1. Interview Process: The interview is a required, scored admissions activity used to evaluate the verbal/nonverbal communication, the understanding of the profession of physical therapy, and group interaction skills of the student. These are important abilities in the Problem-Based Learning professional program. A writing sample is done during the interview process, which is used to evaluate writing ability. References are another method used to determine a student's preparation for the graduate physical therapy program. Three reference forms are available upon request. One of the three references should be from a physical therapist.
2. Direct observation of physical therapists working in a variety of settings is recommended.  A minimum of 80 documented hours is required for application.
3. Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores will be considered in the admission process.
4. Students whose native language is not English are required to submit a TOEFL paper-based score of at least 600, TOEFL computer-based score of at least 250, or a TOEFL web-based score of at least 100.

Admission Process

Students, who are completing their degrees at WJU, must have a 3.0 GPA and have completed all required courses with a C or better, in order to receive an interview for the professional program. The prerequisites are described in the graduate catalog. Upon successful completion of the interview, the student will be invited to enter the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program.

Although WJU students are given priority, seats are available for students from other colleges or universities who meet the above requirements.

Competition will be based on requisite and cumulative grade point averages, GRE scores, interview, and references.

Classes will be begin on campus in September of each year unless notified differently. Applications will be reviewed on their individual merit. Interviews will be scheduled for qualified applicants beginning nine months prior to the beginning of the professional session. Early application submission is recommended to ensure acceptance. Applicants will be notified in writing of full or conditional acceptance into the program, placement on a waiting list, or rejection within a month of their interview date.

Application Procedure

Application packets can be obtained by contacting the Department of Physical Therapy at 866-243-2068.

Complete applications consist of the following items which are to be sent directly to the Department of Physical Therapy:

1. Application form along with the non-refundable application fee of $25.00 made payable to Wheeling Jesuit University.
2. All official college/university transcripts.
3. Essay - Comment about your unique life experiences and community service which have helped you develop strong morals and ethics and has given you leadership skills.
4. Resume - Include a resume in the format outlined in "Guidelines for Preparing the Resume."
5. Graduate school test scores (GRE).
6. Three letters of recommendation. One must be from a physical therapist, the other two from academic sources.  Recommendation forms are also available upon request.
7. Verification letter(s) attesting to completion of 80 observation/volunteer hours in a clinic or hospital.