How to Become a Physical Therapist: DPT Degree, License, Salary, Career Outlook and Complete Guide

How Do You Become a Physical Therapist?

To become a licensed Physical Therapist in the United States, you generally need to:

1. Complete the college prerequisites required by Doctor of Physical Therapy programs.
2. Earn a bachelor's degree in most cases.
3. Graduate from a Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
4. Complete required supervised clinical education.
5. Apply to your state physical therapy licensing board.
6. Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination, commonly called the NPTE.
7. Complete any additional state requirements, such as a jurisprudence examination or criminal background check.
8. Obtain your state license.
9. Maintain your license through required continuing education.
10. Optionally complete a clinical residency, fellowship or board specialty certification.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that physical therapists entering the profession need a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, and every state requires physical therapists to be licensed.

Most students should expect the complete path to take approximately:

7 years after high school

for a traditional four-year bachelor's degree followed by a roughly three-year professional DPT program.

Accelerated and combined programs can shorten that timeline.

Physical therapy also offers an unusually attractive combination of healthcare, movement science, problem solving and direct patient interaction.

The latest BLS data report a median annual wage of:

$102,760

for physical therapists in May 2025.

The highest 10% earned more than:

$135,140.

Employment is projected to grow 12% from 2025 through 2035, four times the 3% growth projected for all occupations. Approximately 13,400 physical therapist openings are projected each year.

But salary and job growth tell you only part of the story.

Physical therapy is highly interpersonal and physically active.

O*NET reports that 94% of surveyed physical therapists have constant contact with other people, 93% work physically very close to other people, and 61% spend more than half of their working time standing.

Before committing years to a DPT degree, ask another question:

Would you actually enjoy being a physical therapist?

Take the Free MAPP Assessment and use your 10 Free Career Matches to see how Physical Therapist and other healthcare careers align with your motivations, interests, temperament and preferred way of working.

Your career matching can help you discover:

• how closely Physical Therapist matches you;
• why the career matches or does not match;
• what parts of the work you may enjoy;
• what you may dislike;
• how to become a physical therapist;
• education requirements;
• salary information;
• job outlook;
• related healthcare careers;
• educational pathways;
• and available jobs.

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‍Physical Therapist Career Snapshot

BLS projects the United States will add approximately 33,800 physical therapist jobs between 2025 and 2035.

What Does a Physical Therapist Do?

Physical therapists, often called PTs, help people:

• improve movement;
• regain physical function;
• reduce pain;
• recover from injury;
• recover from surgery;
• manage chronic conditions;
• prevent further injury;
• improve strength;
• improve balance;
• improve endurance;
• and maintain independence.

BLS describes physical therapists as professionals who help injured or ill people improve movement and manage pain. They play important roles in rehabilitation, preventive care and treatment of chronic conditions, illnesses and injuries.

A PT may work with someone who:

• tore an ACL playing sports;
• had a total knee replacement;
• suffered a stroke;
• developed chronic back pain;
• fractured a hip;
• has Parkinson's disease;
• lost a limb;
• has cerebral palsy;
• is recovering from heart surgery;
• has balance problems;
• was injured at work;
• or simply needs help maintaining mobility as they age.

The work therefore varies enormously from patient to patient.

What Are the Main Duties of a Physical Therapist?

According to BLS, physical therapists typically:

• review patient medical histories;
• review referrals and notes from other healthcare professionals;
• evaluate movement;
• observe how patients stand and walk;
• listen to patient concerns;
• diagnose problems involving function and movement;
• develop individualized plans of care;
• use therapeutic exercise;
• use stretching;
• use hands-on techniques;
• use mobility equipment;
• help reduce pain;
• improve mobility;
• prevent additional injury;
• track patient progress;
• modify treatment when needed;
• and educate patients and families about recovery.

O*NET also identifies individualized treatment planning, performing initial examinations, documenting prognosis and progress, educating patients and adjusting treatment based on response as central PT responsibilities.

Physical Therapists Are Movement Specialists

One of the best ways to understand physical therapy is to think of PTs as specialists in:

Human movement and physical function.

A patient may arrive saying:

"My knee hurts."

The PT's job is not simply to massage the knee.

The therapist may evaluate:

• joint movement;
• muscle strength;
• balance;
• flexibility;
• gait;
• movement patterns;
• posture;
• functional limitations;
• pain;
• neurological function;
• and how the problem affects everyday activities.

Treatment is then designed around what the patient needs to be able to do.

For one person, success may mean:

returning to competitive soccer.

For another:

walking safely to the bathroom without falling.

For another:

returning to work after back surgery.

For another:

learning to walk again after a stroke.

That variety is one reason the profession appeals to people who enjoy both science and helping others.

A Day in the Life of a Physical Therapist

A physical therapist's schedule varies by setting.

A PT working in an outpatient sports clinic will have a different day from one working in a hospital or visiting patients at home.

O*NET's work-context data show how interpersonal and active the occupation really is.

Among surveyed physical therapists:

• 94% have constant contact with others;
• 93% work physically very close to patients;
• 80% have face-to-face discussions every day;
• 83% make decisions affecting others every day;
• 82% report a lot of freedom to make decisions;
• and 61% spend more than half of their workday standing.

Here is what a typical day in an outpatient orthopedic clinic might look like.

7:30 AM: Review the Schedule

The therapist arrives and reviews today's patients.

The schedule might include:

• a runner recovering from knee surgery;
• an older adult with balance problems;
• a construction worker with low back pain;
• a teenager recovering from an ACL reconstruction;
• an office worker with shoulder pain;
• and a patient returning after hip replacement.

The therapist reviews:

• physician notes;
• previous treatment documentation;
• precautions;
• progress;
• imaging information when available;
• and treatment goals.

8:00 AM: New Patient Evaluation

The first appointment is a patient with persistent shoulder pain.

The PT asks questions about:

• when the problem began;
• activities that cause pain;
• previous injuries;
• medical history;
• medications;
• work;
• exercise;
• sleep;
• and functional limitations.

Then comes the physical examination.

The therapist may evaluate:

• range of motion;
• strength;
• joint movement;
• posture;
• neurological signs;
• movement patterns;
• pain response;
• and functional activities.

