How Long Does it Take to Become a Physical Therapist?

If you’re someone who enjoys working with people and has a passion for health and wellness, becoming a physical therapist could be a great career choice. However, it’s important to know that the path to becoming a physical therapist requires time, dedication, and a lot of hard work. In this article, we’ll explore the timeline and requirements for becoming a physical therapist, from undergraduate studies to post-graduate education and professional practice.

Chronological Breakdown

The first step towards becoming a physical therapist is earning a bachelor’s degree. Most Physical Therapy (PT) programs require applicants to complete specific pre-requisite courses, which typically include biology, anatomy, physiology, and chemistry. In addition, applicants must gain experience by working or volunteering in a relevant environment such as a hospital, clinic, or physical therapy practice. The pre-requisite courses can take 2-4 years to complete depending on part-time or full-time enrollment.

After completing a bachelor’s degree and relevant experience, students must then complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. DPT programs generally take 3 years to complete, but this timeline can vary depending on the structure of the program, student enrollment status, and clinical experiences. During DPT programs, students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through classroom instruction, clinical rotations and internships.

After completing a DPT program, students can choose to pursue a residency program. Residency programs provide additional training and experience in a specific area of expertise. The length of a residency program is typically one year, but can vary depending on the program and specialty area. Additionally, some states require physical therapists to earn additional certifications or licensures before they can practice.

Interviewing Practice Owners

To gain a better understanding of the process of becoming a physical therapist, we spoke to several established practice owners. All the interviewed physical therapists had their own unique journeys to getting to where they are today. One common thread was that all of the practice owners emphasized the importance of gaining clinical experience, obtaining certifications and dedicating time to continuing education to stay up-to-date with advancements in the field.

Throughout their careers, some of the interviewed physical therapists decided to specialize in a specific area of physical therapy such as pediatrics, sports injuries or neurology. The decision to specialize is often driven by personal interest and long-term career goals. Many physical therapists also decide to open their practices and play a central role in guiding patients on the path to wellness.

Infographic

Our colorful infographic provides an overview of the educational milestones and financial prospects of becoming a physical therapist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for physical therapists was $89,440 in 2020. The infographic also lists some of the varied specializations within the field. For instance, sports physical therapists work with athletes to prevent and treat injuries, while pediatric physical therapists work with children with disabilities or developmental delays.

Real-Life Story

Julia, a physical therapist in training, shares her personal anecdotes, struggles, and successes throughout her journey to becoming a PT. Julia emphasizes the importance of developing strong communication skills and empathy to build meaningful relationships with patients. Additionally, she notes the importance of finding a mentor or support system during the rigorous coursework and practical experience of a DPT program.

Comparison with other careers

The field of physical therapy offers a unique blend of science and compassion, and provides numerous career opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, physical therapy employment is projected to grow 22% from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. In terms of salary, physical therapy falls in the middle range of healthcare professions, with salaries similar to occupational therapists and speech therapists. Compared to high paying jobs like finance or engineering, physical therapy has a lower median salary, but offers the opportunity to form meaningful connections with patients and positively impact their lives.

Q&A with Professionals in the Field

We asked professionals in the field some common questions potential physical therapists may have. They stressed the importance of understanding the concept of wellness as a concept and not just rehabilitating patients which physical therapists are generally associated with. The professionals also recommended that interested individuals should talk to those already in the program or working in the field to learn more about the daily realities of working as a physical therapist. They also emphasized the importance of keeping up-to-date with advancements in the field, building meaningful connections with patients and seeking ongoing professional development opportunities.

Conclusion

Becoming a physical therapist requires commitment and dedication. A path that starts with completing pre-requisite courses, then attending a DPT program and completing additional residencies and certifications. However, for those who are willing to put in the effort, a career as a physical therapist can be both highly rewarding and fulfilling.