What Education Is Needed to Become a Physical Therapist

Introduction

Becoming a physical therapist involves a structured educational journey that prepares individuals to help patients improve mobility, manage pain, and enhance quality of life. Critical to entering this profession is obtaining the appropriate academic and clinical qualifications. In this article, we explore the necessary steps and educational requirements, from undergraduate study to advanced doctoral training and licensure, needed to embark on a rewarding career as a physical therapist.

Educational Pathway to Physical Therapy

What degree do most physical therapists have?

To practice as a physical therapist in the U.S., most individuals earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program. These DPT programs typically last three years, and candidates must hold a bachelor's degree prior to admission.

Common undergraduate majors for aspiring physical therapists include exercise science, biology, or kinesiology. These programs often cover essential prerequisite courses in areas such as anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and physics, which lay a strong foundation for the advanced studies in a DPT program.

Upon completing their DPT degree, graduates must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to obtain their license, which allows them to practice as physical therapists. In addition to the NPTE, some states may have additional licensure requirements, such as law exams or background checks.

Overview of Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree

The DPT program is rigorous, covering key subjects like biomechanics, neuroscience, and pharmacology, and includes extensive clinical training. Students typically engage in 22 weeks of clinical experience during their final phase of education, which is critical for hands-on skill development.

Licensure Examination

After earning the DPT degree, candidates must pass the NPTE. This exam is essential for becoming a licensed physical therapist and is a standardized measure of a candidate's competency in essential physical therapy knowledge and skills. Following licensure, many physical therapists opt to pursue further specialization through residency or fellowship programs to enhance their expertise and job prospects.

Admission Criteria for DPT Programs

What GPA do you need for PT school?

To gain admission to physical therapy (PT) school, applicants typically need a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. This benchmark ensures students have a solid academic foundation—critical for the rigorous DPT curriculum. A bachelor’s degree in related fields such as Biology, Health Science, Kinesiology, or Exercise Science is often recommended.

Common prerequisite courses

Most DPT programs require applicants to complete specific prerequisite courses, which may include:

• Anatomy
• Physiology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Statistics
• Psychology
  Meeting these prerequisites is crucial for ensuring you have the necessary background knowledge for success in the DPT program.

Necessary experience and tests

In addition to academic qualifications, many programs also require approximately 40 hours of observation in a physical therapy setting. This experience helps familiarize applicants with the profession. Many programs may also request scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), along with strong letters of reference and a personal statement, which form a vital part of the application package. Given the competitive nature of PT school admissions, fulfilling these requirements is essential for prospective students.

Licensure and Certification

What are the licensure requirements for physical therapists?

To become a licensed physical therapist, you must earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). This standardized test evaluates your knowledge and skills necessary for safe practice. Furthermore, each state has its own eligibility criteria, which may include requirements such as passing a jurisprudence exam that focuses on state laws and regulations relevant to physical therapy.

It's crucial to apply with your specific state's licensing authority to ensure you meet all necessary requirements. Some states may require additional documentation or background checks. Notably, the Physical Therapy Compact allows licensed physical therapists to practice in multiple states without needing individual licenses, significantly broadening work opportunities.

State-specific requirements

When pursuing licensure, it's essential to be aware that certain states may impose additional requirements aside from the NPTE, including:

• Specific clinical internship hours
• Background checks
• Continuing education requirements for renewal

Prospective physical therapists are advised to check with their state licensing authority for up-to-date information on initial licensure and ongoing renewal requirements, especially as these can change.

Optional certifications for career advancement

While board certification is not mandatory, obtaining optional certifications can significantly enhance a physical therapist's career. Achieving board certification requires:

• A DPT degree
• At least 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience
• Successfully passing a specialized certification exam

Board certification can lead to increased job prospects, potential salary boosts, and recognition as a specialist in areas such as orthopedics, pediatrics, or sports physical therapy. It can also facilitate networking opportunities and professional growth within the physical therapy community.

Duration and Structure of Educational Programs

How long does it take to become a physical therapist?

