So you’re wondering how to become a physical therapist. This could be the first step to a very rewarding career that has an excellent job outlook and room for growth. Physical therapist jobs come with many different career options, ranging from private practice to working in an office to being part of the staff at a hospital or fitness center. The following career information should help you determine how to become a physical therapist and decide whether the job is right for you.
The degrees needed to become a physical therapist vary depending on what your career goals are and how long you’re willing to spend in school. There are some technical school programs for physical therapy that will prepare you for an assistant or a technician job, but if you want to become a true physical therapist, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree. Many people also choose to get a master’s degree in physical therapy, which will open up your career options and increase your salary potentials. The coursework in these degree programs will include biology, chemistry, physics and a variety of other subjects.
The field of physical therapy is highly competitive, so it would be wise to do more than simply pass your classes while you’re in college. It would be wise to complete an internship, get excellent grades and polish your interpersonal skills, so you’ll be ready to deal with patients under stress as well as excel during your job interviews. You should also decide early on what area you want to specialize in, so you can gain skills, knowledge and practice in that area. Areas such as neurology, pediatrics or sports medicine may also have different degree and certification requirements.
Upon graduation, you will need to pass the mandatory licensure exam, and then you can begin seeking work. The median expected salary for a typical physical therapist with a moderate level of experience in the United States is $71,181. The average range is approximately $65,000 to $77,000. This job will be around as long as people are injuring themselves and suffering debilitating conditions, though, so there will always be a need for more physical therapists. For more information on how to become a physical therapist in your area, you may want to speak with someone who is working as a physical therapist in your field of interest.
Institutions offering quality Physical Therapy Programs include Apollo College, Brown Mackie College, Keiser University, South College and South University.
Find the perfect Allied Health School or Physical Therapy College today and start your path to a rewarding career.
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