movement disorders, improve mobility, and regain independence after surgery or illness. They work in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, outpatient clinics, sports facilities, nursing homes, and other healthcare environments.
In the United States, the standard route to becoming a licensed physical therapist involves earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an appropriately accredited programme, meeting the applicable state licensing requirements, and passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
This article explores the top 10 universities to consider when planning a physical therapy education in Oregon. It covers their locations, educational pathways, admission requirements, and the factors prospective students should consider before applying.
Important note: This list includes both professional DPT education and undergraduate preparation. Pacific University and George Fox University are the two professional DPT programmes highlighted in this guide. The other universities are potential undergraduate preparation options, not necessarily institutions offering a dedicated pre-physical therapy programme. Applicants should confirm current academic offerings and accreditation before making a decision.
Top Physical Therapy Schools In Oregon And Requirements
1. Pacific University — Doctor of Physical Therapy
Pacific University is one of the leading institutions to consider when looking for a professional physical therapy programme in Oregon. Based in Forest Grove, with its health professions campus in Hillsboro, the university offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy programme designed to prepare students for clinical practice.
The programme combines scientific knowledge, clinical reasoning, and practical education. Students learn to assess movement limitations, develop treatment plans, and help patients improve their physical function.
Pacific University is particularly worth considering for applicants seeking a direct professional pathway into physical therapy rather than an undergraduate degree alone.
Admission requirements
Applicants should generally prepare to meet the following requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree from an appropriately accredited institution before enrolment.
- A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 and a prerequisite GPA of at least 3.0 under the standard admission criteria.
- Completion of required prerequisite courses with grades of C or better.
- At least 50 verified physical therapy observation hours.
- Two recommendation letters, including one from a licensed physical therapist.
- A completed application through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS).
- A personal statement and any additional programme-specific application materials.
- An interview if selected by the admissions committee.
Pacific encourages applicants to complete at least 100 observation hours across two or more clinical settings. Applicants should check the current admissions policy for any alternative academic eligibility provisions, prerequisite requirements, and application deadlines.
The GRE is not required under the programme’s published admissions requirements.
Why choose Pacific University?
Pacific is a strong option for students seeking professional physical therapy training, clinical experience, and preparation for the licensing process. Before applying, compare its tuition, financial aid opportunities, clinical education arrangements, and programme structure with those of other DPT schools.
2. George Fox University — Doctor of Physical Therapy
George Fox University, located in Newberg, is another major option for students pursuing professional physical therapy education in Oregon.
Its Doctor of Physical Therapy programme prepares students to provide evidence-based care to people experiencing injuries, physical impairments, and mobility challenges. The curriculum focuses on developing clinical judgement, patient communication, rehabilitation knowledge, and practical skills.
The university may appeal to students who want professional training in a university environment that also emphasises personal development and service.
Admission requirements
Applicants should generally expect to meet the following criteria:
- A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, completed before enrolment.
- A competitive cumulative GPA and prerequisite GPA, with 3.0 or higher serving as a useful benchmark.
- Completion of the required prerequisite courses with acceptable grades.
- A verified PTCAS application.
- Two references, including an academic reference and a reference from a physical therapist.
- Approximately 100 observation hours across at least two areas of physical therapy for a competitive application.
- An interview if selected.
- English proficiency documentation where applicable.
Required prerequisite subjects include areas such as anatomy and physiology, biology, chemistry, physics, and statistics. The university also has rules concerning how recently prerequisite courses must have been completed, so applicants should check its current policy.
The GRE is not required under the published admission criteria.
Why choose George Fox University?
George Fox is worth considering for students seeking a professional DPT degree with a strong clinical preparation component. Applicants should review its current entry requirements, clinical placement arrangements, tuition, and incoming-class statistics before submitting an application.
3. Oregon State University–Cascades — Undergraduate Preparation for Physical Therapy
Oregon State University–Cascades, located in Bend, is an option for students who want to complete undergraduate education before applying to a professional physical therapy programme.
Students interested in human movement, exercise, and health sciences can investigate the university’s current kinesiology and allied health-related academic options. Such studies can provide a useful foundation in anatomy, physiology, exercise, and the scientific principles underlying physical rehabilitation.
However, undergraduate preparation does not qualify someone to practise as a licensed physical therapist. Students must subsequently complete an appropriate professional DPT programme.
Admission requirements
Undergraduate applicants should generally prepare:
- High school transcripts or recognised equivalent qualifications.
- A completed undergraduate application.
- Previous college transcripts for transfer applications.
