How Much Does a Physical Therapist With a Doctorate Make?

Earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree can lead to a fulfilling and financially rewarding career. If you’re wondering, “How Much Does A Physical Therapist With A Doctorate Make?”, thebootdoctor.net is here to provide insights. Let’s explore the potential earnings of a DPT in the U.S., considering various factors that influence salary and offering you a clear path towards a successful career in physical therapy and information about physical rehabilitation.

1. What Is the Average Salary for a Physical Therapist With a Doctorate?

The average salary for a physical therapist with a doctorate is approximately $99,710 per year. However, this figure can vary significantly based on location, experience, specialization, and the type of facility where the physical therapist is employed, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Understanding these variables is key to maximizing your earning potential in this dynamic healthcare field and building a career in musculoskeletal rehabilitation.

To better understand your potential earnings, let’s examine the factors influencing DPT salaries and how they vary across different states.

2. How Does Location Affect a Physical Therapist’s Salary?

Location is a significant determinant of a physical therapist’s salary due to variations in cost of living, demand for services, and state regulations. States with higher costs of living or greater demand for physical therapy tend to offer higher salaries, making location a strategic consideration for DPT graduates.

State	Hourly Mean Wage	Annual Mean Wage	Cost of Living Index
California	$54.94	$114,270	145.0
Alabama	$46.61	$96,950	88.1
District of Columbia	$49.78	$103,550	144.6

Let’s dive into how specific states compensate their physical therapists.

2.1. Alabama: $96,950/year

In Alabama, a Doctor of Physical Therapy earns an average annual salary of $96,950, which translates to $46.61 per hour. The cost of living in Alabama is relatively low, indexed at 88.1, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability. The state anticipates approximately 170 physical therapy job openings each year through 2030.

2.2. Alaska: $110,830/year

Alaska offers one of the highest average DPT salaries in the U.S., at $110,830 per year, or $53.28 per hour. Despite a higher cost of living (125.1 on the index), the competitive compensation and unique environment can be appealing. The state projects about 30 job openings annually, reflecting its smaller population.

2.3. Arizona: $98,960/year

Arizona’s physical therapists earn an average of $98,960 annually, or $47.58 per hour. With a cost of living slightly above the national average at 110.5, Arizona is experiencing strong demand for healthcare professionals, projecting 430 new PT job openings each year.

2.4. Arkansas: $92,270/year

In Arkansas, the average annual DPT salary is $92,270, or $44.36 per hour. The cost of living is below the national average, indexed at 88.5. The state expects around 140 job openings annually in the physical therapy sector.

2.5. California: $114,270/year

California leads the nation in DPT salaries, with an average of $114,270 per year, or $54.94 per hour. This high compensation reflects the state’s high cost of living (145.0 on the index) and strong demand for healthcare services. The state projects approximately 1,550 new physical therapy job openings each year. The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) has a campus in San Marcos, CA, offering a great place to pursue physical therapy studies.

2.6. Colorado: $98,000/year

Colorado-based physical therapists can expect an annual salary of $98,000, or $47.12 per hour. With a cost of living indexed at 101.8, slightly above the national average, Colorado projects around 440 new job openings each year, driven by an active population.

2.7. Connecticut: $103,870/year

Connecticut offers an average DPT salary of $103,870 per year, or $49.94 per hour, making it the ninth-highest paying state for physical therapists. The cost of living is considerably high at 113.2, and the state anticipates about 220 job openings each year.

2.8. Delaware: $104,530/year

Delaware’s physical therapists enjoy an average annual salary of $104,530, or $50.26 per hour. With a cost of living close to the national average at 100.9, Delaware projects approximately 70 new job openings each year.

2.9. District of Columbia (D.C.): $103,550/year

In the nation’s capital, physical therapists earn an average of $103,550 per year, or $49.78 per hour. D.C. has a high cost of living, indexed at 144.6, and projects around 40 new job openings each year, making it a competitive market for private practices.

2.10. Florida: $94,850/year

Florida offers an average annual DPT salary of $94,850, or $45.60 per hour. With a cost of living slightly above the national average at 103.1, Florida’s appeal is enhanced by its warm climate and vibrant healthcare sector. The state expects around 1,040 new job openings each year. USAHS has campuses in St. Augustine and Miami, providing excellent educational opportunities in the Sunshine State.