BLS identifies evaluating movement and developing individualized treatment plans as central responsibilities of physical therapists.

8:45 AM: Develop a Plan of Care

Based on the evaluation, the PT develops a treatment plan.

That may include:

• therapeutic exercise;
• mobility work;
• manual therapy;
• strengthening;
• movement retraining;
• education;
• activity modification;
• and a home exercise program.

The therapist also establishes measurable goals.

For example:

Return to overhead work without shoulder pain within eight weeks.

9:00 AM: Postoperative Knee Patient

The next patient had knee surgery several weeks ago.

Today's session may include:

• measuring knee range of motion;
• checking swelling;
• evaluating walking;
• strengthening;
• balance exercises;
• mobility work;
• and reviewing the home program.

Progress is documented after the session.

10:00 AM: Older Adult With Balance Problems

This patient recently fell.

The therapist may assess:

• lower-body strength;
• gait;
• reaction time;
• balance;
• assistive-device use;
• and fall risk.

Treatment could involve:

• balance exercises;
• walking practice;
• strengthening;
• transfer training;
• and education about fall prevention.

Preventing the next fall can be just as important as treating the effects of the previous one.

11:00 AM: Athlete Returning to Sport

A high school soccer player is recovering from ACL reconstruction.

The therapist evaluates:

• strength differences between legs;
• jumping;
• landing;
• running;
• change of direction;
• confidence;
• and sport-specific movement.

Physical therapy is not simply about reaching the point where pain disappears.

For athletes, the goal may be restoring enough strength, power and movement quality to safely return to competition.

12:00 PM: Documentation and Lunch

Physical therapy involves more paperwork than many prospective students expect.

The PT may document:

• objective measurements;
• patient response;
• exercises performed;
• progress;
• revised goals;
• and plans for the next session.

O*NET identifies documenting prognosis, treatment response and progress as one of the profession's highest-rated tasks.

1:00 PM: Low Back Pain Patient

The therapist sees a patient whose back pain is interfering with work.

The PT may assess:

• mobility;
• strength;
• lifting technique;
• work demands;
• posture;
• neurological symptoms;
• and pain triggers.

Treatment might include:

• exercise;
• movement retraining;
• lifting mechanics;
• strengthening;
• education;
• and gradual return to normal activities.

2:00 PM: Hands-On Treatment

A patient recovering from surgery has limited joint mobility.

The PT may use manual techniques to help improve mobility.

BLS notes that therapists may use special movements of joints, muscles and soft tissue to reduce pain and improve movement.

This is one reason physical therapists need:

• dexterity;
• comfort touching patients;
• and strong knowledge of anatomy.

3:00 PM: Patient Is Not Improving as Expected

A patient's condition has plateaued.

The therapist reassesses.

Questions include:

• Is the original diagnosis still reasonable?
• Has the patient followed the home program?
• Is something new happening?
• Does the treatment plan need to change?
• Does the patient need to return to a physician or another specialist?

BLS identifies resourcefulness and adaptation of treatment plans as important PT qualities.

Good therapists do not simply repeat the same exercises indefinitely.

They respond to evidence.

4:00 PM: Patient Education

Another patient is worried that movement will make their pain worse.

The therapist explains:

• the recovery process;
• appropriate activity;
• which symptoms require caution;
• what exercises to continue at home;
• and how gradually increasing activity may help.

Education is a major part of physical therapy.

A patient spends only a small portion of the week inside the clinic.

Much of recovery happens between appointments.

5:00 PM: Final Treatment and Documentation

The PT sees the last patient, finishes documentation and prepares for tomorrow.

A busy outpatient therapist may treat numerous patients in one day.

O*NET reports that 51% of PTs experience strict time pressure every day, which reflects the need to balance patient care with documentation and scheduling.

A Hospital Physical Therapist Has a Very Different Day

A hospital-based PT may help patients:

• stand for the first time after surgery;
• begin walking after a stroke;
• transfer safely out of bed;
• use a walker;
• climb stairs;
• regain strength after an extended hospitalization;
• or determine what level of rehabilitation is needed before discharge.

The therapist may work alongside:

• physicians;
• nurses;
• occupational therapists;
• speech-language pathologists;
• case managers;
• and other professionals.

The objective may not be athletic performance.

It may simply be:

Can this patient safely go home?

A Home Health Physical Therapist Has Another Kind of Day

Home health PTs travel to patients' homes.

They may work with:

• older adults;
• people recovering from surgery;
• people with neurological conditions;
• patients unable to easily leave home;
• and people at high risk of falling.

The therapist sees the patient's real environment.

That can reveal problems not visible in a clinic, such as:

• stairs;
• loose rugs;
• poor lighting;
• difficult bathroom access;
• narrow hallways;
• or unsafe transfers.

BLS reports that home healthcare services accounted for about 11% of PT employment in 2025 and had one of the occupation's highest median salaries.

Step by Step: How to Become a Physical Therapist

The process requires substantial education.

Here is the typical path.

Step 1: Explore the Career Before Choosing Your Degree

Physical therapy requires years of education.

Before committing to that investment:

• observe practicing PTs;
• volunteer in healthcare;
• learn about different practice settings;
• speak with DPT students;
• research tuition;
• and compare PT with other healthcare careers.

Many DPT programs require or encourage physical therapy observation hours.

APTA's 2026 PTCAS application analysis found that 68% of participating programs required shadowing hours, with required programs averaging about 48 hours. Another 11% recommended observation experience.

Before building your academic plan, see if the career itself fits you.

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Step 2: Complete a Bachelor's Degree or Required Undergraduate Study

Most DPT programs require applicants to have earned a bachelor's degree before admission.

APTA also notes that some universities offer:

• 3+3 programs;
• freshman-entry programs;
• and other accelerated structures.

You do not necessarily need a bachelor's degree titled:

Pre-Physical Therapy.

Common undergraduate majors include:

• exercise science;
• kinesiology;
• biology;
• health science;
• psychology;
• athletic training;
• neuroscience;
• and other sciences.

What matters is meeting the prerequisite requirements of the DPT programs where you plan to apply.

Step 3: Complete DPT Prerequisite Courses

APTA identifies common prerequisites including:

• Anatomy;
• Physiology;
• Biology;
• General Chemistry;
• General Physics;
• Psychology;
• and Statistics.

