Barry PhilipsChoosing the right physical therapy school in Tennessee can be the first step toward a rewarding career in healthcare. Physical therapists help people recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, improve mobility, regain strength after surgery, and maintain independence as they age. They work in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, sports medicine facilities, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, and home healthcare settings.
Tennessee offers several educational pathways for aspiring physical therapy professionals. Students can pursue a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree to become physical therapists or complete an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program to prepare for an assistant-level career.
However, choosing a school involves more than comparing locations. Prospective students should consider accreditation, admission requirements, tuition, clinical training opportunities, graduation outcomes, and eligibility for professional licensure.
This guide explores physical therapy schools in Tennessee, their programmes, typical admission requirements, and the factors students should consider before applying.
Important: The schools below are options to investigate, not an official ranking. Programme availability, campus offerings, accreditation status, and admission requirements may change. Confirm the current details with each institution before applying.
Top Physical Therapy Schools in Tennessee
1. Belmont University – Nashville, Tennessee
Belmont University is a private university in Nashville that offers professional healthcare education, including a Doctor of Physical Therapy programme. Its location in a major healthcare market makes it an option for students interested in developing clinical skills and professional connections.
The DPT pathway prepares students to assess movement limitations, understand musculoskeletal and neurological conditions, develop rehabilitation plans, and evaluate patients’ progress. Students pursuing this degree should expect demanding academic work alongside practical and supervised clinical education.
Programme: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Typical admission requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree completed before entering the professional programme.
- Completion of the required prerequisite courses.
- Competitive overall and prerequisite grade-point averages.
- Official academic transcripts and a completed application.
- Any required recommendations, personal statements, interviews, or clinical observation experience.
Applicants should obtain Belmont’s current prerequisite checklist and confirm its application deadlines, tuition, and programme accreditation status.
2. East Tennessee State University – Johnson City, Tennessee
East Tennessee State University (ETSU) is a public university in Johnson City and an option for students seeking professional physical therapy education in northeastern Tennessee.
Physical therapy training at the doctoral level combines foundational sciences with clinical reasoning, patient assessment, therapeutic interventions, and supervised clinical practice. These skills prepare students to work with patients who have mobility limitations, injuries, or other conditions affecting physical function.
Programme: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Typical admission requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree from an acceptable institution.
- Completion of the required science and general education prerequisites.
- A competitive academic record.
- Submission of transcripts and the required application materials.
- Any programme-specific clinical exposure, recommendations, or additional assessments.
Students should review ETSU’s current admission requirements carefully, particularly the prerequisite subjects, minimum grades, application deadlines, and clinical experience expectations.
3. Tennessee State University – Nashville, Tennessee
Tennessee State University (TSU) is a public historically Black university in Nashville. It is an institution for prospective students to investigate when comparing professional healthcare education opportunities in Tennessee.
A DPT curriculum typically covers human anatomy, physiology, movement science, clinical examination, rehabilitation planning, and patient-centred care. Students also learn to apply research findings and professional standards when making treatment decisions.
Programme: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Typical admission requirements:
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree before matriculation.
- Required prerequisite coursework in relevant sciences and other subjects.
- Competitive undergraduate and prerequisite GPAs.
- Official transcripts and a completed application.
- Any additional documents, experience, or assessments specified by the programme.
Applicants should confirm that the programme is accepting applications for their intended entry year and review the latest admission and accreditation information before making a decision.
4. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga – Chattanooga, Tennessee
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) is a public university serving students in southeastern Tennessee. Its physical therapy education pathway is an option for those seeking professional training in rehabilitation and movement science.
Students pursuing a DPT degree develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to evaluate patients, identify functional limitations, establish treatment goals, and support recovery. Clinical education is an essential component of preparation for professional practice.
Programme: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Typical admission requirements:
- A completed bachelor’s degree.
- Successful completion of prerequisite courses.
- A strong academic record, particularly in relevant science subjects.
- Submission of transcripts and other required application documents.
- Any specified clinical observation, interview, or professional preparation requirements.
Prospective applicants should compare the university’s published minimum requirements with its competitive admission profile. Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee a place in the programme.
5. University of Tennessee Health Science Center – Memphis, Tennessee
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) is an academic health institution in Memphis. Its healthcare-focused environment makes it an option for students interested in professional rehabilitation education.
Doctoral physical therapy education combines scientific foundations with practical instruction in patient assessment, movement analysis, therapeutic exercise, rehabilitation planning, and clinical decision-making. Students also learn about communication, professional ethics, and evidence-based care.
Programme: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Typical admission requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree completed before enrolment.
