Top tips on how to become physical therapist

Interested in becoming a physical therapist? This guide covers the essential steps you need to take, from obtaining the right education and passing vital exams to securing state licensure and optional further training. Read on to discover how to become a physical therapist and learn how become physical therapist to start a rewarding career in healthcare.

Key Takeaways

• Aspiring physical therapists must complete a bachelor’s degree in a related field before applying to a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.
• Graduating from a CAPTE-accredited DPT program and passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) are necessary steps to obtain state licensure.
• Physical therapists enjoy a promising job outlook with a median annual salary of approximately $99,710, and must engage in continuing education to maintain licensure and stay current in the field.

Earn a Bachelor's Degree in a Related Field

A successful physical therapy career starts with earning a bachelor’s degree in a related field, which equips you with the knowledge and skills needed for advanced studies. Common fields of study for aspiring physical therapists include biology, kinesiology, and exercise science. These areas offer a strong scientific foundation and help you develop expertise in understanding the human body, movement, and health.

Other relevant bachelor’s degree options include athletic training, health administration, biomedical science, and therapeutic recreation. Completing a bachelor’s degree typically takes four years, involving coursework that prepares you for a future doctoral program. This period builds a solid foundation in subjects like biology, anatomy, and kinesiology, often required as prerequisites for DPT programs.

Engaging in lab studies and hands-on experiences during your undergraduate years further enhances your understanding and prepares you for the rigors of a doctoral degree. By graduation, you’ll be well-equipped to advance towards become a physical therapist.

Choose and Apply to a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program

Choosing the right Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is crucial for your career. Select a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) to ensure it meets the necessary quality standards. Factors such as location, cost, and program strengths should also be considered when making your choice.

After identifying programs that align with your goals, the next step is to apply. Many students use the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS) to streamline the application process for multiple CAPTE-accredited programs. This centralized service allows you to submit your application materials, including transcripts and letters of recommendation, in one place, making it easier to manage the application process, as recommended by the American Physical Therapy Association.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements for DPT programs vary, but most require a bachelor’s degree. Common prerequisite courses include anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology. These courses provide a solid foundation in the health sciences, ensuring you are well-prepared for the rigorous doctoral-level coursework.

Most DPT programs also require a minimum GPA and GRE scores. Volunteer or paid work experience under a licensed physical therapist is often necessary, as it demonstrates your commitment and provides valuable exposure to the field.

Other common requirements include letters of recommendation and interviews, and some programs may also conduct criminal background checks to ensure patient safety during clinical rotations.

Program Structure and Duration

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs typically last three years, consisting of academic coursework and practical clinical training in a physical therapy program. The academic portion covers topics like anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and evidence-based practice, including physical therapy programs.

The practical training component includes extensive clinical education, providing hands-on experience in various physical therapy settings for physical therapy students. This combination of classroom instruction and clinical experience prepares graduates for their professional careers.

Graduate from Your DPT Program

Graduating from a CAPTE-accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is a significant milestone. CAPTE accreditation ensures the program meets high standards and prepares students for professional demands.

During the DPT program, you will complete a rigorous curriculum combining academic coursework with practical clinical experience. Common undergraduate majors include exercise science, biology, kinesiology, and psychology. The clinical experience gained is invaluable for applying knowledge in real-world settings and developing effective patient care skills.

Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)

After graduating from your DPT program, the next step is to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). This exam measures the essential entry-level competency required for physical therapists and is critical for obtaining licensure. The NPTE is a comprehensive five-hour exam that tests your knowledge and skills in physical therapy, and it is offered four times a year.

Passing the NPTE is necessary for obtaining your physical therapist license. The passing score is 600, and if you do not pass on your first attempt, you can retake the exam up to six times.

Once you pass the NPTE, you are one step closer to becoming a licensed physical therapist and can then apply for state licensure.

Obtain State Licensure

Obtaining state licensure is the final step to becoming a physical therapist. Licensure is regulated by individual state boards and is mandatory for practicing in the U.S. Each state has specific requirements, which may include additional exams or background checks.

To receive your physical therapist license, you must pass the NPTE and comply with your state’s practice act. This often involves paying a fee and meeting additional state-specific requirements.

Check your state’s requirements before pursuing your license, as some states may have unique regulations. For detailed information, contact the state board of physical therapy.

Optional: Complete a Residency or Fellowship

After obtaining your license, you may choose to further your education and expertise through a residency or fellowship program. These programs offer personalized mentoring and structured learning experiences to enhance patient care skills and expand knowledge in a specific subspecialty.

A clinical residency typically lasts one year and focuses on advancing preparation in a defined area of clinical practice. Completing a residency can increase your chances of passing the American Physical Therapy Association’s (APTA) Specialization Certification exam, providing credentials upon passing.

Pursuing a fellowship further expands your skills and responsibilities in a particular area, such as outpatient clinics or residential care facilities.

Begin Your Physical Therapy Career

With your education, licensure, and optional residency or fellowship completed, you are ready to begin your physical therapy career. Physical therapists work with patients of all ages, improving mobility, managing pain, and enhancing overall functionality. They prescribe treatment plans, ask patients to perform exercises, and show them how to use adaptive equipment.

Physical therapists work in various environments, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, private practices, and a physical therapy setting. They collaborate with a healthcare team, including other therapists, surgeons, doctors, and specialists, to provide comprehensive care. The ultimate goal is to improve patients’ quality of life by enhancing movement ability and overall health. The range of environments where physical therapists varies significantly.

Physical Therapist Salary and Job Outlook

As of May 2023, the median annual salary for physical therapists is approximately $99,710. Salary levels vary based on education, experience, location, and work setting. For example, physical therapists in urban areas or specialized clinics may earn higher salaries than those in rural settings.

The employment outlook for physical therapists is very promising. Demand for physical therapists is projected to grow significantly faster than the average for all occupations over the next decade. An average of about 13,600 job openings is expected each year due to workforce changes and retirements, making physical therapy an attractive and stable career choice.

Continuing Education and Professional Development

Continuing education is crucial for physical therapists to maintain licensure and stay updated with advancements in treatment techniques and practices. Different states have varying requirements, with some requiring up to 40 hours every two years. Continuing education units (CEUs) can be obtained through accredited online platforms offering courses recognized by state licensing boards.

Ongoing professional development ensures that physical therapists provide the highest quality of patient care services.

Summary

In summary, becoming a physical therapist is a rewarding journey that begins with earning a bachelor’s degree in a related field and continues through rigorous education and training. By choosing an accredited DPT program, meeting admission requirements, and completing the program, you lay the groundwork for a successful career. Passing the NPTE and obtaining state licensure are critical steps that certify your competency and allow you to practice as a licensed physical therapist.

Whether you choose to further your education through a residency or fellowship or dive straight into your physical therapy career, the opportunities in this field are vast and fulfilling. As a physical therapist, you have the chance to make a significant impact on your patients’ lives, helping them regain mobility and improve their quality of life. Pursue your passion for physical therapy with dedication and enthusiasm, knowing that your efforts will lead to a meaningful and dynamic career.