If you want to be a physical therapist, you should know how long it takes. Becoming one can take around 7 to 8 years. First, you need to finish high school. Next, you must earn a bachelor’s degree at a university. Finally, you will need to complete a doctorate in physical therapy. The good part is that many online degrees are available!
To become a physical therapist, you must pass exams and get licensed. This article will explain what you need to know about how long the process takes to become a physical therapist!
What Are The Initial Steps To Becoming A Physical Therapist?
Being a physical therapist is an interesting and rewarding job. It can also pay well with high salaries. However, it is difficult. You need several years of higher education to qualify for this profession.
- The first step to becoming a physical therapist is to graduate from a good physical therapy program. A CAPTE-accredited program is preferred and can be in person at your school or online.
- Next, you need to pass the NPTE exam from the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).
- After that, you apply to PT schools using PTCAS, the main application service used by over 90% of schools offering DPT degrees.
- PTCAS stands for “Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service”. If you want to apply to a public or government-funded PT program, you must use this service.
- Once you get into a physical therapy school, you need to finish all your courses. This usually takes about two years.
- After completing your courses, the next step is to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
- The last step is to apply for a license through your state’s physical therapy licensing board.
Explanation Of How Many Years To Become A Physical Therapist
To become a physical therapist, you need to complete a long journey of several degrees and get licensed. Each degree takes a different amount of time. So, how many years it takes to become a physical therapist depends on the total time for all the required degrees. The key degrees you must finish to become a physical therapist are:
A Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy, called the Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy (BSPT), usually takes three to four years to finish. This program looks at important subjects, like biomechanics.
- The study of PT is a four-year undergraduate program. In the first two years, students learn in the classroom. They take courses in biology, chemistry, toxicology, biodynamics, and anatomy.
- Students develop core skills in human structure and function, sports medicine research methods, and the treatment of back problems and running injuries.
- There are clinical opportunities on campus for practice. We also offer clinical rotations to help future graduates gain experience.
- For those who want to work as clinical physiotherapists right after graduation, we have programs with the University of Western States (UWS) that offer distance education.
- Some students may choose to continue their studies beyond their bachelor’s degree if they want.
The Doctor of Physical Therapy, known as DPT, is a doctoral degree in physical therapy. It is a post-professional program that takes three years to finish. During this time, students receive a lot of training in biomechanics.
- To start in this field, you need an undergraduate degree in the physical sciences. This usually takes four years to finish.
- A Doctor of Physical Therapy degree has three levels of professional training.
- The levels, from entry-level certification to advanced post-licensure education and fellowship, include:
- A diploma or a transcript that shows you have finished an accredited PATH® program in the United States, Canada, or South Africa. Your certification should be recognized by CRPO® and must include specialties like orthopedics (SPA), cardiopulmonary (APC), neurology (NLA), or geriatrics (AGX).
- A total of 54 credits that you successfully pass at the undergraduate level. This is important for completing an accredited graduate program.
- A full-time clinical practice of two years after getting your license. This practice must be supervised by a certified physical therapist or someone with a similar degree.
- You can earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy at several schools around the United States. Notable institutions include Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis, Saginaw Valley State University’s College of Education, and the Department of Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy at UW-Whitewater or UW-Eau Claire. Other schools to consider are Udacity, Columbia, CCNY, and New York University (NYU), as well as Case Western Reserve.
To become a physical therapist, you usually need about seven years of schooling. This includes four years for a Bachelor of Science in physical therapy and three years for a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.
However, the time can change based on the school. For instance, some schools might take five years for the bachelor’s program instead of four. Similarly, some may offer a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in four years instead of three.
Physical Therapy School: A proceeding Education
A good physical therapy (PT) program should always teach about nutrition and exercise. Choosing a PT school that covers these topics is the best choice. This way, you will be ready for all parts of your future career. It is more than just what you may learn during clinical placements.
Many schools offer an elective course called “Healthy Living.” This course includes lessons about nutrition and exercise. However, students should learn this information throughout their time in school. They should apply their skills to real-life situations. If schools only teach this through electives or single classes, students may not be as attractive to employers.
