Pairing Exercise Science with a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) license
The nationally accredited bachelor’s degree program in Exercise Science at Bowling Green State University prepares students for careers in health, wellness, sport performance and rehabilitation-related fields. It also provides strong preparation for students interested in graduate and professional programs, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, physician assistant studies, medicine and other health-related pathways.
For students interested in physical therapy, BGSU Exercise Science offers an additional opportunity through a formal transfer pathway with Terra State Community College. Eligible Exercise Science students can build on their BGSU coursework and pursue an Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant through Terra State’s accelerated hybrid PTA cohort.
This pathway is designed for students who want to gain an additional applied credential, strengthen hands-on clinical experience and continue progressing toward long-term goals in physical therapy, including potential future study in a Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
Continue your studies
BGSU Exercise Science graduates often pursue advanced degrees and professional programs. Students may continue their studies through:
- Doctor of Physical Therapy
- Master of Athletic Training
- Master of Education with specializations in sport administration and kinesiology
- Other graduate and professional health programs
Students interested in the PTA pathway may apply to Terra State’s Physical Therapist Assistant program through the formal BGSU Exercise Science transfer pathway.
Why pursue the PTA pathway?
- Physical therapy is a hands-on profession. Students who are considering a future Doctor of Physical Therapy program can benefit from applied experience that helps them better understand patient care, rehabilitation settings and the daily work of physical therapy professionals.
- The BGSU Exercise Science to Terra State PTA pathway gives students the opportunity to:
- Gain an additional applied health care credential
- Build clinical experience in physical therapy settings
- Apply exercise science coursework in patient-centered environments
- Strengthen preparation for future graduate or professional study
- Explore the physical therapy profession before pursuing a DPT
- Continue building toward long-term goals in rehabilitation and patient care
- This pathway does not replace the bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science. Instead, it creates an additional opportunity for eligible students to add a PTA credential through Terra State while continuing to build a strong foundation for future physical therapy goals.
Have questions?
- Brian W. Hall, MPT
PTA Program Chair
Dean of Technology, Allied Health & Nursing
Terra State Community College
419.559.2450
bhall01@terra.edu
How to apply to PTA pathway
Eligible BGSU Exercise Science students interested in Terra State’s PTA program should complete the Terra State application process.
- Step 1: Apply to Terra State at terra.edu/apply.
- Step 2: Submit the PTA program application and letter of intent
- Step 3: Participate in interviews, if selected
- Step 4: Watch for acceptance and orientation details
The exercise science program is part of the School of Applied Human Development in the BGSU College of Education and Human Development.
Updated: 06/18/2026 09:14AM