APTA's 2026 PTCAS analysis gives an even clearer picture.

Among participating programs:

• 99% required Physics
• 98% required Anatomy and Physiology
• 98% required Chemistry
• 96% required Statistics
• 89% required Biology
• 86% required Psychology

Requirements differ by school.

Always build your undergraduate schedule around the actual DPT programs you are considering.

Step 4: Maintain a Competitive GPA

Most DPT programs establish minimum GPA requirements.

APTA's 2026 application data found that:

83% of participating programs required a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA

with published minimums generally ranging from:

2.5 to 3.5.

Meeting a minimum does not guarantee admission.

Competitive applicants may have GPAs substantially above the published minimum.

Step 5: Complete Physical Therapy Observation Hours

Observation gives you exposure to the actual profession.

Try to observe more than one setting if possible.

Examples include:

• outpatient orthopedics;
• hospital acute care;
• inpatient rehabilitation;
• pediatrics;
• sports;
• neurological rehabilitation;
• skilled nursing;
• home health;
• and geriatrics.

This can also help you understand what specialty interests you.

Step 6: Determine Whether Your Programs Require the GRE

Graduate Record Examination requirements have changed considerably.

APTA's 2026 PTCAS analysis found:

• 44% of participating programs required the GRE
• 11% made the GRE optional

That means applicants should not assume the GRE is universally required.

Check each program.

Step 7: Apply Through PTCAS Where Applicable

Many DPT programs participate in the:

Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service

commonly called PTCAS.

The application may include:

• college transcripts;
• GPA;
• prerequisite coursework;
• observation experience;
• essays;
• recommendation letters;
• GRE scores where required;
• and program-specific questions.

APTA maintains a PTCAS directory describing participating programs and their requirements.

Step 8: Choose a CAPTE-Accredited DPT Program

This is critical.

To practice as a physical therapist in the United States through the standard domestic pathway, your DPT education should come from a program accredited by the:

Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education

or CAPTE.

CAPTE is nationally recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation as the specialized accrediting body for entry-level physical therapist and physical therapist assistant education.

CAPTE reported:

353 physical therapist programs

and more than:

40,500 enrolled PT students

based on its 2025 annual accreditation data.

Before paying a deposit, verify a program's accreditation status directly through CAPTE.

Step 9: Complete the Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree

BLS states that DPT programs generally last about:

3 years.

APTA notes that traditional professional DPT programs average roughly two and a half years, although structure differs by institution.

DPT coursework may include:

• anatomy;
• physiology;
• biomechanics;
• kinesiology;
• neuroscience;
• pharmacology;
• pathology;
• exercise physiology;
• movement science;
• musculoskeletal care;
• neurological rehabilitation;
• cardiopulmonary care;
• evidence-based practice;
• diagnostic reasoning;
• clinical decision making;
• ethics;
• healthcare systems;
• and patient management.

This is a professional doctoral program.

It is academically demanding.

Step 10: Complete Clinical Education

You cannot learn physical therapy entirely in a classroom.

Students rotate through real healthcare settings under supervision.

APTA reports that approximately:

77% of DPT education is classroom and laboratory instruction

while:

23% is clinical education.

Students spend an average of about:

22 weeks

in their final clinical experience.

Clinical placements may include:

• outpatient clinics;
• hospitals;
• rehabilitation facilities;
• skilled nursing;
• pediatrics;
• home health;
• sports medicine;
• and specialty clinics.

Step 11: Graduate With Your DPT

Upon successful completion of the program, you receive the:

Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.

But graduating does not automatically authorize you to practice independently.

You still need a license.

Step 12: Apply to Your State Licensing Board

Every state requires physical therapists to be licensed.

The exact requirements differ.

Depending on your jurisdiction, the process may include:

• application;
• education verification;
• transcripts;
• fees;
• criminal background check;
• jurisprudence exam;
• and other state-specific requirements.

FSBPT's current jurisdiction reference guide shows that all U.S. licensing jurisdictions require graduation from an approved program and passage of the national examination, while many also require background checks or jurisprudence assessments.

Step 13: Take the National Physical Therapy Examination

The National Physical Therapy Examination is administered by the:

Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy

or FSBPT.

To sit for the NPTE, candidates must meet FSBPT eligibility requirements and be approved by the licensing authority in the jurisdiction where they intend to become licensed.

For graduates of U.S. programs, jurisdictions generally require graduation from or eligibility through a qualifying CAPTE-accredited program.

The NPTE is the major national licensing examination for physical therapists.

When Is the NPTE Offered?

For 2026, FSBPT scheduled PT examination administrations in:

• January;
• April;
• July;
• and October.

Students need to coordinate:

• graduation;
• state authorization;
• registration;
• and examination deadlines.

Do not wait until graduation to begin learning your state's process.

Step 14: Complete Any Additional State Requirements

Passing the NPTE does not necessarily complete every licensing requirement.

Depending on the state, you may also need:

• jurisprudence examination;
• background check;
• documentation;
• fees;
• or other state-specific requirements.

FSBPT reports that 29 jurisdictions require some form of jurisprudence assessment and 33 require criminal background checks for initial licensure by examination.

Always confirm the current rules with your state licensing board.

Step 15: Receive Your Physical Therapist License

Once you have met all requirements, your state grants your license.

Only then can you practice as a licensed physical therapist according to that jurisdiction's rules.

Step 16: Maintain Your License

Physical therapy education does not end after graduation.

BLS notes that continuing education is typically required to maintain PT licensure.

Requirements vary by state.

Continuing education may involve:

• clinical courses;
• ethics;
• jurisprudence;
• specialty training;
• emergency care;
• and professional development.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Physical Therapist?

For the traditional path:

Bachelor's degree

Approximately 4 years

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Approximately 3 years

Total

Approximately:

7 years after high school

Licensure preparation and examination timing may extend the process slightly.

Some accelerated 3+3 programs can reduce the total educational period.

APTA also notes that a small number of institutions admit students directly from high school into structured programs that provide progression into DPT study after specified undergraduate requirements are completed.

Do You Need a Bachelor's Degree to Become a Physical Therapist?

Usually.

Most DPT programs require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree before entering the professional program.

But there are exceptions.

