Experiences of Underrepresented Racial Minorities in the Entry-Level Physical Therapy Education Application Process:
1Melissa Yeung is the director of Diversity and Belonging in School of Physical Therapy at the Bowling Green State University, 104 Health and Human Services, Bowling Green, OH 43403 ( yeungm@bgsu.edu ). Please address all correspondence to Melissa Yeung.
Journal, Physical Therapy Education
|March 13, 2024
Summary
This study explored the experiences of Black and Latinx students in physical therapy education program (PTEP) admissions. Findings offer insights into recruitment factors and support needs for diverse applicants.
Area of Science:
- Health Sciences
- Education
- Sociology
Background:
- Limited research exists on the applicant perspective in physical therapy education program (PTEP) admissions.
- Existing literature primarily focuses on quantitative admissions data and applicant success metrics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the experiences of Black and Latinx students during the PTEP admissions process.
- To understand how these students derive meaning from their navigation of the admissions journey.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study involving 11 participants recruited from entry-level PTEPs.
- Data collection included demographic surveys and three interviews per participant.
- Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using deductive and inductive coding processes.
Main Results:
- A conceptual model for recruiting Black and Latinx students was developed.
- Key factors identified include early profession introduction, application process challenges, support systems, and enrollment decision influences.
Conclusions:
- This study provides a roadmap for understanding the pathway of Black and Latinx students into physical therapy.
- Findings can inform PTEPs on improving information access and support for prospective students from underrepresented groups.
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