Prior to admission to the UTMB professional program in physical therapy the student must first obtain a bachelor's degree. Students enter the UTMB program with a bachelor s degree. During the first year , students complete courses in basic and clinical sciences and learn basic physical therapy evaluation and treatment procedures. Students also are introduced to research methods, health care management, and the legal, ethical and professional aspects of physical therapy. During the second year students study the therapeutic management of patients with musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, developmental, and neurological abnormalities.
Students also plan and conduct a research project under the supervision of faculty.
Most of the third year is devoted to clinical education. Time is also provided for completion of the research project. The UTMB curriculum includes 30 weeks of full-time clinical experiences at a variety of health care facilities throughout Texas and the surrounding states. Relocation to off-campus facilities is at the student's expense. Upon completion of the curriculum, graduates are eligible for licensure as a physical therapist.