2.11. Georgia: $99,860/year

Georgia-based physical therapists can expect an annual salary of $99,860, or $48.01 per hour. The cost of living in Georgia is below the national average at 91.3, and the state anticipates about 470 new job openings each year.

2.12. Hawaii: $103,010/year

Hawaii offers an average DPT salary of $103,010 per year, or $49.52 per hour. However, Hawaii has the highest cost of living in the U.S., indexed at 186.2. The state projects approximately 50 new job openings each year.

2.13. Idaho: $92,400/year

In Idaho, physical therapists earn an average of $92,400 annually, or $44.42 per hour. The cost of living is just above the national average at 101.1, and the state expects around 120 new PT jobs each year.

2.14. Illinois: $104,640/year

Illinois boasts an impressive DPT salary of $104,640 per year, or $50.31 per hour. With a cost of living below the national average at 93.3, Illinois also has a high demand for PTs, with approximately 500 new job openings each year.

2.15. Indiana: $96,760/year

Indiana offers an average annual DPT salary of $96,760, or $46.52 per hour. The cost of living in Indiana is below the national average at 90.3, and the state anticipates about 310 new PTs needed each year.

2.16. Iowa: $91,850/year

How much do physical therapists with doctorates make in Iowa? Iowa’s average annual DPT salary is $91,850, or $44.16 per hour. With around 160 new jobs opening each year, Iowa could be a worthwhile destination. The cost of living in Iowa is below the national average, at 90.1.

2.17. Kansas: $93,780/year

At $93,780 per year ($45.09 per hour), the average DPT salary in Kansas is strong. With an average of 140 new jobs opening up yearly, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better state for PTs in the Midwest. Kansas is one of the least expensive states to live in, with a cost of living of 87.3 on the index.

2.18. Kentucky: $87,480/year

In Kentucky, you can earn a physical therapy doctor salary of $87,480 per year, which translates to $42.06 per hour. The PMP expects an average of 200 new PT jobs to open in the state yearly. The cost of living in Kentucky is below the national average, at 92.6 on the index.

2.19. Louisiana: $97,830/year

Louisiana is near the top of the list, with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy salary of $97,830 ($47.04 per hour). The PMP expects around 160 openings for PTs in the state each year. Louisiana’s below-average cost of living—92.1 on the index—is another plus.

2.20. Maine: $91,720/year

At $91,720 per year ($44.10 per hour), Maine’s Doctor of Physical Therapy salary is among the lowest in the country. However, it still ranks above the national median household income of $68,251 per year, as reported in 2022. So, if you’re wondering if a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree is worth it, here’s your answer. The PMP anticipates about 60 new PT jobs to open in Maine each year between now and 2030. The cost of living in Maine is above the national average, at 111.3 on the index.

2.21. Maryland: $105,520/year

The projected DPT salary in Maryland is around $105,520 per year ($50.73 per hour). Couple that above-average income with an estimated 340 annual job openings, and you can understand why Maryland is an excellent place to practice. The cost of living in Maryland is above the national average, at 116.2 on the index.

2.22. Massachusetts: $99,700/year

There’s much to love about living in Massachusetts—especially as a physical therapist. With an annual physical therapy doctor salary of $99,700—$47.93 per hour—you can explore the Berkshires at leisure. Throughout the state, the PMP expects around 520 new job openings yearly. The cost of living in Massachusetts is the fourth-highest in the country, at 144.3 on the index.

2.23. Michigan: $95,450/year

Base yourself in Michigan, and you’ll receive a Dr. of Physical Therapy salary of $95,450 ($45.89 per hour). The PMP expects 490 job openings annually in the state, so you’ll have multiple chances to apply. The cost of living in Michigan is below the national average, at 91.8 on the index.

2.24. Minnesota: $97,860/year

Minnesota’s average annual Doctor of Physical Therapy salary is $97,860 ($47.05 per hour). Whether you hope to work in a clinic, hospital, or another setting, you’ll have around 250 job openings each year to choose from. The cost of living in Minnesota is below the national average, at 94.8 on the index.

2.25. Mississippi: $95,230/year

PTs in Mississippi earn a substantial DPT salary for the area. $95,230 per year ($45.79 per hour) is a respectable wage anywhere. The PMP projects 110 yearly job openings on average. Mississippi is among the top 5 least expensive states, with an index rating of 88.3.

