Clinical Education


Maryville affiliates with over 220 physical therapy clinical sites in the United States. Students complete a total of 40 weeks of clinical education in a variety of settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities, school settings and rehab centers.

Students in the Physical Therapy Program are required to have physical examinations, be current on all vaccinations, be certified in CPR for adult, infant, and child and have annual TB-Tuberculin PPD tests. Flu vaccines are required. Other immunization requirements may be needed depending upon a clinical facility’s requirements. Prior to participation in clinicals, students must provide proof of health insurance and must undergo criminal background checks and urine drug screens.

Upon completion of all academic coursework, you will spend approximately 30 full-time weeks on clinical experiences where you will be expected to accept responsibility in the examination and treatment of patients in a variety of clinical settings under the supervision of a qualified physical therapist. Successful completion of the program does not guarantee that you will pass the licensure exam and practice as a physical therapist.

Other requirements for physical therapy practice vary from state to state according to physical therapy practice acts or state regulations governing physical therapy. A state board may refuse to issue a license for specific reasons related to moral turpitude, intemperate use of alcohol or drugs, conviction of a crime or failure to pay child support.