Some schools offer:

• 3+3 programs;
• accelerated pathways;
• or freshman-entry programs.

The important requirement is completing the academic prerequisites and professional DPT education required by the program and licensing system.

Do You Need a Doctorate to Become a Physical Therapist?

For someone entering the profession today in the United States:

Yes.

The entry-level professional degree is the:

Doctor of Physical Therapy.

BLS identifies a doctoral or professional degree as the required entry education.

Older practicing PTs may hold bachelor's or master's degrees because educational standards changed over time.

That does not mean new students can enter through those older pathways.

Do Physical Therapists Go to Medical School?

No.

DPT programs are professional physical therapy programs.

They are not medical school.

Physical therapists are not physicians simply because they hold doctoral-level professional degrees.

Their education focuses specifically on:

• movement;
• function;
• rehabilitation;
• musculoskeletal care;
• neurological conditions;
• exercise;
• physical diagnosis;
• and related healthcare sciences.

How Much Does Physical Therapy School Cost?

There is no single national tuition figure.

Costs vary widely by:

• public versus private institution;
• in-state versus out-of-state tuition;
• program length;
• university fees;
• housing;
• transportation;
• clinical placement expenses;
• and financial aid.

APTA explicitly advises applicants to compare:

• tuition;
• financial aid;
• student debt;
• program length;
• and total cost.

APTA also notes that many DPT students graduate with student loans.

Do not evaluate DPT programs only by admissions probability.

Consider the financial return of the entire educational investment.

Is a DPT Worth the Cost?

This depends heavily on:

• tuition;
• student debt;
• expected salary;
• geographic market;
• career goals;
• and whether you actually want to practice physical therapy.

The median salary is above $100,000 and employment growth is strong.

But three years of graduate professional education can be expensive.

Before enrolling, compare:

total projected educational cost

against:

expected early-career income and loan repayment.

Career fit matters even more when the education requires a large financial investment.

Physical Therapist Salary in 2026

The latest BLS wage data report a national median annual physical therapist salary of:

$102,760

as of May 2025.

That equals approximately:

$49.40 per hour.

The national earnings distribution was:

These wage data do not include self-employed workers.

Physical Therapist Salary by Work Setting

Work setting can significantly affect income.

BLS reported the following 2025 median annual wages:

Home health therefore had a median approximately:

$17,580 higher

than therapy offices in the 2025 BLS data.

That does not automatically make home health a better career.

Different settings involve different:

• schedules;
• travel;
• patient populations;
• documentation;
• productivity expectations;
• and working conditions.

Can Physical Therapists Make More Than $100,000?

Yes.

The national median itself is now above:

$100,000.

BLS reports a median of $102,760 and top-decile earnings above $135,140.

Actual income varies by:

• experience;
• geographic location;
• specialty;
• employer;
• work setting;
• productivity structure;
• overtime;
• management responsibility;
• and business ownership.

Can Physical Therapists Own Their Own Practice?

Yes, subject to state laws and professional requirements.

Some PTs become practice owners.

A private practice can involve:

• patient care;
• hiring;
• insurance;
• billing;
• marketing;
• lease expenses;
• equipment;
• payroll;
• compliance;
• scheduling;
• documentation systems;
• and financial management.

Owning a clinic therefore creates a second career:

Business ownership.

BLS reports that approximately 4% of physical therapists were self-employed in 2025.

Physical Therapist Job Outlook

The outlook is strong.

BLS projects employment to increase from:

283,700 physical therapists in 2025

to:

317,600 in 2035.

That represents:

33,800 additional jobs

and:

12% growth.

For comparison, BLS projects approximately:

3% growth

for all U.S. occupations.

Physical therapy is therefore projected to grow roughly four times as fast as the overall job market.

How Many Physical Therapist Jobs Will Open Each Year?

BLS projects approximately:

13,400 openings per year

between 2025 and 2035.

These openings include:

• newly created positions;
• retirements;
• people leaving the profession;
• and other replacement needs.

Why Is Demand for Physical Therapists Growing?

Several powerful demographic and healthcare trends are supporting demand.

1. The Population Is Aging

BLS identifies growth in the older adult population as a major driver of PT demand.

Older adults are more likely to experience:

• stroke;
• heart attack;
• mobility limitations;
• joint replacement;
• falls;
• arthritis;
• and other conditions requiring rehabilitation.

2. Chronic Conditions Are Increasing

BLS specifically identifies increasing prevalence of:

• diabetes;
• obesity;
• back pain;
• arthritis;
• and other musculoskeletal conditions

as drivers of future physical therapy demand.

3. Greater Emphasis on Nonopioid Pain Management

BLS notes that increasing emphasis on alternatives to opioid pain treatment is expected to support employment growth for physical therapists.

Physical therapy can play an important role in addressing some forms of musculoskeletal pain through movement, exercise and rehabilitation.

4. More Joint Replacement and Orthopedic Care

As people live longer and remain active later in life, demand for:

• knee replacement rehabilitation;
• hip replacement rehabilitation;
• spine care;
• and orthopedic recovery

supports continued PT utilization.

5. Stroke and Neurological Rehabilitation

Physical therapists are essential members of rehabilitation teams helping people recover mobility after:

• stroke;
• spinal cord injury;
• brain injury;
• Parkinson's disease;
• multiple sclerosis;
• and other neurological conditions.

Where Do Physical Therapists Work?

BLS reports that the largest 2025 employers were:

Therapy offices

36%

Hospitals

26%

Home healthcare

11%

Nursing and residential care facilities

6%

Self-employed

4%

Other settings include:

• rehabilitation hospitals;
• schools;
• sports facilities;
• universities;
• wellness programs;
• military facilities;
• veterans' healthcare;
• pediatric clinics;
• occupational health;
• and specialty practices.

Major Physical Therapy Specialties

Physical therapy is much broader than sports injuries.

Orthopedic Physical Therapist

Orthopedic PTs work with conditions involving:

• joints;
• bones;
• muscles;
• tendons;
• ligaments;
• and other musculoskeletal structures.

Patients may have:

• back pain;
• shoulder pain;
• knee injuries;
• fractures;
• arthritis;
• or postoperative conditions.

Orthopedics is one of the largest areas of practice.