- Completion of the programme’s prerequisite subjects.
- Competitive academic performance.
- Official transcripts and all required application documents.
- Satisfaction of clinical education and other professional programme requirements.
Before applying, check the current admission cycle, prerequisite requirements, tuition, clinical training arrangements, and accreditation status.
6. South College – Knoxville, Tennessee
South College is a private institution in Knoxville that offers professional healthcare education and is an option for students comparing physical therapy programmes in Tennessee.
A Doctor of Physical Therapy programme is designed to prepare students to assess movement disorders, develop treatment plans, deliver appropriate interventions, and evaluate rehabilitation outcomes. Students should examine the programme’s structure, clinical placement opportunities, and overall cost before applying.
Programme: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Typical admission requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree or satisfaction of the programme’s stated educational requirements.
- Completion of the required prerequisite courses.
- Competitive academic performance.
- Submission of academic transcripts and application documents.
- Compliance with any interview, clinical education, or professional requirements.
Applicants should verify the current programme offering and accreditation status for their intended campus. They should also confirm whether the programme meets the educational requirements for physical therapist licensure.
7. Lincoln Memorial University – Harrogate, Tennessee
Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) is a private university in Harrogate. Prospective students interested in healthcare careers in eastern Tennessee may wish to investigate its physical therapy education offerings.
Physical therapy training develops knowledge of anatomy, physiology, movement science, patient assessment, and rehabilitation techniques. Students also learn to work with patients experiencing mobility challenges resulting from injury, illness, surgery, or neurological conditions.
Programme: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), subject to current programme availability.
Typical admission requirements:
- A qualifying bachelor’s degree.
- Completion of required prerequisite courses.
- Competitive overall and prerequisite GPAs.
- Official transcripts and a completed application.
- Any required recommendations, interviews, clinical observation, or additional assessments.
Applicants should confirm the programme’s current admissions status, accreditation, tuition, and clinical placement arrangements before submitting an application.
8. Freed-Hardeman University – Henderson, Tennessee
Freed-Hardeman University is a private Christian university in Henderson. Students comparing physical therapy education options may wish to investigate whether the university currently offers a qualifying professional physical therapy programme.
For anyone planning to become a physical therapist, the essential consideration is whether the institution offers an appropriate, accredited DPT degree. A general health science or pre-physical therapy pathway may help students prepare for professional school, but it is not equivalent to earning a DPT.
Programme: Confirm the current physical therapy degree offering directly with the university.
If applying to a DPT programme, typical requirements include:
- A bachelor’s degree.
- Completion of required prerequisite subjects.
- Competitive academic performance.
- Academic transcripts and other application materials.
- Any programme-specific clinical experience or assessment requirements.
Do not assume that a pre-physical therapy pathway qualifies graduates to practise as physical therapists. Confirm the actual degree awarded and its accreditation status before enrolling.
9. South College – Nashville, Tennessee
Students who prefer the Nashville metropolitan area may investigate South College’s current campus offerings. However, campus availability and professional programme accreditation should be verified separately.
A physical therapy programme must meet the appropriate educational and accreditation standards for the career pathway a student intends to pursue. A campus offering other healthcare degrees does not necessarily offer an accredited DPT programme.
Programme: Confirm whether a DPT programme is currently available at the Nashville campus.
Questions applicants should ask:
- Is the programme accepting new students?
- What degree will graduates receive?
- Does the programme hold the required accreditation?
- Are clinical placements available through established healthcare partners?
- What are the tuition, fees, and expected completion time?
These checks are especially important for students who plan to apply for professional licensure after graduation.
10. University of Memphis – Memphis and Jackson, Tennessee
The University of Memphis is a public university with its main campus in Memphis and a Lambuth campus in Jackson. Students interested in rehabilitation-related careers can investigate its current academic offerings.
However, prospective applicants should distinguish between general health sciences, pre-health preparation, and a professional DPT degree. Only the appropriate qualifying education, together with the other licensing requirements, prepares a graduate to apply for physical therapist licensure.
Programme: Confirm current DPT availability and location before applying.
Typical DPT admission requirements, where applicable, include:
- A qualifying bachelor’s degree.
- Completion of required prerequisite coursework.
- A competitive academic record.
- Submission of the required application and transcripts.
- Compliance with programme-specific admission and clinical education policies.
Students should verify the programme’s current status, application availability, and accreditation directly with the institution before making educational or financial commitments.
Physical Therapist Assistant Schools in Tennessee
A Doctor of Physical Therapy degree is not the only way to enter the rehabilitation field. Students interested in becoming physical therapist assistants can investigate accredited associate-degree programmes.
