Use of the interview in admissions

Area of Science:

• Allied Health Education
• Admissions Processes
• Physical Therapy Programs

Background:

• Evaluating nonacademic information is crucial for physical therapy admissions.
• Traditional methods may lack objectivity.
• Standardized processes are needed to assess applicant suitability beyond academic metrics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a method for objectively assessing nonacademic information in physical therapy admissions.
• To outline a structured interview process designed to increase fairness and reliability.

Main Methods:

• Utilized interviewer training sessions and simulated videotaped interviews.
• Implemented specific criteria to support interview ratings and an arbitration procedure.
• Conducted frequent admission committee meetings to define interview areas and rating criteria.

Main Results:

• The described method enhances the objectivity of the admissions interview.
• Key strengths include structured training, clear criteria, and dispute resolution.
• The process demonstrates adaptability for other allied health programs.

Conclusions:

• The described admission process offers a robust framework for evaluating nonacademic qualifications.
• Its structured approach can improve the fairness and consistency of physical therapy admissions.
• The model's components are transferable to other allied health fields.