2.26. Missouri: $91,030/year

Base yourself in Missouri, and you could take home a Doctorate of Physical Therapy salary of $91,030 ($43.77 per hour). With 280 openings each year, you’ll have your share of choices when you start job hunting. The cost of living in Missouri is below the national average, at 88.5 on the index.

2.27. Montana: $85,550/year

The mean annual DPT salary for Montana-based practitioners is $85,550 ($41.13 per hour). The state is sparsely populated, so an average annual increase of 80 PT jobs makes sense. The cost of living in Montana is below the national average, at 94.6 on the index.

2.28. Nebraska: $90,870/year

If your journey takes you to Nebraska, you can expect to earn a Doctorate of Physical Therapy salary of $90,870 per year ($43.69 per hour). According to the PMP, Nebraskans will need around 130 new PTs annually. The cost of living in Nebraska is below the national average, at 93.4 on the index.

2.29. Nevada: $111,460/year

With a mean annual income of $111,460 ($53.59 per hour), Nevada has the second-highest physical therapy doctor salary after California. Regardless of the bachelor’s degree you pursue ahead of your Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, you can expect to earn six figures in the Silver State. On average, you can expect around 140 new PT job openings in the state each year. The cost of living in Nevada is above the national average, at 102.7 on the index.

2.30. New Hampshire: $95,220/year

New Hampshire has a Doctor of Physical Therapy salary of $95,220 ($45,78 per hour)—a similar wage to other states in the Northeast like Rhode Island. From now until 2030, the state should have around 80 new job openings each year. The cost of living in New Hampshire is well above the national average, at 113.6 on the index.

2.31. New Jersey: $109,280/year

New Jersey is the fourth-highest-paying state for physical therapists, with an average Doctor of Physical Therapy salary of $109,280 per year ($52.54 per hour). The PMP predicts that 530 new jobs will open in New Jersey each year. The cost of living in New Jersey is above the national average, at 113.7 on the index.

2.32. New Mexico: $98,290/year

New Mexico is another well-paying state, with an average Doctorate of Physical Therapy salary of $98,290 ($47.26 per hour). With an elevated wage comes competition—the PMP expects 110 new PT jobs to open yearly. The good news is that New Mexico’s cost of living is below the national average at 93.6.

2.33. New York: $100,810/year

Whether you’re from New York or plan to relocate, you could earn an average DPT salary of $100,810 per year ($48.47 per hour). New York’s population is just shy of twenty million, so it should come as no surprise that there should be 1,370 new PT jobs opening each year. However, New York has a higher-than-average cost of living, with an index rating of 123.1.

2.34. North Carolina: $95,150/year

In North Carolina, you can expect to earn a physical therapy doctor salary of $95,150 per year ($45.74 per hour). Between now and 2030, the average number of new PT jobs yearly in the state is estimated at 450. The cost of living in North Carolina is below the national average, at 98.5 on the index.

2.35. North Dakota: $88,430 year

North Dakota pays an annual Dr. of Physical Therapy salary of $88,430 ($42.51 per hour). According to the PMP report, you can expect about 50 new PT jobs to open there each year. The cost of living in North Dakota is below the national average, at 92.8 on the index.

2.36. Ohio: $97,890/year

Whether you choose Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus, or elsewhere, your average Doctor of Physical Therapy salary in Ohio is $97,890 per year—or $47.06 per hour. With an average of 510 new PT jobs each year, Ohio’s demand for PTs is growing. The cost of living in Ohio is below the national average, at 94.0 on the index.

2.37. Oklahoma: $95,450/year

Oklahoma pays its physical therapists fairly well—the mean DPT salary is $95,450 per year ($45.89 per hour). If things continue as the PMP expects, you’ll see an average of 160 new PT jobs here each year. The cost of living in Oklahoma is the state with the second-lowest cost of living in the U.S. behind only West Virginia, at 86.4 on the index.

2.38. Oregon: $100,310/year

In Oregon, PTs do fine for themselves, earning a physical therapy doctor salary of $100,310 per year ($48.22 per hour). If you’ve ever wanted to live and work in Oregon, now is your chance—there will be an average of 210 new jobs in the field each year. The cost of living in Oregon is well above the national average, at 114.1 on the index.