Physical therapist assistants work under the direction and supervision of physical therapists, helping implement treatment plans and supporting patients during rehabilitation. They do not have the same scope of practice as licensed physical therapists.
11. Chattanooga State Community College – Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga State Community College is an institution to investigate for students interested in an associate-level physical therapist assistant pathway.
PTA education typically combines classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and supervised clinical experiences. Students learn about therapeutic exercise, patient mobility, rehabilitation procedures, and safe patient handling.
Programme: Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), subject to current programme availability.
Typical admission requirements:
- A high school diploma or equivalent.
- Completion of any required prerequisite courses.
- Submission of academic records and application materials.
- Satisfaction of programme selection requirements.
- Health documentation and other clearances required for clinical placements.
Applicants should confirm that the programme is currently accepting students and holds the appropriate accreditation.
12. Roane State Community College – Tennessee
Roane State Community College is another institution students may investigate when comparing community college healthcare programmes in Tennessee.
Before considering it for PTA education, prospective students should verify whether a qualifying physical therapist assistant programme is currently offered and available for their intended entry year.
Typical PTA admission requirements, where applicable, include:
- A high school diploma or equivalent.
- Completion of required prerequisite courses.
- Academic transcripts and a complete application.
- Any programme-specific selection requirements.
- Health records, background checks, and clinical placement clearances.
Students should compare programme duration, tuition, clinical education arrangements, and eligibility for state licensure.
13. Volunteer State Community College – Gallatin, Tennessee
Volunteer State Community College is an option to investigate for students interested in community college education and healthcare careers in the Nashville region.
Applicants should confirm the college’s current PTA offerings before treating it as an available route into the profession. Not every community college with healthcare programmes offers an accredited physical therapist assistant degree.
Typical admission requirements for an accredited PTA programme include:
- A high school diploma or equivalent.
- Required prerequisite coursework.
- Submission of transcripts and application documents.
- Satisfaction of any competitive selection process.
- Compliance with clinical placement and professional requirements.
A prospective student should also ask about examination eligibility, programme outcomes, and graduate employment opportunities.
14. Southwest Tennessee Community College – Memphis, Tennessee
Southwest Tennessee Community College is an institution students may investigate when exploring healthcare education in Memphis.
Students interested in becoming physical therapist assistants should first establish whether the college currently offers an accredited PTA programme. This is an important step because an unrelated healthcare qualification will not automatically satisfy PTA education requirements.
Typical admission requirements for an appropriate programme include:
- A high school diploma or equivalent.
- Completion of the specified prerequisites.
- Submission of academic records and an application.
- Any required programme assessment or selection process.
- Compliance with clinical education requirements.
Before enrolling, confirm the current programme title, accreditation, admission availability, and eligibility for the relevant licensing examination.
General Admission Requirements for Physical Therapy Schools in Tennessee
Although each institution establishes its own admission policies, several requirements commonly apply to students pursuing physical therapy education.
1. Educational Qualifications
Students entering a DPT programme generally need to complete a bachelor’s degree before starting professional study. A bachelor’s degree in exercise science, biology, kinesiology, or a related field may provide useful preparation, but many programmes accept different undergraduate majors if the required prerequisites are satisfied.
PTA programmes typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, together with any specified prerequisite courses.
2. Prerequisite Courses
DPT applicants commonly need undergraduate coursework in subjects such as:
- Human anatomy and physiology.
- Biology.
- General chemistry.
- Physics.
- Statistics.
- Psychology and other behavioural sciences.
The precise subjects, credit hours, laboratory requirements, and acceptable course grades differ by institution. Students should review the prerequisite list for each programme before registering for courses.
3. GPA Requirements
Physical therapy programmes can be competitive. Admissions teams may evaluate overall undergraduate GPA, prerequisite GPA, science GPA, and academic performance over time.
Meeting a minimum GPA does not guarantee admission. Applicants can improve their competitiveness by earning strong grades in relevant courses and submitting a complete, well-prepared application.
4. Clinical Observation and Healthcare Experience
Some DPT programmes require or recommend observation hours or experience in physical therapy settings. This exposure helps applicants understand the profession, observe patient interactions, and appreciate the responsibilities of rehabilitation practitioners.
Applicants should check whether observation hours are compulsory, whether different clinical settings are accepted, and what documentation must be submitted.
5. Application Documents
Depending on the school, applicants may need official transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statements, a résumé, or an interview.
Many DPT programmes use the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS), although applicants should verify the application process specified by each institution.
6. English Language Proficiency
International students may need to demonstrate English proficiency if their previous education does not meet the institution’s language requirements.
