Physical therapy is a growing field that is in high demand, as people are becoming more aware of the importance of maintaining their physical health. Physical therapists help patients recover from injury or illness and manage chronic conditions that limit their mobility. If you’re interested in becoming a physical therapist, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve your goal.
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step to becoming a physical therapist is to earn a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as exercise science, kinesiology, or biology. During your undergraduate studies, you’ll take courses in anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics, which will lay the foundation for your understanding of the human body and how it works. You’ll also take courses in psychology, which will help you understand how to work with patients and help them overcome physical challenges.
Step 2: Complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
Once you’ve completed your undergraduate studies, the next step is to enroll in a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. DPT programs typically take three years to complete and include both classroom and clinical education. During your clinical education, you’ll work with patients under the supervision of licensed physical therapists, giving you hands-on experience in the field.
Step 3: Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)
After completing your DPT program, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to become a licensed physical therapist. The NPTE is a comprehensive exam that covers all aspects of physical therapy, including anatomy, physiology, and therapeutic interventions.
Step 4: Get licensed
After passing the NPTE, you must obtain a license to practice physical therapy in your state. Requirements for licensure vary from state to state, but typically include passing the NPTE, completing an approved DPT program, and meeting any other requirements specified by the state board of physical therapy.
Step 5: Consider Specialization
Physical therapists can specialize in various areas, such as pediatrics, sports medicine, or geriatrics. Specializing in a specific area can help you stand out from other physical therapists and increase your earning potential. To specialize, you’ll need to complete additional coursework and training in your area of interest.
Step 6: Seek Employment
Once you have your license and have completed any necessary specialization, you can start seeking employment as a physical therapist. Physical therapists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private practices, and schools. You can also work in research, teaching, or administration.
Step 7: Stay Current with Continuing Education
Physical therapy is a rapidly evolving field, and it’s important to stay current with the latest techniques and technologies. Most states require physical therapists to complete continuing education courses on a regular basis to maintain their license.
In conclusion, becoming a physical therapist requires a combination of education and hands-on experience. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to a rewarding career helping others improve their physical health and well-being.
How Much Does a Physical Therapist Make?
The salary of a physical therapist can vary depending on several factors such as location, years of experience, and type of employer. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for physical therapists was $89,440 as of May 2020.
Physical therapists working in metropolitan areas typically earn higher salaries than those working in rural areas. In addition, physical therapists who work in private practices or in hospitals tend to earn more than those working in other settings, such as schools or nursing homes.
Experience also plays a role in determining a physical therapist’s salary. Physical therapists with several years of experience typically earn more than those just starting out in the field. Furthermore, physical therapists who have advanced degrees or specialize in a particular area may also earn higher salaries.
It’s important to note that salaries can vary greatly from one location to another, so it’s a good idea to research salaries in your area to get a better idea of what you can expect to earn as a physical therapist. Additionally, it’s important to keep in mind that salaries are only one aspect of a career in physical therapy and that job satisfaction, work-life balance, and opportunities for advancement should also be taken into consideration when choosing a career.
Here’s a table that shows the average annual salary for physical therapists in different regions of the United States, according to the BLS:
| Region | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| New England (CT, ME, MA, NH, RI, VT) | $93,520 |
| Middle Atlantic (NJ, NY, PA) | $93,440 |
| South Atlantic (DE, FL, GA, MD, DC, NC, SC, VA, WV) | $89,560 |
| East South Central (AL, KY, MS, TN) | $83,430 |
| West South Central (AR, LA, OK, TX) | $86,520 |
| East North Central (IL, IN, MI, OH, WI) | $89,320 |
| West North Central (IA, KS, MN, MO, ND, NE, SD) | $87,180 |
| Mountain (AZ, CO, ID, MT, NV, NM, UT, WY) | $91,960 |
| Pacific (AK, CA, HI, OR, WA) | $98,050 |
These figures represent the average annual salary and may not reflect the salaries of all physical therapists in a given region. It’s important to keep in mind that salaries can vary greatly depending on factors such as experience, specialty, and type of employer.
What degree do I need to become a physical therapist?
To become a physical therapist, you need to earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program. Most DPT programs take three years to complete and require a bachelor’s degree in a related field as a prerequisite.
What is the job outlook for physical therapists?
The job outlook for physical therapists is very positive. The BLS projects that employment of physical therapists will grow 25% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to an increasing demand for physical therapy services as the population ages and more people seek treatment for injuries and chronic conditions.
What are the main duties of a physical therapist?
Physical therapists help patients recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve mobility, strength, and balance. They evaluate patients, develop treatment plans, and use a variety of techniques to help patients reach their goals. Physical therapists also educate patients about their conditions and how to prevent future injuries.
How much does a physical therapist make?
The median annual salary for physical therapists was $89,440 as of May 2020, according to the BLS. Salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and type of employer.
What is the certification process for physical therapists?
After earning a DPT degree, physical therapists must pass a licensure exam in order to practice. In addition, many physical therapists choose to earn certification in a specialty area, such as sports or geriatrics, to demonstrate their expertise and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in their field.
What kind of work environment can I expect as a physical therapist?
Physical therapists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, schools, and more. The work environment is typically fast-paced and physically demanding, as physical therapists are often required to lift and move patients. However, many physical therapists find the work rewarding and enjoy helping their patients improve their quality of life.