Sports Physical Therapist

Sports PTs work with:

• athletes;
• sports injuries;
• return-to-play rehabilitation;
• injury prevention;
• performance;
• and postoperative recovery.

Clients may range from youth athletes to professional competitors.

Neurological Physical Therapist

Neurological PTs work with conditions including:

• stroke;
• Parkinson's disease;
• multiple sclerosis;
• spinal cord injury;
• traumatic brain injury;
• and other neurological disorders.

The goal often involves improving:

• walking;
• balance;
• coordination;
• movement;
• and independence.

Pediatric Physical Therapist

Pediatric PTs work with infants, children and adolescents.

Conditions may include:

• cerebral palsy;
• developmental delays;
• neurological disorders;
• orthopedic conditions;
• genetic conditions;
• and injuries.

Treatment may incorporate play and family education.

Geriatric Physical Therapist

Geriatric PTs work with older adults.

Common issues include:

• falls;
• weakness;
• arthritis;
• balance problems;
• joint replacements;
• osteoporosis;
• neurological conditions;
• and declining mobility.

Population aging makes this an increasingly important area.

Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Physical Therapist

These therapists may work with people recovering from or managing:

• heart disease;
• lung disease;
• cardiac surgery;
• chronic respiratory conditions;
• and significant deconditioning.

Pelvic Health Physical Therapist

Pelvic health PTs may work with conditions involving:

• pelvic floor dysfunction;
• pregnancy;
• postpartum recovery;
• incontinence;
• pelvic pain;
• and other pelvic health concerns.

This has become an increasingly visible specialty.

Oncology Physical Therapist

Oncology PTs work with people affected by cancer and cancer treatment.

They may address:

• weakness;
• fatigue;
• mobility;
• lymphedema;
• pain;
• and return to activity.

Wound Management Physical Therapist

Some physical therapists specialize in:

• wound assessment;
• mobility;
• positioning;
• pressure relief;
• tissue management;
• and rehabilitation connected to complex wounds.

Vestibular and Balance Physical Therapist

These PTs work with patients experiencing:

• dizziness;
• vertigo;
• balance disorders;
• vestibular dysfunction;
• and fall risk.

Acute Care Physical Therapist

Acute-care PTs work in hospitals.

Their patients may be:

• medically complex;
• immediately postoperative;
• seriously ill;
• recovering from intensive care;
• or preparing for discharge.

Home Health Physical Therapist

Home health PTs bring care directly to patients.

They often work with:

• older adults;
• postoperative patients;
• neurological conditions;
• mobility limitations;
• and fall risk.

BLS data show that home healthcare had the highest median PT wage among the major industries listed in 2025, at $114,740.

Can Physical Therapists Become Board Certified Specialists?

Yes.

Board certification is optional.

After gaining clinical experience, PTs may pursue specialist certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties.

Current specialty areas include fields such as:

• Cardiovascular and Pulmonary;
• Clinical Electrophysiology;
• Geriatrics;
• Neurology;
• Oncology;
• Orthopedics;
• Pediatrics;
• Pelvic and Women's Health;
• Sports;
• and Wound Management.

Board certification generally requires meeting specialty clinical requirements and passing an examination.

It is an advanced professional credential.

It is not required for basic PT licensure.

What Is a Physical Therapy Residency?

After earning a DPT and becoming licensed, some therapists enter a clinical residency.

BLS states that PT residencies typically last approximately:

1 year

and provide additional training and experience in a specialty.

Residencies may focus on areas such as:

• orthopedics;
• sports;
• neurology;
• geriatrics;
• pediatrics;
• or other specialized practice.

What Is a Physical Therapy Fellowship?

A fellowship generally represents advanced training beyond entry-level practice and often beyond residency-level preparation.

A therapist might pursue fellowship education in a highly specialized area of clinical practice.

BLS notes that PTs who complete residency training may pursue fellowships for additional advanced specialization.

Do Patients Need a Physician Referral to See a Physical Therapist?

Not always.

As of July 2025, APTA reports that:

All 50 states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands

provide either provisional or unrestricted direct access to physical therapist evaluation and treatment.

However, rules are not identical everywhere.

Some states impose restrictions involving:

• duration;
• number of visits;
• specific procedures;
• or other requirements.

Insurance plans may also establish separate coverage requirements.

Physical therapists must understand the laws and payer rules governing their jurisdiction.

Physical Therapist vs. Physical Therapist Assistant

These careers are related but substantially different.

Physical Therapist

A PT:

• earns a DPT;
• evaluates patients;
• establishes diagnoses related to movement and function;
• develops plans of care;
• makes clinical decisions;
• and supervises PTAs.

Physical Therapist Assistant

A PTA typically completes:

An associate degree from an accredited PTA program

and works under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist.

BLS reported a 2025 median annual wage of $68,380 for Physical Therapist Assistants.

The education requirement is much shorter than the PT pathway.

Someone interested in rehabilitation should compare both careers carefully.

Physical Therapist vs. Occupational Therapist

These careers overlap, but the focus differs.

Physical Therapist

Often focuses heavily on:

• mobility;
• movement;
• strength;
• pain;
• gait;
• balance;
• and physical function.

Occupational Therapist

Focuses on helping people perform meaningful daily activities, which may involve:

• dressing;
• eating;
• work;
• school;
• home tasks;
• fine motor skills;
• and independence.

BLS reported a 2025 median wage of $100,330 for Occupational Therapists.

If both sound appealing, use your MAPP results to compare them directly.

Physical Therapist vs. Athletic Trainer

Athletic trainers often work more specifically with:

• sports injuries;
• injury prevention;
• emergency care;
• and athletic populations.

Physical therapists have broader rehabilitation training and a doctoral entry degree.

BLS reported a 2025 median wage of $62,520 for Athletic Trainers.

Physical Therapist vs. Chiropractor

Both professions treat musculoskeletal problems, but their educational models and treatment approaches differ.

BLS reported a 2025 median wage of $79,200 for Chiropractors.

Students considering either profession should research:

• scope of practice;
• educational cost;
• clinical philosophy;
• licensing;
• patient population;
• and employment options.

Physical Therapist vs. Physician Assistant

These professions are substantially different.