Applicants from outside the United States should also review international transcript evaluation, visa documentation, financial requirements, and any additional admissions policies that apply to them.
7. Health and Clinical Placement Requirements
Physical therapy students often complete clinical placements in healthcare facilities. These placements may require immunisation records, background checks, drug screening, CPR certification, and other documentation.
Students should budget for these requirements in addition to tuition and other educational expenses.
How to Become a Licensed Physical Therapist in Tennessee
To practise as a physical therapist in Tennessee, a student must complete the appropriate professional education and satisfy the state’s licensing requirements.
The typical pathway involves the following steps:
- Complete an undergraduate degree and the prerequisites required by a DPT programme.
- Earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from an appropriately accredited programme.
- Submit an application to the Tennessee Board of Physical Therapy.
- Pass the required National Physical Therapy Examination.
- Meet any additional state licensing requirements.
- Maintain the licence and satisfy applicable renewal and continuing education rules.
Students pursuing PTA careers follow a separate pathway, generally involving an accredited PTA programme and the required examination and state licensing process.
Importantly, graduating from a general health science programme does not, by itself, qualify someone to practise as a physical therapist. Prospective students should verify the current state requirements before selecting a school.
How to Choose the Best Physical Therapy School in Tennessee
Accreditation
Accreditation should be one of your first considerations. Confirm that the specific DPT or PTA programme meets the applicable professional accreditation requirements. If a programme is newly established or pursuing accreditation, investigate how its status affects students and future licensure eligibility.
Tuition and Total Cost
Compare tuition, mandatory fees, books, laboratory expenses, accommodation, transportation, and clinical placement costs. A school with lower tuition may not necessarily have the lowest overall cost.
Location
Consider whether you prefer studying in Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Johnson City, or another part of Tennessee. Location can affect accommodation costs, transport, and access to clinical placements.
Clinical Education
Ask about the programme’s clinical education structure, placement support, and opportunities to work with different patient populations. Practical training is essential to developing the skills required for professional practice.
Admission Competitiveness
Compare prerequisite requirements, minimum GPAs, published admission statistics, and application deadlines. Apply to programmes that match your academic background and professional goals.
Career Goals
Decide whether you want to become a physical therapist or a physical therapist assistant. The educational requirements, professional responsibilities, programme duration, and licensing pathways differ.
Comparison Table: Physical Therapy Schools in Tennessee
| Institution | Location | Programme to investigate | Typical educational pathway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Belmont University | Nashville | DPT | Bachelor’s degree and prerequisites |
| East Tennessee State University | Johnson City | DPT | Bachelor’s degree and prerequisites |
| Tennessee State University | Nashville | DPT | Bachelor’s degree and prerequisites |
| University of Tennessee at Chattanooga | Chattanooga | DPT | Bachelor’s degree and prerequisites |
| University of Tennessee Health Science Center | Memphis | DPT | Bachelor’s degree and prerequisites |
| South College | Knoxville | DPT | Bachelor’s degree and programme prerequisites |
| Lincoln Memorial University | Harrogate | Physical therapy education | Verify current degree offering |
| Freed-Hardeman University | Henderson | Physical therapy pathway | Verify current degree offering |
| South College – Nashville | Nashville | Physical therapy education | Verify campus-specific offering |
| University of Memphis | Memphis/Jackson | Physical therapy pathway | Verify current programme availability |
| Chattanooga State Community College | Chattanooga | PTA pathway | High school diploma and prerequisites |
| Roane State Community College | Tennessee | PTA pathway | Verify current programme offering |
| Volunteer State Community College | Gallatin | PTA pathway | Verify current programme offering |
| Southwest Tennessee Community College | Memphis | PTA pathway | Verify current programme offering |
This comparison is a preliminary research guide, not confirmation that every institution currently offers an accredited DPT or PTA programme. Confirm the exact degree, campus, accreditation status, and current admissions availability before applying.
Related
Conclusion
Tennessee offers several educational opportunities for people interested in physical therapy and rehabilitation. Students who want to become licensed physical therapists should focus on qualifying Doctor of Physical Therapy programmes, while those seeking an assistant-level career should investigate accredited Physical Therapist Assistant programmes.
The best school for you will depend on your academic qualifications, financial resources, preferred location, and long-term career plans. Compare admission requirements, prerequisites, tuition, clinical education, and accreditation before making your final choice.
Most importantly, verify that your chosen programme meets the professional education requirements for the career you intend to pursue. Careful planning can help you select a suitable physical therapy school in Tennessee and take the next step towards a rewarding healthcare career.