- Any additional academic documentation required by the university.
- English-language proficiency documentation where applicable.
Once admitted, students should consult academic advisers to develop a course plan that meets the prerequisites of their intended DPT schools.
Common prerequisites include biology, anatomy and physiology, chemistry, physics, statistics, and psychology. The exact combination depends on the professional programme.
Why choose Oregon State University–Cascades?
Its Bend location may appeal to students who prefer studying outside a large metropolitan area. It is worth investigating for undergraduate preparation in movement and health-related sciences, provided the available courses align with the student’s long-term goals.
4. Oregon State University — Science-Based Undergraduate Preparation
Oregon State University’s main campus in Corvallis provides a broad undergraduate learning environment for students interested in scientific disciplines relevant to physical therapy.
A suitable undergraduate degree can help students develop the knowledge needed to understand human biology, body systems, exercise, and physical function. Depending on current programme offerings, prospective physical therapists may investigate biology, kinesiology-related studies, or other relevant scientific fields.
Students should remember that an undergraduate degree is a preparatory qualification, not a replacement for professional DPT education.
Admission requirements
Prospective students should review the university’s current undergraduate admission criteria. Applicants generally need to provide:
- High school transcripts or equivalent qualifications.
- Previous college transcripts if applying as a transfer student.
- A completed undergraduate application.
- Additional documentation required for international applicants, where applicable.
After admission, students should work with academic advisers to ensure that their course selections meet the prerequisites of their intended DPT programmes.
Relevant subjects commonly include biology, anatomy and physiology, chemistry, physics, statistics, and psychology.
Why choose Oregon State University?
The university may suit students seeking a comprehensive undergraduate education before entering professional healthcare training. Early academic planning can help applicants avoid taking unnecessary courses or missing important prerequisites.
5. University of Oregon — Human Physiology and Related Studies
The University of Oregon in Eugene is worth considering for students interested in the scientific foundations of physical therapy.
Human physiology and related disciplines explore how the body functions, how muscles and nerves contribute to movement, and how the body responds to exercise, injury, and illness. These subjects can provide useful preparation for advanced study in rehabilitation and healthcare.
However, an undergraduate degree in human physiology does not independently qualify a graduate to practise as a licensed physical therapist.
Admission requirements
Applicants should satisfy the university’s current undergraduate admission requirements and any additional criteria for their selected major.
Students preparing for a future DPT application should consider completing:
- Biology and chemistry courses.
- Human anatomy and physiology.
- Physics, including laboratory components where required.
- Statistics.
- Psychology or other behavioural science prerequisites.
- Clinical observation or relevant volunteer experience.
Applicants should confirm that each course meets the requirements of their preferred DPT programmes before registering.
Why choose the University of Oregon?
The university may be a good option for students interested in understanding human movement, body function, and the science of rehabilitation through undergraduate study.
6. Portland State University — Biology and Health-Related Studies
Portland State University, located in Portland, offers undergraduate education for students interested in biological sciences and related academic fields.
Prospective physical therapists can investigate suitable majors and course combinations that provide the scientific foundation required for professional doctoral education. The most important consideration is selecting a programme that allows students to complete the necessary DPT prerequisites.
Students should not assume that every biology or health-related degree automatically satisfies the admission requirements of every physical therapy school.
Admission requirements
Undergraduate applicants should generally prepare:
- High school transcripts or equivalent qualifications.
- College transcripts for transfer applications.
- A completed university application.
- Additional documentation for international applicants, where required.
Students should consult academic advisers about appropriate majors, laboratory science requirements, and prerequisite planning.
Clinical observation is also valuable. Spending time in a physical therapy setting can help prospective applicants understand the profession and determine whether it matches their interests.
Why choose Portland State University?
Its location in Portland may appeal to students seeking an urban university environment. Before enrolling, compare the available degree programmes and course schedules with the requirements of the professional DPT schools you intend to apply to.
7. University of Portland — Undergraduate Science Preparation
The University of Portland is another institution to investigate when planning an undergraduate pathway towards physical therapy.
Students can explore relevant science and health-related degree options, with the aim of completing a bachelor’s degree and the prerequisite courses needed for admission to an accredited professional DPT programme.
The university is included here as an undergraduate preparation option, not as a confirmed professional DPT provider.
Admission requirements
Prospective undergraduate students should generally prepare:
- A high school diploma or recognised equivalent qualification.
- Academic transcripts.
- A completed university application.
- Additional documentation for transfer applicants, where applicable.