Physician Assistants practice medicine and may:

• diagnose illnesses;
• order tests;
• prescribe medications;
• and provide medical treatment according to state law.

Physical therapists specialize in movement and rehabilitation.

BLS reported a 2025 median wage of $135,880 for Physician Assistants.

What Skills Do Physical Therapists Need?

The profession requires a combination of healthcare knowledge, human interaction and physical skill.

Empathy

O*NET gives Empathy the highest work-style score for Physical Therapists at:

94.

PTs often work with people who are:

• hurting;
• frustrated;
• frightened;
• discouraged;
• or recovering slowly.

Understanding the patient matters.

Communication

BLS identifies communication as essential.

PTs must:

• explain treatment;
• listen to concerns;
• teach exercises;
• motivate patients;
• and communicate with families and healthcare professionals.

You may know exactly how to rehabilitate an injury.

If you cannot get the patient to understand and participate, the knowledge has limited value.

Attention to Detail

O*NET rates Attention to Detail at:

84

for Physical Therapists.

BLS similarly emphasizes careful observation and analytical ability.

PTs need to notice:

• small changes in movement;
• pain patterns;
• weakness;
• compensation;
• neurological signs;
• and changes in progress.

Dependability

O*NET rates Dependability at:

84.

Patients may see their PT several times per week over an extended period.

Continuity and reliability matter.

Cooperation

O*NET rates Cooperation at:

88.

Physical therapists frequently collaborate with:

• physicians;
• nurses;
• PTAs;
• occupational therapists;
• speech therapists;
• athletic trainers;
• case managers;
• and families.

Physical Stamina

BLS identifies physical stamina as an important qualification.

Physical therapists spend substantial time:

• standing;
• moving;
• demonstrating exercises;
• assisting patients;
• and physically supporting movement.

O*NET reports that 61% spend more than half of their work time standing.

Dexterity

Physical therapists use their hands constantly.

BLS identifies dexterity as important because PTs perform:

• manual therapy;
• therapeutic movement;
• and physical assistance.

If you strongly dislike physical contact with patients, this career may not fit you.

Resourcefulness

Every patient is different.

BLS identifies resourcefulness as important because therapists must adapt plans to the individual.

If one approach does not work, you need another.

Time Management

BLS identifies time management as important because PTs need to treat multiple patients while completing required administrative and documentation tasks.

O*NET reports daily time pressure for 51% of surveyed therapists.

Would You Like Being a Physical Therapist?

This is one of the most important sections of the guide.

A career can have:

• excellent pay;
• excellent demand;
• and excellent social value

and still be completely wrong for you.

You may enjoy physical therapy if you like:

• helping people;
• anatomy;
• exercise;
• health;
• movement;
• solving physical problems;
• working with your hands;
• teaching;
• encouraging people;
• one-on-one interaction;
• seeing measurable improvement;
• science;
• healthcare;
• being physically active during work;
• and building long-term relationships with patients.

You may dislike physical therapy if you dislike:

• touching people;
• standing for much of the day;
• repetitive patient interactions;
• documentation;
• healthcare regulation;
• graduate school;
• student debt;
• dealing with pain;
• helping physically dependent patients;
• bodily fluids or medical settings;
• motivating uncooperative patients;
• time pressure;
• insurance requirements;
• or repeating exercises many times.

What Does the Physical Therapist Work Environment Really Look Like?

O*NET's data provide an unusually useful picture.

Among surveyed PTs:

94%

have constant contact with others.

93%

work physically very close to other people.

88%

work indoors in an environmentally controlled environment every day.

83%

make decisions affecting other people every day.

82%

have a lot of freedom to make decisions.

80%

have face-to-face discussions every day.

73%

say teamwork is extremely important.

61%

stand more than half of the workday.

51%

experience strict deadlines every day.

This is not a quiet laboratory career.

It is a highly interactive healthcare profession.

Is Physical Therapy a Good Career for Extroverts?

Potentially.

The profession involves constant interaction.

O*NET reports that 94% of workers have constant contact with others.

A PT may spend almost the entire day:

• talking;
• observing;
• touching;
• teaching;
• encouraging;
• and treating people.

If social interaction energizes you, that can be attractive.

Can Introverts Be Good Physical Therapists?

Absolutely.

Introversion does not determine whether someone can succeed.

Many introverts prefer meaningful one-on-one interaction over large-group social activity.

Physical therapy often provides exactly that.

But someone who wants long stretches of completely solitary work may find the constant patient interaction draining.

Is Physical Therapy Good for Someone Who Likes Exercise?

Potentially, but being a PT is not the same as being a personal trainer.

Physical therapy involves:

• pathology;
• diagnosis of movement problems;
• medical conditions;
• surgery recovery;
• neurological disease;
• evidence-based treatment;
• clinical reasoning;
• and licensure.

Liking exercise can help.

It is not enough by itself.

Is Physical Therapy Good for Someone Who Likes Science?

Yes.

DPT programs involve substantial science.

APTA describes curricula covering areas including:

• anatomy;
• physiology;
• neuroscience;
• pathology;
• pharmacology;
• biomechanics;
• kinesiology;
• and exercise physiology.

Someone who likes applying science directly to people may find the profession especially appealing.

Is Physical Therapy Physically Demanding?

Yes.

BLS states that PTs spend much of their time on their feet and sometimes need to lift or move patients.

That creates some risk of back injury.

The career is more physically active than many other doctoral-level health professions.

Do Physical Therapists Work Weekends?

Some do.

BLS reports that most physical therapists work normal business hours, although some work:

• evenings;
• and weekends.

Schedules vary by setting.

Hospitals, nursing facilities and rehabilitation centers may require broader coverage than outpatient clinics.

Can Physical Therapists Work Part Time?

Yes.

BLS states that although most work full time:

Part-time work is common.

This may appeal to therapists seeking schedule flexibility later in their careers.

Can Physical Therapists Work From Home?

The occupation is fundamentally hands-on.

Some parts of physical therapy can be delivered through telehealth where permitted and clinically appropriate.

But the profession frequently requires:

• physical examination;
• observation;
• manual techniques;
• gait training;
• balance training;
• and hands-on assistance.

O*NET reports that 93% of surveyed therapists perform their job physically very close to other people.

That makes physical therapy substantially less remote-friendly than many office professions.

