Why does APTA advocate a postbaccalaureate degree?
A postbaccalaureate degree allows the student to obtain a broad background in the liberal arts and provides time for students to integrate the significant amount of material included in a physical therapy curriculum. Also, for those who currently possess a bachelor’s degree in another area, it is a logical choice to progress to a postbaccalaureate degree. Over the years the volume of scientific technology and literature included in physical therapist education programs has grown well beyond what can be reasonably included in a baccalaureate degree program. APTA believes that a postbaccalaureate program more adequately prepares the graduate to meet the expectations of the profession and the health care needs of society. In addition, as of January 1, 2002, the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) no longer accredits baccalaureate professional programs.
