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Physical therapy

What are ways to become a physical therapist ?

therapy physical-therapy physical-therapist physical physicaltherapy
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Donna’s Answer

To become a PT in the United States, you will need to complete an undergrad degree, usually taking 4 years. Then you can apply to PT schools that will then be an additional 2.5-3 years finishing with a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. A DPT is the "entry-level" degree needed to practice physical therapy. Some schools that have DPT programs have "bridge" programs for those who get undergrad degrees at the same school that may decrease the time by a semester or two but often a student has to pre-qualify for those programs and adhere to GPA requirements to keep that pre-qualification. After completing the educational training, you must pass an exam to practice PT in the state in which you want to live.
This sounds like a lot of time, and it is, but it is SO worth it!
Thank you comment icon Hey Donna, I appreciate your response. I Want to focus on helping people just like how my therapist did with me and help people reach certain strengths they didn't know they had. I Really Love the fact that you took your precious time to answer my question! losah
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chloe’s Answer

A PT here in Texas is a required Doctorates. Go to community college and get a basic associates and bachelors degree with the pre reqs needed to get into PT school (a & p I and II, etc)
Thank you comment icon I will use this advice as I prepare for my career. losah
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Emma’s Answer

Hi Losah,

First, you'll need a bachelor's degree, and this is often in a related field like biology or kinesiology (though it doesn't have to be). You just have to make sure you fulfill prerequisite coursework in subjects such as anatomy, physiology, and physics. Subsequently, apply and enroll in a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). These intensive three-year programs blend classroom instruction with hands-on clinical rotations, covering topics ranging from biomechanics to patient care.

During your DPT program, you'll engage in essential clinical experiences, allowing you to gain practical skills and exposure to real patient care settings under the guidance of licensed physical therapists. After graduation, you have to secure state licensure, a process that typically involves passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). Some states may impose additional state-specific requirements. Ongoing professional development is crucial, including pursuing optional specializations and fulfilling continuing education requirements for license renewal. With their DPT degree and licensure, you'll start your career as physical therapist, working in diverse healthcare settings to help patients improve their mobility, manage pain, and enhance their quality of life.
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Case’s Answer

Another option is to see if your state offers PTA (Assistant) to DPT (doctorate) bridge programs. PTA license requires an associates degree (usually 2 years) and the job pays well so you can immerse yourself in the profession while saving for a bridge to the doctoral degree. Bridge programs vary in length but are often shorter and more affordable than the traditional 4+3 year path.
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