Will AI Replace Physical Therapists?

AI will likely affect physical therapy tools and workflows, but the current labor-market outlook does not suggest a disappearing profession.

BLS projects:

12% employment growth through 2035.

Technology may assist with:

• documentation;
• movement analysis;
• scheduling;
• exercise selection;
• outcome tracking;
• patient education;
• and clinical decision support.

But physical therapists perform a highly human combination of:

• physical examination;
• hands-on treatment;
• movement observation;
• judgment;
• patient motivation;
• adaptation;
• and physical assistance.

O*NET's finding that 93% of PTs work physically very close to other people illustrates how strongly the profession depends on direct human interaction.

The likely future is not physical therapy without technology.

It is physical therapists who know how to use technology effectively.

Available Physical Therapist Jobs

Common job titles include:

• Physical Therapist;
• Doctor of Physical Therapy;
• Outpatient Physical Therapist;
• Orthopedic Physical Therapist;
• Sports Physical Therapist;
• Acute Care Physical Therapist;
• Inpatient Physical Therapist;
• Rehabilitation Physical Therapist;
• Home Health Physical Therapist;
• Pediatric Physical Therapist;
• Neurological Physical Therapist;
• Geriatric Physical Therapist;
• Pelvic Health Physical Therapist;
• Vestibular Physical Therapist;
• Oncology Physical Therapist;
• Wound Care Physical Therapist;
• Travel Physical Therapist;
• and Staff Physical Therapist.

O*NET lists titles including Acute Care PT, Doctor of Physical Therapy, Home Care Physical Therapist, Inpatient PT, Outpatient PT and Pediatric PT.

Want to see actual jobs connected to your career profile?

Use Assessment.com's Matching Jobs to see current Physical Therapist and related rehabilitation opportunities that connect with your MAPP career matches.

View Matching Physical Therapist Jobs

Travel Physical Therapy

Some therapists work temporary assignments in different locations.

Travel PT positions may appeal to therapists who enjoy:

• changing locations;
• short-term contracts;
• experiencing different facilities;
• and geographic flexibility.

Compensation structures may include:

• wages;
• housing arrangements;
• travel reimbursement;
• or other benefits

depending on the employer and assignment.

Travel work is not ideal for everyone.

Frequent relocation can interfere with:

• relationships;
• routines;
• continuity;
• and long-term professional connections.

Physical Therapist Career Advancement

Physical therapy offers several advancement paths.

One path might look like:

Staff Physical Therapist → Senior Physical Therapist → Clinical Specialist → Clinic Director → Regional Director → Practice Owner

Other therapists move into:

• clinical education;
• research;
• healthcare administration;
• university teaching;
• management;
• consulting;
• or specialty practice.

Clinic Director

A clinic director may supervise:

• physical therapists;
• PTAs;
• aides;
• scheduling;
• productivity;
• quality;
• hiring;
• operations;
• and financial performance.

This role combines clinical experience with management.

Practice Owner

Some therapists establish private clinics.

A practice owner may eventually spend more time on:

• hiring;
• marketing;
• finances;
• insurance;
• compliance;
• management;
• and strategy

than providing treatment.

Someone interested in entrepreneurship should understand that distinction.

Research and Academic Physical Therapy

Some PTs pursue:

• Ph.D. education;
• research;
• faculty positions;
• academic administration;
• or clinical education.

A DPT is a professional clinical doctorate.

It is not automatically the same as a research Ph.D.

Advantages of Becoming a Physical Therapist

Potential advantages include:

• median income above $100,000;
• strong 12% projected job growth;
• approximately 13,400 openings per year;
• meaningful healthcare work;
• ability to see patient improvement;
• many specialties;
• outpatient opportunities;
• hospital opportunities;
• home-health opportunities;
• private-practice potential;
• part-time opportunities;
• relatively predictable schedules in many settings;
• a physically active workday;
• direct patient relationships;
• professional autonomy;
• and opportunities for specialization.

Challenges of Becoming a Physical Therapist

Potential disadvantages include:

• lengthy education;
• DPT tuition;
• student debt;
• licensing requirements;
• NPTE examination;
• significant documentation;
• insurance restrictions;
• productivity expectations;
• working on your feet;
• physically helping patients;
• potential back strain;
• difficult or unmotivated patients;
• repetitive exercises;
• regulatory requirements;
• continuing education;
• and emotional frustration when recovery is slow.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Physical Therapist

How do I become a physical therapist?

Most future PTs complete undergraduate prerequisites and a bachelor's degree, earn a DPT from a CAPTE-accredited program, complete clinical education, pass the NPTE and meet their state's licensing requirements.

What degree do you need to become a physical therapist?

New physical therapists need a:

Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.

Do you need a bachelor's degree before physical therapy school?

Most DPT programs require one.

Some offer combined 3+3 or freshman-entry formats.

What should I major in to become a physical therapist?

There is no single mandatory major.

Common majors include:

• exercise science;
• kinesiology;
• biology;
• health science;
• and related areas.

The key is completing each DPT program's required prerequisite coursework.

What classes do you need for physical therapy school?

Common requirements include:

• anatomy;
• physiology;
• biology;
• chemistry;
• physics;
• psychology;
• and statistics.

Do you need the GRE for physical therapy school?

Not always.

APTA's 2026 PTCAS analysis found that 44% of participating programs required the GRE, while another 11% listed it as optional.

Do you need observation hours for DPT school?

Many programs do.

APTA's 2026 data found that 68% of participating programs required shadowing hours, averaging about 48 required hours among those programs.

How long does physical therapy school take?

DPT programs typically take approximately:

3 years

according to BLS.

How long does it take to become a physical therapist in total?

The traditional pathway generally takes approximately:

7 years after high school

including four years of undergraduate education and about three years of DPT education.

Accelerated pathways may be shorter.

Is physical therapy school hard?

DPT education is academically and clinically demanding.

Students study:

• anatomy;
• neuroscience;
• pharmacology;
• pathology;
• biomechanics;
• movement;
• clinical reasoning;
• and multiple rehabilitation specialties.

Clinical rotations also require students to apply that knowledge to real patients.

What is CAPTE?

CAPTE is the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.