2.39. Pennsylvania: $98,970/year

Pennsylvania’s average Doctor of Physical Therapy salary is just below the national average at $98,970 ($47.58 per hour). Nonetheless, it’s an excellent place to start your career, with 770 new PT jobs expected yearly. The cost of living in Pennsylvania comes in at just above the national average, at 95.6.

2.40. Puerto Rico: $52,690/year

Puerto Rico is an outlier on this list; the average Doctor of Physical Therapy salary comes in at $52,690 annually, or $25.33 per hour. The island is expected to open around 40 new physical therapist jobs per year. The cost of living in Puerto Rico is above average, at 102.6 on the index.

2.41. Rhode Island: $95,160/year

Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but it offers a sizable Dr. of Physical Therapy salary. At $95,160 per year ($45.75 per hour), the average wage in the state is reasonably high for the area. The PMP predicts that 60 new positions will open up each year. The cost of living in Rhode Island is above the national average, at 113.4 on the index.

2.42. South Carolina: $94,280/year

The Doctorate of Physical Therapy salary for South Carolina-based PTs is $94,280 per year ($45.33 per hour). If the pay appeals to you, you can vie for one of the 220 annual job openings for PTs in the state. The cost of living in South Carolina is below the national average, at 97.6 on the index.

2.43. South Dakota: $89,050/year

South Dakota’s average DPT salary of $89,050 ($42.81 per hour) may seem low, but it’s adequate considering the state’s cost of living, which is 93.4 on the index—below the national average. With that said, roughly 60 new PT positions open each year.

2.44. Tennessee: $96,440/year

PTs in Tennessee do what they love for an average annual salary of $96,440 ($46.37 per hour). With the PMP predicting 320 new job openings each year, now is a perfect time to move to Nashville. The cost of living in Tennessee is below the national average, at 90.3 on the index.

2.45. Texas: $106,960/year

The Lone Star State pays its physical therapists well, with an average physical therapy doctor salary of $106,960 per year ($51.42 per hour). Texas is home to two USAHS campuses (Austin and Dallas), so you can transition into one of the 1,150 new PT jobs after graduation. The cost of living in Texas is below the national average, at 92.4 on the index. For those in Houston, consider visiting thebootdoctor.net at 6565 Fannin St for foot care solutions.

2.46. Utah: $96,860/year

Utah’s average DPT salary is $96,860, or $46.57 per hour. The PMP expects an annual increase of 170 PT jobs until 2030. The cost of living in Utah is above the national average, at 102.9 on the index.

2.47. Vermont: $94,380/year

In Vermont, you can expect to earn an average physical therapy doctor salary of $94,380 per year ($45.38 per hour) if you secure one of the 50 new PT jobs opening each year. The cost of living in Vermont is above the national average, at 114.7 on the index.

2.48. Virginia: $99,850/year

Virginia ranks high for PT pay, with an average DPT salary of $99,850 annually ($48.01 per hour). The field is rapidly growing, with an estimated 420 new positions opening each year. Virginia’s cost of living is just above the national average—101.3 on the index.

2.49. Washington: $101,480/year

Move to the Pacific Northwest, and you could make a Dr. of Physical Therapy salary of $101,480 per year ($48.79 per hour). There’s a lot of demand, too, with an average of 850 new jobs each year. The cost of living in Washington is above the national average, at 115.1 on the index.

2.50. West Virginia: $94,130/year

If you’re willing to relocate to West Virginia, your annual DPT salary could reach $94,130 ($45.25 per hour)—if you secure one of the 110 new job openings each year. West Virginia’s cost of living is the lowest in the country, at 83.8 on the index.

2.51. Wisconsin: $95,180/year

How much can you earn in America’s dairyland? You’re looking at an average physical therapy doctor salary of $95,180 per year ($45.76 per hour). Wisconsin is expected to add 310 PT jobs every year until 2030. Wisconsin’s cost of living is also below the national average, at 97.0 on the index.

2.52. Wyoming: $93,190/year

Last is Wyoming, where the mean DPT salary is $93,190 per year ($44.80 per hour). The PMP estimates the average number of new PT jobs at 40 per year. The cost of living in Wyoming is below the national average, at 95.1 on the index.

States with high physical therapist salaries and new openings

3. What Factors Influence a Physical Therapist’s Salary?

Several factors can influence a physical therapist’s salary, including experience, specialization, practice setting, and additional certifications. These elements can significantly enhance earning potential, reflecting the value of continuous professional development in the physical therapy field.