This is because many hospitals and clinics provide free information through seminars. Schools that require students to attend and practice this knowledge during the school year will create better graduates. These graduates will be ready for their future jobs.
Who Needs To Become A Physical Therapist?
The PT profession is a great option for people who enjoy helping others. If you like the medical field, this could be right for you. It lets you make a difference in the lives of people who are recovering from accidents or injuries. This career is also good for those who prefer not to work under pressure or in busy settings.
If you don’t want to do physical therapy, here are some other careers to think about:
- Occupational therapist
- Athletic trainer
- Physician assistant
- Chiropractor
A physical therapist needs to have a bachelor of science degree. This usually takes four years to complete. Additionally, they must be certified by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). Most states require physical therapists to have a license, as the Association states.
What Is The Career Outlook Of A Physical Therapist
The future looks bright for full-time, part-time, and temporary jobs in this field.
Physical therapists help people fix issues with movement and muscles caused by injury, sickness, or getting older. To become an occupational therapist, you will need extra training in psychology.
Opportunities for physical therapists are expected to rise by 33 percent by 2026. This is much faster than the growth for all jobs. The demand comes from more people needing care and the focus on keeping older people healthy.
Older adults often have issues with mobility, leading them to see physical therapists. The Bureau estimates that 10 jobs will open every year. This is because of retirements and other reasons, which means there will be room for recent graduates to take these jobs.
Physical therapists can make between $79,590 and $106,610 each year. This is about $13.13 to $17.87 per hour. The median salary for this job is $88,630. Physical therapists earn, on average, 2 to 3 times more than many other jobs in the U.S. The job outlook for this field looks good for the future. If you want to start your career now, it’s a great time to do so!
Exploring the Work Environment and Duties of a Physical Therapist
The work environment for a physical therapist (PT) is different and active. It is influenced by where they work. PTs can be in several places like hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, or even at patients’ homes.
Each place has its own challenges and benefits. In hospitals, they usually work with a team, including doctors and nurses, to create treatment plans. On the other hand, in outpatient clinics, PTs often build long-term relationships with patients. They can follow their progress over time and change treatment strategies if needed.
Physical therapists do many important things to help patients get better and stay healthy. They work with people of all ages. First, they check how well patients’ bodies are working. Then, they make custom treatment plans. They also teach exercises that help improve mobility and lessen pain.
In addition to this, they inform patients and their families about how recovery works. They explain how to prevent future issues so everyone knows their part in getting healthy. This job shows how important it is to have good treatment plans. It also shows that caring communication is key. Physical therapists need to inspire and support their patients as they go through rehab.
Duties and Responsibilities in Physical Therapy
To become a physical therapist, you usually need about 7 to 8 years. First, you need to get a bachelor’s degree. Next, you will complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. Then, you will also gain clinical experience.
After you graduate, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination to get your license. Sometimes, the timeline can change based on specialization or residency programs. Overall, people who want to enter this field spend a lot of time and effort on their education, starting with their bachelor’s degree.
Understanding the Work Schedules and Settings
Understanding the work of physical therapists shows this job is flexible and offers variety. Most physical therapists work full-time, but many also work part-time, especially in outpatient settings.
Depending on where they work and how many patients they have, therapists can have flexible hours. This can mean working evenings and weekends. This flexibility helps them care for their patients’ needs while balancing their own work and life.
Work settings for physical therapists can change how they usually go about their day. In hospitals, PTs usually work in a busy place. They see many patients with different health issues every day. Physical therapists in private practice or rehabilitation centers may have a more routine.
They focus more on spending time with one patient at a time which helps them connect better. Some physical therapists also go to patients’ homes. This home healthcare can feel more personal and special. No matter where they work, physical therapists help people get better and improve their quality of life.
The Financial and Educational Investment in Physical Therapy
Becoming a physical therapist takes a lot of time and money. If you want to earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, you should know that it can cost between $70,000 and over $120,000. The cost depends on where you go to school. You also need to think about how much you spend on your undergraduate education, books, and fees for tests to get your license.
