Pre-Physical Therapy

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Health, Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences

Dr. Gary Kastello, Advisor
368 Maxwell Hall (507.457.5219)
Email: gkastello@winona.edu

Dr. Kent Hanson, Advisor
377B Maxwell Hall (507.457.5217)
Email: khansen@winona.edu

Program Information

The Health, Exercise, and Rehabilitative Sciences (HERS) department provides additional opportunities for pre-physical therapy majors via the HERS - Exercise & Rehabilitative Sciences - Movement Science (ERMS) - BS Major . Without exception, admission into physical therapy requires a bachelor’s degree. The bachelor’s degree needs to meet prerequisites for a graduate physical therapy program. These prerequisites include a well-rounded offering of courses from the natural and life sciences, and movement science. Within the 120 credits needed to graduate from WSU, the Movement Science major is specifically designed to meet the prerequisites for doctoral physical therapy programs. In addition to the core courses in HERS, each student has an option to develop an appropriate movement science research project. The specifically designed curriculum coupled with undergraduate research experience places these students in an excellent position for matriculation into the physical therapy graduate program of their choice. Additional courses within the Movement Science major prepare students for the GRE exam which is required to apply to graduate school programs. Movement Science courses and related club involvement fulfill other physical therapy graduate application requirements (shadowing, volunteerism, community involvement, and hands-on experiences with special populations). To declare a major in Movement Science, students must have a 3.0 or better cumulative GPA. To continue in the program of study, students must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA.

Drs. Gary Kastello and Kent Hansen are available to advise students on career opportunities in physical therapy. Dr. Kastello has an MS degree in Exercise Physiology, a PhD in Biological Science, and two years of teaching experience in the Indiana University/Purdue University-Indianapolis Physical Therapy Department. Dr. Hansen has an MS degree in Exercise Physiology and a PhD in Nutritional Science.