3.1. Experience

Experience is a key factor in determining a physical therapist’s salary. Entry-level positions naturally offer lower pay, while those with several years of experience command higher salaries due to their expertise and proven track record.

3.2. Specialization

Specializing in a particular area of physical therapy can significantly increase earning potential. Common specializations include:

• Orthopedics: Focusing on musculoskeletal conditions.
• Sports Physical Therapy: Working with athletes to prevent and treat injuries.
• Neurology: Helping patients with neurological disorders improve their motor functions.
• Pediatrics: Treating infants, children, and adolescents.
• Geriatrics: Focusing on the elderly and age-related conditions.
• Cardiovascular and Pulmonary: Assisting patients with heart and lung conditions.

3.3. Practice Setting

The type of facility where a physical therapist works also affects salary. Common practice settings include:

• Hospitals: Often provide competitive salaries and benefits.
• Private Clinics: Salaries can vary widely depending on the clinic’s success and location.
• Rehabilitation Centers: Focus on restoring function, which can be financially rewarding.
• Nursing Homes: Demand is high due to the aging population.
• Schools: Working with children offers unique benefits and challenges.
• Home Health Agencies: Provide flexibility but may have varying pay rates.
• Sports Teams: Prestigious but competitive.

3.4. Additional Certifications

Earning additional certifications can lead to higher pay. Certifications demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills, making physical therapists more valuable to employers. Examples include:

• Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT)
• Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
• Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT)
• Board-Certified Clinical Specialist (BCC)

4. How Can a Physical Therapist Increase Their Salary?

A physical therapist can increase their salary through several strategic actions, including pursuing advanced education, obtaining certifications, gaining specialized experience, and improving their negotiation skills. These efforts demonstrate a commitment to professional growth and enhance their market value.

4.1. Pursue Advanced Education

While a DPT is the standard entry-level degree, further education can still boost your earning potential. Consider pursuing a post-professional doctorate or a Ph.D. to engage in research, teach, or specialize further.

4.2. Obtain Certifications

As mentioned, certifications demonstrate expertise in a specific area. Earning certifications not only enhances your skills but also makes you more marketable and allows you to negotiate for higher pay.

4.3. Gain Specialized Experience

Working in a specialized area of physical therapy can lead to higher salaries. Specializations often require additional training and expertise, which employers are willing to compensate more generously.

4.4. Improve Negotiation Skills

Negotiation is a critical skill for maximizing your salary. Research average salaries in your area and field, and be prepared to articulate your value and contributions. Don’t be afraid to negotiate for better pay and benefits.

4.5. Consider Travel Physical Therapy

Travel physical therapy involves temporary assignments in different locations, often offering higher pay rates than permanent positions. This can be a great way to gain diverse experience and increase your income.

4.6. Start a Private Practice

Opening your own physical therapy practice can provide significant financial rewards. While it requires business acumen and entrepreneurial skills, the potential for higher earnings and greater autonomy can be substantial.

5. What Is the Job Outlook for Physical Therapists?

The job outlook for physical therapists is strong, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 15% growth in employment from 2022 to 2032. This growth rate is much faster than the average for all occupations, driven by an aging population and increasing awareness of the benefits of physical therapy.

5.1. Aging Population

The aging population is a significant driver of demand for physical therapy services. As people age, they often experience conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and the after-effects of strokes, all of which require physical therapy.

5.2. Increasing Awareness

Increased awareness of the benefits of physical therapy is also contributing to job growth. More people are turning to physical therapy as a non-invasive alternative to surgery and pain medication for various conditions.

5.3. Technological Advancements

Technological advancements in physical therapy, such as telehealth and advanced rehabilitation equipment, are expanding the reach and effectiveness of physical therapy services, further driving demand.

5.4. Preventative Care

There is a growing emphasis on preventative care, with physical therapists playing a key role in helping people maintain their physical health and prevent injuries. This proactive approach is increasing the demand for physical therapy services.

6. What Skills and Qualities Are Essential for a Physical Therapist?

To excel as a physical therapist, several key skills and qualities are essential, including strong communication, empathy, critical thinking, and physical stamina. These attributes enable physical therapists to effectively treat patients and contribute to their overall well-being.