- English proficiency documentation for international applicants, if required.
Students should review current degree offerings and determine whether their chosen academic plan includes the necessary science courses and laboratory components.
Why choose the University of Portland?
Students who prefer a private university environment may wish to investigate its undergraduate programmes. The most important consideration is whether the selected degree supports the student’s long-term physical therapy education plans.
8. Linfield University — Pre-Health and Science Preparation
Linfield University, located in McMinnville, is another institution prospective physical therapists can research when considering undergraduate education in Oregon.
Students interested in biology and health-related subjects should investigate the university’s current academic offerings and determine which courses can satisfy the prerequisites of their preferred DPT programmes.
A well-planned undergraduate education can help students develop the scientific knowledge, study habits, and academic preparation needed for professional healthcare training.
Admission requirements
Applicants should review the university’s current undergraduate admission criteria. These typically include secondary-school academic records and a completed application. Transfer applicants may also need to submit transcripts from previous institutions.
For future DPT admission, students should plan to complete relevant coursework in:
- Biology.
- Chemistry.
- Human anatomy and physiology.
- Physics.
- Statistics.
- Psychology or other required behavioural sciences.
Clinical observation and volunteer experience can also help applicants understand the practical responsibilities of physical therapists.
Why choose Linfield University?
Linfield may be worth considering for students seeking undergraduate education in a smaller university setting. Before applying, verify the availability of relevant courses and whether the intended degree allows you to meet the prerequisites of your target DPT programmes.
9. Western Oregon University — Exercise and Health-Related Studies
Western Oregon University, located in Monmouth, is another institution to investigate for undergraduate study related to exercise, health, and human movement.
Knowledge of physical activity, exercise principles, and body mechanics can be valuable when preparing for rehabilitation-related careers. Nevertheless, students should verify current degree offerings rather than assume that every exercise or health-related course of study constitutes a dedicated pre-physical therapy pathway.
Admission requirements
Applicants should meet the university’s current undergraduate admission requirements and submit the necessary academic records.
Additional documentation may be required for transfer and international students.
Students planning to apply to a DPT programme should:
- Choose an appropriate undergraduate degree.
- Complete all required prerequisite courses.
- Maintain a strong cumulative and prerequisite GPA.
- Obtain relevant physical therapy observation experience.
- Develop relationships with instructors and clinical professionals who can provide meaningful recommendations.
Why choose Western Oregon University?
The university may appeal to students interested in exercise and health-related education in Monmouth. Prospective applicants should first confirm that their intended degree and course schedule support their professional-school plans.
10. Southern Oregon University — Health and Science-Related Preparation
Southern Oregon University, located in Ashland, rounds out this list of institutions worth investigating for undergraduate preparation towards a physical therapy career.
Students interested in science and health-related disciplines can explore the university’s current academic programmes and identify courses that may satisfy the prerequisites of their intended DPT schools.
As with the other undergraduate options in this article, completing a bachelor’s degree here does not independently qualify a graduate to practise as a licensed physical therapist.
Admission requirements
Applicants should prepare the academic records and application materials required for undergraduate admission. Transfer and international applicants may have additional documentation requirements.
Students should also plan to complete the prerequisites required by their intended professional programmes. These commonly include biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, physics, statistics, and psychology, although requirements differ.
Why choose Southern Oregon University?
It is worth investigating for students who prefer to explore undergraduate study options in southern Oregon. Its suitability depends on the current course offerings and how well the chosen degree aligns with the requirements of the professional DPT programme the student ultimately selects.
General Admission Requirements for Physical Therapy Schools in Oregon
Although admission policies vary between institutions, students applying to professional DPT programmes should prepare for several common requirements.
1. A Bachelor’s Degree
Professional DPT programmes generally require applicants to complete a bachelor’s degree before enrolment. The undergraduate major does not always have to be physical therapy or exercise science, provided the applicant completes the required prerequisites.
Commonly relevant majors include biology, kinesiology, exercise science, and human physiology.
2. A Competitive GPA
Academic performance is an important part of the admission process. Pacific University uses a standard minimum cumulative GPA and prerequisite GPA of 3.0, while George Fox University identifies a GPA of 3.0 or higher as a competitive benchmark.
Meeting a minimum requirement does not guarantee admission. Applicants should aim for strong grades, particularly in science courses, and review each school’s policies concerning repeated courses and prerequisites still in progress.
3. Completion of Prerequisite Courses
Common prerequisite subjects include:
- General biology.
- Human anatomy and physiology.
- General chemistry.
- General physics.