To become a physical therapist in the U.S., it typically takes about 7 years of education. This includes 4 years to earn a bachelor's degree and an additional 3 years to complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. The DPT curriculum covers essential subjects such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and clinical reasoning.

Admission to DPT programs is competitive, often requiring specific prerequisite courses like chemistry, biology, and physics, a minimum GPA, and experience volunteering or working with patients under a licensed physical therapist. Once students earn their DPT degree, they must pass a state licensure exam to practice.

Structure of DPT programs

DPT programs are designed to provide students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The structure typically includes:

• Coursework: This phase focuses on critical subjects necessary for physical therapy, including pharmacology, neuroscience, and interventions in rehabilitation.
• Clinical internships: Students spend a significant portion of their training (averaging 22 weeks) in clinical settings, where they apply their knowledge and develop hands-on experience in patient care.

A table summarizing the education journey to become a physical therapist is as follows:

In conclusion, both the length and structured approach to physical therapy education ensure that graduates are well-prepared for their roles in improving patient health and quality of life.

Prerequisites for Physical Therapy Programs

What are the prerequisites for entering a physical therapy program?

To enter a physical therapy program, applicants must complete a range of prerequisite coursework. This typically includes:

• Anatomy (with lab)
• Physiology (with lab)
• Biology (two courses)
• General Chemistry (two courses)
• General Physics (two courses)
• Psychology
• Statistics
  There's no specific required undergraduate major; however, many students opt for fields that align well with these prerequisites, such as exercise science, biology, kinesiology, or psychology.

Admission into these programs is competitive, often necessitating a minimum GPA, GRE scores, and letters of recommendation. Additionally, candidates are usually expected to have a significant amount of volunteer or observational experience working under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist, which helps strengthen their application. Coursework in social and behavioral sciences may also enhance a profile. It’s essential for prospective students to verify the prerequisites of individual programs, as they can vary and change over time.

Overview of common undergraduate majors

While students can technically choose any major, opting for related fields can be beneficial. Common undergraduate majors for aspiring physical therapists include:

By selecting majors that align with physical therapy prerequisites, students can better prepare themselves for the rigor of graduate-level programs.

Career Prospects for Physical Therapists

What are the career prospects for a physical therapist?

The career prospects for physical therapists are exceptionally promising. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a job growth rate of 14% from 2023 to 2033, which significantly outpaces the average growth rate for all occupations. As of May 2023, the median annual wage for physical therapists stands at $99,710. However, those working in outpatient care centers can see even higher earnings, with a mean annual wage of approximately $123,900.

Most positions in this field require a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, underscoring the necessity of advanced education. Physical therapists typically work in a variety of settings, which primarily includes:

• Outpatient settings
• Hospitals
• Home healthcare

These professionals play a crucial role in helping patients improve movement and manage pain effectively.

With around 259,200 jobs available in the country and an aging population contributing to the growing demand for rehabilitation services, the outlook for this profession continues to be very positive.

Work Settings and Opportunities

Physical therapists have diverse job opportunities across multiple sectors. The primary settings they find employment in are:

This diversity in work settings allows physical therapists to specialize in various areas, such as sports medicine, geriatrics, or pediatrics, making their careers both fulfilling and rewarding.

Conclusion

As we have explored, becoming a physical therapist requires a robust educational foundation, starting with a bachelor's degree and culminating in a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. The necessity of passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) underscores the importance of a structured academic and experiential learning pathway. With compelling career prospects and a rewarding job outlook, investing in physical therapy education paves the way for a fulfilling and impactful career. Those interested in this pathway are encouraged to carefully evaluate academic programs, understand state-specific licensure requirements, and consider optional specializations to enhance their skills and job prospects.

References

• Becoming a Physical Therapist | APTA
• Physical Therapist - Explore Health Care Careers
• How to Become a Physical Therapist in 6 Steps | USAH
• How to Become a Physical Therapist | Saint Joseph's University
• How to Become a Physical Therapist: 2025 Step-By-Step Guide
• What Degree Does a Physical Therapist Need? | All Allied Health ...
• Becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant - APTA
• How To Become A Physical Therapist: 7 Steps
• Physical Therapists : Occupational Outlook Handbook