It accredits entry-level PT and PTA education programs and is nationally recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and CHEA.

How many DPT programs are there?

CAPTE reported 353 accredited and candidacy PT programs in its 2025 program data.

Always verify the current accreditation status of a specific school.

What is the NPTE?

The National Physical Therapy Examination is the national examination used as part of the PT licensing process.

It is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.

Do you have to pass the NPTE to become a physical therapist?

U.S. jurisdictions require applicants through the standard licensure-by-examination pathway to pass the national examination, along with meeting other jurisdiction requirements.

How often is the NPTE offered?

For physical therapists, FSBPT scheduled four examination windows during 2026:

• January;
• April;
• July;
• October.

Do physical therapists need a license?

Yes.

All states require physical therapists to be licensed.

Do states have additional licensing requirements?

Yes.

Requirements may include:

• jurisprudence testing;
• background checks;
• transcripts;
• fees;
• and other state-specific requirements.

How much do physical therapists make?

The national median annual wage was:

$102,760

in May 2025.

How much do physical therapists make per hour?

The BLS national median was:

$49.40 per hour.

Can physical therapists make over $100,000?

Yes.

The national median itself is now above $100,000, and the highest 10% earned more than $135,140 in 2025.

What physical therapy setting pays the most?

Among the major settings listed by BLS, home healthcare services had the highest 2025 median at:

$114,740.

How much do hospital physical therapists make?

BLS reported a 2025 hospital median of:

$106,800.

How much do outpatient physical therapists make?

BLS reported a median of $97,160 for offices of physical, occupational and speech therapists and audiologists in 2025.

This industry category includes more than only outpatient PT offices, so it should not be interpreted as a precise salary for every outpatient PT.

Is physical therapy a growing career?

Yes.

BLS projects:

12% employment growth

from 2025 through 2035.

How many physical therapist openings are expected?

Approximately:

13,400 per year

on average from 2025 through 2035.

Why is demand for physical therapists increasing?

BLS identifies several drivers:

• aging population;
• stroke and heart-attack rehabilitation;
• increasing mobility-related conditions;
• diabetes;
• obesity;
• back pain;
• arthritis;
• and greater emphasis on nonopioid pain treatment.

Do physical therapists need a physician referral?

Not always.

All states and the District of Columbia now provide some level of direct access to PT services, but restrictions differ by jurisdiction and payer.

Can physical therapists diagnose patients?

Physical therapists evaluate patients and identify movement and functional diagnoses within their professional scope of practice.

BLS specifically describes PTs as diagnosing patients' functions and movements through examination and observation.

Exact scope-of-practice rules depend on state law.

Can physical therapists prescribe medication?

Physical therapists are not generally medication-prescribing practitioners.

Their primary interventions center on:

• exercise;
• movement;
• rehabilitation;
• physical techniques;
• patient education;
• and related interventions.

Can physical therapists order imaging?

Authority and rules vary by jurisdiction, facility and payer.

Prospective PTs should review the practice act and regulations in the state where they intend to work.

Do physical therapists work on their feet all day?

A significant portion of the day.

O*NET reports that 61% spend more than half their working time standing, with another 28% standing about half of the time.

Do physical therapists have to lift patients?

Sometimes.

BLS notes that PTs often help lift or move patients and therefore face some risk of back injuries.

Is physical therapy stressful?

It can be.

O*NET reports daily time pressure for 51% of surveyed therapists, along with substantial responsibility for decisions affecting others.

Is physical therapy good for someone who likes people?

Potentially, yes.

O*NET reports constant interpersonal contact for 94% of surveyed physical therapists.

Can physical therapists specialize?

Yes.

Physical therapists may specialize clinically, complete residencies and pursue board certification in specialty areas.

What careers are similar to physical therapy?

Related careers include:

• Occupational Therapist;
• Physical Therapist Assistant;
• Athletic Trainer;
• Exercise Physiologist;
• Speech-Language Pathologist;
• Chiropractor;
• Physician Assistant;
• Orthotist and Prosthetist;
• and Recreational Therapist.

Is Becoming a Physical Therapist Worth It?

For many people, physical therapy offers an appealing combination of:

• healthcare;
• science;
• movement;
• human interaction;
• strong income;
• and meaningful patient impact.

The numbers are attractive.

The median wage exceeds:

$102,000.

Employment is projected to grow:

12%.

The occupation is expected to add nearly:

34,000 jobs.

And BLS expects approximately:

13,400 openings every year.

Physical therapists can work with:

• professional athletes;
• children;
• older adults;
• stroke survivors;
• surgical patients;
• people with chronic pain;
• neurologic patients;
• and almost every population in between.

The tradeoff is education.

Physical therapy is no longer a career you can enter with a bachelor's degree.

A DPT requires years of science prerequisites, graduate professional education, clinical training and licensure.

The financial cost can also be significant.

That means it makes little sense to choose physical therapy simply because:

"I like exercise."

You should understand whether you actually enjoy:

• patient interaction;
• anatomy;
• healthcare;
• rehabilitation;
• physical contact;
• teaching;
• documentation;
• standing;
• and motivating people who may be frustrated or in pain.

The Bottom Line: Should You Become a Physical Therapist?

Physical Therapist is one of the strongest healthcare careers for someone who wants to combine:

• science;
• people;
• movement;
• problem solving;
• physical activity;
• and visible patient outcomes.

You can help someone walk after a stroke.

You can help an athlete return to competition.

You can help an older adult remain independent.

You can help someone move without constant pain.

You can help a patient return to work after surgery.

Those outcomes can make the profession extremely rewarding.

But the career also requires:

• a doctoral professional degree;
• clinical education;
• licensing;
• continuing education;
• physical stamina;
• extensive interaction;
• documentation;
• and substantial educational investment.

Before selecting a DPT program, make sure you are choosing a career that matches more than your academic abilities.

Find out whether Physical Therapist matches who you are.

Take the Free MAPP Assessment and use your 10 Free Career Matches to compare Physical Therapist with hundreds of other career possibilities.

See:

• how strongly Physical Therapist matches you;
• why it matches;
• what you are likely to enjoy;
• what you may dislike;
• how to become one;
• DPT education requirements;
• salary;
• job outlook;
• educational pathways;
• related careers;
• and available jobs.

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