6.1. Communication Skills

Effective communication is vital for explaining treatment plans, providing encouragement, and educating patients on how to manage their conditions.

6.2. Empathy

Empathy allows physical therapists to understand and share the feelings of their patients, building trust and rapport that enhances the therapeutic relationship.

6.3. Critical Thinking

Critical thinking skills are necessary for assessing patients’ conditions, developing appropriate treatment plans, and adjusting those plans based on patient progress.

6.4. Physical Stamina

Physical therapy can be physically demanding, requiring therapists to spend long hours on their feet and assist patients with exercises and movements.

6.5. Interpersonal Skills

Strong interpersonal skills help physical therapists work effectively with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals as part of a multidisciplinary team.

7. What Are the Typical Responsibilities of a Physical Therapist?

Physical therapists have a variety of responsibilities aimed at helping patients recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve their overall physical function. These responsibilities include:

• Evaluating Patients: Assessing patients’ physical condition, functional abilities, and medical history to diagnose their needs.
• Developing Treatment Plans: Creating individualized treatment plans based on patient evaluations and goals.
• Implementing Treatment Plans: Guiding patients through exercises, manual therapy, and other interventions.
• Documenting Progress: Keeping detailed records of patient progress and adjusting treatment plans as needed.
• Educating Patients: Teaching patients how to manage their conditions and prevent future injuries.
• Collaborating with Other Healthcare Professionals: Working with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers to coordinate patient care.

8. How to Choose the Right DPT Program?

Choosing the right DPT program is a crucial step toward a successful career in physical therapy. Consider factors such as accreditation, curriculum, faculty expertise, clinical experience opportunities, and location when making your decision.

8.1. Accreditation

Ensure that the DPT program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous standards and that graduates are eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).

8.2. Curriculum

Look for a curriculum that offers a comprehensive education in physical therapy, covering areas such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and clinical practice.

8.3. Faculty Expertise

Consider the expertise and experience of the faculty. Programs with faculty who are actively involved in research and clinical practice can provide a more enriching educational experience.

8.4. Clinical Experience Opportunities

Clinical experiences are a vital part of a DPT program. Look for programs that offer a variety of clinical rotations in different settings, allowing you to gain diverse experience and prepare for your future career.

8.5. Location

Choose a program in a location that appeals to you. Consider factors such as cost of living, access to clinical sites, and quality of life when making your decision. USAHS offers programs at multiple locations, including San Marcos, CA, St. Augustine, and Miami, FL, and Austin and Dallas, TX.

9. Can You Increase Your DPT Salary Potential with a Degree from USAHS?

Yes, a degree from USAHS can significantly increase your DPT salary potential. USAHS confers more degrees than any other physical therapy program in the country and offers programs with unrivaled faculty-practitioners ready to guide you.

9.1. Program Options at USAHS

USAHS offers multiple DPT programs designed with your needs in mind:

• Residential DPT Pathway: Blended coursework with online components and immersive weekly labs.
• Hybrid Immersion DPT Pathway: Online coursework with two immersive in-person labs per term.
• Flex DPT Pathway: Online coursework with in-person labs on select weekends.

10. How to Get Started on Your Path to Becoming a Physical Therapist

If you’re ready to start your journey to a rewarding physical therapy career, follow these steps:

1. Complete a Bachelor’s Degree: Earn a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as kinesiology or biology.
2. Apply to a DPT Program: Research and apply to an accredited DPT program, such as those offered by USAHS.
3. Pass the NPTE: After graduating from a DPT program, pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
4. Get Licensed: Obtain a license to practice physical therapy in your state.

FAQ

What Is a Physical Therapist?

A physical therapist is a trained healthcare professional who helps people suffering from injuries or illnesses improve their range of motion and manage pain. They work with people of all ages, often as part of a healthcare team, to improve patients’ quality of life.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Physical Therapist?

Typically, it takes anywhere from three to eight years to become a physical therapist. First, earn a bachelor’s degree, which often takes four years to complete, followed by a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT). At USAHS, the residential DPT program can take 2.3 years to complete, while the flex program (a mix of online and in-person learning) can take 3 years.

What Is the Job Outlook for Physical Therapists?

Physical therapy is a good career option for many people because it allows them to help others live better lives. It has a strong job outlook, with the BLS