- Statistics.
- Psychology or other specified behavioural sciences.
Some programmes require laboratory components, particular credit-hour totals, minimum grades, or courses completed within a specified number of years. Students should confirm these details before selecting undergraduate courses.
4. Physical Therapy Observation Hours
Observation experience helps applicants understand the responsibilities of physical therapists and the realities of patient care.
Pacific University requires at least 50 verified observation hours and encourages applicants to complete 100 or more. George Fox University identifies approximately 100 hours across at least two areas of physical therapy as a competitive benchmark.
Students should seek appropriate opportunities in outpatient rehabilitation clinics, hospitals, and other physical therapy settings. Applicants should also confirm how their chosen programme defines and verifies observation hours.
5. Recommendation Letters and Personal Statements
Professional DPT programmes may require academic recommendations, a reference from a licensed physical therapist, a personal statement, and additional essays or application responses.
Applicants should select referees who can speak meaningfully about their academic ability, communication skills, professional interests, reliability, and readiness for clinical education.
6. PTCAS Application and Interview
Pacific University and George Fox University use the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS) for DPT applications.
Applicants should follow each programme’s deadlines and application instructions. An interview may be required for selected candidates.
Before enrolment, students may also need to satisfy requirements involving background checks, immunisation records, clinical placement clearance, and other programme-specific conditions.
Comparison Table: Top 10 Physical Therapy Schools in Oregon
The following table summarises the institutions discussed in this article and the educational pathways prospective students can investigate.
| School | Location | Educational pathway | Professional DPT identified in this guide? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific University | Forest Grove / Hillsboro | Doctor of Physical Therapy | Yes |
| George Fox University | Newberg | Doctor of Physical Therapy | Yes |
| Oregon State University–Cascades | Bend | Undergraduate preparation | No |
| Oregon State University | Corvallis | Undergraduate science preparation | No |
| University of Oregon | Eugene | Human physiology and related studies | No |
| Portland State University | Portland | Biology and related studies | No |
| University of Portland | Portland | Undergraduate preparation | No |
| Linfield University | McMinnville | Pre-health and science preparation | No |
| Western Oregon University | Monmouth | Exercise and health-related studies | No |
| Southern Oregon University | Ashland | Health and science-related preparation | No |
This is a practical list of institutions to investigate, not a definitive statewide accreditation directory or a ranking based on acceptance rates, student outcomes, or programme quality. Confirm current academic offerings and accreditation before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many physical therapy schools are in Oregon?
This guide highlights two professional DPT options—Pacific University and George Fox University—and eight additional universities to investigate for undergraduate preparation. It should not be interpreted as an exhaustive list of every institution offering physical therapy-related education in Oregon.
What is the easiest physical therapy school to get into in Oregon?
There is no universally easiest school to enter. Admission depends on GPA, prerequisite completion, observation experience, recommendations, interviews, and the competitiveness of the applicant pool.
Students should compare each programme’s current admission criteria and incoming-class statistics before deciding where to apply.
Can I become a physical therapist with only a bachelor’s degree?
Generally, no. The standard US pathway requires an appropriate professional DPT degree and completion of the applicable licensing requirements. An undergraduate degree alone does not qualify someone to practise as a licensed physical therapist.
Can international students apply to physical therapy schools in Oregon?
International applicants may be eligible, depending on the institution’s policies. They should confirm how foreign academic qualifications and prerequisite courses are evaluated, whether English proficiency tests are required, and what financial documentation is necessary.
Applicants should also investigate tuition, living expenses, insurance, visa requirements, and the availability of financial assistance for international students.
How long does it take to become a physical therapist?
A typical pathway involves approximately four years of undergraduate study followed by around three years in a professional DPT programme. The actual duration depends on the student’s prior qualifications, prerequisite completion, and the structure of the programme.
Related
Conclusion
Oregon offers educational opportunities for students interested in physical therapy, ranging from undergraduate science preparation to professional doctoral training. Pacific University and George Fox University are the two professional DPT options highlighted in this article, while the other universities may provide suitable undergraduate preparation depending on their current programmes and course offerings.
Before choosing a school, compare admission requirements, prerequisite courses, observation hours, tuition, financial aid, clinical education opportunities, and application deadlines. Most importantly, verify that the professional DPT programme you intend to attend holds the appropriate accreditation.
With careful academic planning, strong performance in prerequisite courses, and relevant clinical observation experience, aspiring physical therapists can build a solid foundation for a rewarding career helping patients recover from injuries, improve mobility, and regain independence.