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What is my career-plan for becoming a physical therapist?
I want to become a physical therapist but I want to plan now so I know what to expect when I actually start to go through that plan.
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Doc’s Answer
Jordan to become a physical therapist, you must earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, so the first step to becoming a licensed physical therapist is to earn your bachelor’s degree. Your bachelor's degree doesn't need to be in physical therapy, but many you may want to choose a health field related to it, such as biology, chemistry, or physiology.
After earning your Bachelor's degree your next step is to enroll in and complete an accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. DPT degree programs begin with didactic courses in pathophysiology, imaging, biomechanics, anatomy, and more.
After you obtain your doctoral degree, your next step is to become licensed in the state where you will want to practice. In order to become a licensed physical therapist, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), which is given by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT), this is a computer-administered exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions split into five sections.
After becoming licensed and gaining work experience in the field, physical therapists have the opportunity to become board-certified clinical specialists through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS). There are ten specialty areas of physical therapy: Cardiovascular and Pulmonary, Clinical Electrophysiology, Geriatrics, Neurology, Oncology, Orthopedics, Pediatrics, Sports, Wound Management, and Women’s Health.
Physical therapy is a rewarding career path Jordan, you’ll have the opportunity to change people’s lives.
Hope this was helpful
After earning your Bachelor's degree your next step is to enroll in and complete an accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. DPT degree programs begin with didactic courses in pathophysiology, imaging, biomechanics, anatomy, and more.
After you obtain your doctoral degree, your next step is to become licensed in the state where you will want to practice. In order to become a licensed physical therapist, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), which is given by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT), this is a computer-administered exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions split into five sections.
After becoming licensed and gaining work experience in the field, physical therapists have the opportunity to become board-certified clinical specialists through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS). There are ten specialty areas of physical therapy: Cardiovascular and Pulmonary, Clinical Electrophysiology, Geriatrics, Neurology, Oncology, Orthopedics, Pediatrics, Sports, Wound Management, and Women’s Health.
Physical therapy is a rewarding career path Jordan, you’ll have the opportunity to change people’s lives.
Hope this was helpful
Updated
Jody’s Answer
Hello Jordan,
It's truly inspiring to hear that you're driven to become a healer in our world. I would suggest you take a step towards your dream by visiting local hospitals, perhaps even more than one, and specifically head to the Physical Therapy department. Don't hesitate to introduce yourself. Share your ambition with them - let them know you're interested in learning about their journey to becoming a physical therapist, perhaps for a school assignment you're working on.
Don't hold back on your questions - the more you ask, the more you learn. Make sure to jot down their responses for future reference. This will not only aid you on your path but also come in handy if you're ever asked to write a paper on your chosen career. You'll have all the information you need right at your fingertips.
Jordan, I commend your aspiration! Our world is in dire need of more healers like you. As a former rugby player for two decades, I can tell you firsthand how valuable physical therapists are. I only wish I had started my sessions with one 20 years ago.
Keep up the good work, and cheers to your future!
It's truly inspiring to hear that you're driven to become a healer in our world. I would suggest you take a step towards your dream by visiting local hospitals, perhaps even more than one, and specifically head to the Physical Therapy department. Don't hesitate to introduce yourself. Share your ambition with them - let them know you're interested in learning about their journey to becoming a physical therapist, perhaps for a school assignment you're working on.
Don't hold back on your questions - the more you ask, the more you learn. Make sure to jot down their responses for future reference. This will not only aid you on your path but also come in handy if you're ever asked to write a paper on your chosen career. You'll have all the information you need right at your fingertips.
Jordan, I commend your aspiration! Our world is in dire need of more healers like you. As a former rugby player for two decades, I can tell you firsthand how valuable physical therapists are. I only wish I had started my sessions with one 20 years ago.
Keep up the good work, and cheers to your future!
Updated
Emma’s Answer
Begin by earning a bachelor's degree in a related field and gaining experience in healthcare settings. Focus on maintaining a competitive GPA and meeting admission requirements for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs, which typically take three years to complete and include both classroom and clinical training. Upon graduation, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to become a licensed physical therapist.
After licensure, consider pursuing specialization or advanced certifications in areas that align with your interests, such as orthopedics or pediatrics. Your career will likely begin with entry-level positions, but as you gain experience and expertise, opportunities for advancement and specialization will become available. It's essential to stay current with industry developments through continuing education and involvement in professional associations like the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). Networking, mentorship, and personal growth should also be part of your long-term career plan to help you excel in the dynamic and rewarding field of physical therapy.
After licensure, consider pursuing specialization or advanced certifications in areas that align with your interests, such as orthopedics or pediatrics. Your career will likely begin with entry-level positions, but as you gain experience and expertise, opportunities for advancement and specialization will become available. It's essential to stay current with industry developments through continuing education and involvement in professional associations like the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). Networking, mentorship, and personal growth should also be part of your long-term career plan to help you excel in the dynamic and rewarding field of physical therapy.
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
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