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Physical Therapist Job Description

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Overview

physical therapist
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Steps to take to start your career as a Physical Therapist and other jobs like it

  • Most physical therapy programs require a bachelor’s degree including specific prerequisite courses in areas like anatomy, physiology, and psychology. Knowing the prerequisites before choosing what to study will save you having to complete those courses later.
  • Earning a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as biology, kinesiology, exercise science, or a science focused major will likely include most if not all required physical therapy program prerequisite courses. You can however complete any undergraduate major and add on the additional prerequisite courses
  • Apply to accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy programs. (Need a bachelor's degree & prerequisite classes) DPT programs in the USA typically take around three years and involve both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical rotations under the supervision of experienced physical therapists.
  • After graduating from a DPT program, you'll need to pass the NPTE to become licensed. This exam assesses your knowledge and skills in the field. Each state may have specific licensing requirements, so be sure to check in your desired location for work.
  • Physical therapists can choose to specialize in areas such as orthopedics, sports, neurology, or pediatrics. This will likely involve additional training and or certifications.
Hear from someone who’s had the job or one like it
"Do you love science and are interested in a career in the medical field? Physical therapy might just be the dream job you've been looking for. Learn more about what it’s really like to be a physical therapist from an expert in the field."
Career Video Transcript
Examples of Current Open Physical Therapist Positions
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  • Top Cities for Physical Therapist
    • indeedImg
    Avg Pay: $114K
    Jobs: 0
    glassdoor
    Avg Pay: $82K
    Jobs: 12,828

    Education you need to become a Physical Therapist

    These are the most common degrees or certificates earned by Jobtrees users prior to becoming a Physical Therapist

    There may be other required degrees or certifications needed for this job. The below info shows you the most commonly desired education level from employers when hiring for this job.

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    Annual Pay Estimate for Physical Therapist and Other Important Info

    See how many years Physical Therapist's are in their job, how much they make, how long it took to get there and how available this job is in terms of open positions.

    5.3 years
    $98K
    2.93 years
    Mid
    4
    328 out of 4000

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    Career Paths for Physical Therapist

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    Jobs to start your career in becoming a Physical Therapist

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