The financial part can feel heavy, but it’s important to remember that physical therapists earn good salaries. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says that the median annual wage for physical therapists is about $99,710. As they gain experience and specialize, their salaries can go even higher.
Investing in education and training is very important for applicants who want a career in physical therapy. It costs money, but students also need to spend several years on hard work in school and practice. A DPT program usually takes three years after getting a bachelor’s degree.
During this time, students learn through coursework, clinical rotations, and practical practice. This training helps physical therapists manage patient care well and keep up with the latest updates in their field. For people who really want to help others and grow in their jobs, the investment in their education and training will lead to great job opportunities and stable income.
The Cost of Physical Therapy Education
The cost of physical therapy education is a big worry for many people who want to become PTs. Tuition for Doctor of Physical Therapy programs can differ a lot. Some programs may even cost over $120,000 for the whole time you are studying.
Prospective students should think about other costs too, like textbooks, supplies, and living expenses. These can add a lot more money to the total cost. There are options for financial aid, such as scholarships, grants, and loans. It is very important for students to look into all the ways to pay for their education.
A career in physical therapy can be very rewarding, even if it costs a lot. The median annual wage for physical therapists is about $99,710, which offers a good return on what you spend.
The need for physical therapy services is expected to grow a lot in the next few years. With different salaries that depend on years of experience, job stability and chances to move up in this field look bright. Graduates who manage their education costs and get their license will be in a great place for a satisfying and well-paying job.
Licenses, Certifications, and Important Qualities
To become a physical therapist, you need to get the right licenses and certifications. Every state in the U.S. requires a state license for physical therapists. This means you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). This test checks your knowledge of physical therapy principles. It ensures that only qualified people can practice.
Some physical therapists might also want to get board certification from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. This type of certification is available in specialized areas, like orthopedics or pediatrics. Having this certification can improve your job chances and show your skills to future employers.
Certain qualities are very important for success in physical therapy, along with formal qualifications. Strong communication skills matter a lot. Physical therapists (PTs) need to explain complex information to patients and work well with other healthcare professionals.
Compassion and empathy are also key traits. PTs often help people who face physical challenges and emotional stress, aiming to improve their quality of life.
Being detail-oriented is important too. PTs must know the needs of their patients and create good treatment plans. By showing these traits and focusing on learning, physical therapists can give the best care and make a positive impact on their patients’ lives.
Vertex:
It takes several years to become a physical therapist. If you think it varies by school, you might want to think again. A well-known report says most people need around 7 or 8 years of education. The first six years are usually spent in high school and college. After that, you need some time working as a licensed physical therapist before you can practice on your own.
Insights into Physical Therapist Pay and Job Outlook
The future for physical therapists looks good. They have competitive salaries and there’s a strong job outlook. Recent data shows that the average annual salary for physical therapists is about $99,710. This makes it a career choice that can be financially rewarding.
Also, the job outlook is very positive. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a 14% job growth rate from 2023 to 2033. This growth is mainly because of an aging population. There is also a growing focus on non-opioid pain management. This will likely increase the need for physical therapy services.
Geographic factors play a big role in how much a physical therapist earns. States like California, New Jersey, and Nevada usually pay more than other places. This salary difference shows the higher cost of living and the need for healthcare in those states. As the job market for physical therapists grows, they can look forward to both stable income and the satisfaction that comes from helping improve their patients’ quality of life.
State & Area Data for Aspiring Physical Therapists
For people who want to be physical therapists, knowing about state and area jobs can help them see where they can work and how much they can earn. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says there were about 259,200 physical therapist jobs in 2023.
Most of these jobs were in outpatient care centers and hospitals. Larger cities usually have more job chances. But rural areas also need physical therapy services, so there are jobs available there too.
In terms of salary, physical therapists’ pay can vary a lot based on where they work. For example, states like California and New Jersey pay more than the national average.
This is because of the higher cost of living and high demand for healthcare workers in these areas. Aspiring physical therapists should think about these factors when planning their education and careers. Knowing about local job markets can help them make good choices about where to work and build their careers.