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I'm interested in the field of Physical Therapy and Exercise Sciences and would like to know what the job outlook of these careers?
I think it's important to look at the job outlook so you can look into job security and make sure it's a stable job after graduation.
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4 answers
Updated
Cheri’s Answer
Hello Allison,
The future appears promising for those interested in a career in physical therapy. It's projected that the employment rate for physical therapists will surge by 14 percent from 2023 to 2033, a growth rate significantly higher than most occupations. Furthermore, an annual average of approximately 13,000 job openings for physical therapists is anticipated over the next ten years. This increase can be attributed to the fact that people are living longer and maintaining active lifestyles, thereby expanding the demand for physical therapy services.
In addition to the physical demands of a career in physical therapy, some may argue that the compensation does not adequately reflect the level of education required to enter the field. The average annual salary for a seasoned therapist ranges from $85,000 to $95,000. However, those who are newly graduated can expect a somewhat lower income.
Another appealing aspect of a career in physical therapy is its flexibility. There are various work arrangements available, including full-time, part-time, temporary, or even traveling positions. As a traveling therapist, you'll have the opportunity to work in different locations every three months, with the travel company covering your housing and travel costs.
The future appears promising for those interested in a career in physical therapy. It's projected that the employment rate for physical therapists will surge by 14 percent from 2023 to 2033, a growth rate significantly higher than most occupations. Furthermore, an annual average of approximately 13,000 job openings for physical therapists is anticipated over the next ten years. This increase can be attributed to the fact that people are living longer and maintaining active lifestyles, thereby expanding the demand for physical therapy services.
In addition to the physical demands of a career in physical therapy, some may argue that the compensation does not adequately reflect the level of education required to enter the field. The average annual salary for a seasoned therapist ranges from $85,000 to $95,000. However, those who are newly graduated can expect a somewhat lower income.
Another appealing aspect of a career in physical therapy is its flexibility. There are various work arrangements available, including full-time, part-time, temporary, or even traveling positions. As a traveling therapist, you'll have the opportunity to work in different locations every three months, with the travel company covering your housing and travel costs.
Updated
Mbah Wai-Tanyi’s Answer
Hi Allison,
Physical Therapy and Exercise Sciences are rewarding fields with promising job outlooks. Here's an overview:
Physical Therapy:
1. Job Title: Physical Therapist (PT)
2. Median Salary (2022): $91,440 (USA)
3. Growth Rate (2020-2030): 22% (faster than average)
4. Job Outlook: Excellent demand due to an aging population and increased focus on healthcare.
Exercise Sciences:
1. Job Titles: Exercise Physiologist, Fitness Director, Exercise Scientist
2. Median Salary (2022): $60,000-$80,000 (USA)
3. Growth Rate (2020-2030): 11% (faster than average)
4. Job Outlook: Strong demand in fitness centers, hospitals, and research institutions.
Specialized Roles:
1. Sports Physical Therapist: $80,000-$120,000
2. Orthopedic Physical Therapist: $85,000-$130,000
3. Pediatric Physical Therapist: $70,000-$110,000
4. Exercise Physiologist (cardiac rehab): $60,000-$90,000
Industry Outlook:
1. Healthcare: Hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers
2. Fitness: Gyms, studios, wellness centers
3. Research: Universities, institutes, government agencies
4. Sports: Professional teams, colleges, sports medicine facilities
*Education and Certification:*
1. Physical Therapy: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, licensure
2. Exercise Sciences: Bachelor's or Master's degree, certifications (e.g., ACE, NSCA)
Key Skills:
1. Communication and patient care
2. Clinical reasoning and problem-solving
3. Exercise prescription and program design
4. Research and data analysis
5. Leadership and teamwork
Professional Organizations:
1. American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
2. National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
3. American Council on Exercise (ACE)
4. National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
Allison, with a strong foundation in Physical Therapy and Exercise Sciences, you'll have a bright career prospects.
Physical Therapy and Exercise Sciences are rewarding fields with promising job outlooks. Here's an overview:
Physical Therapy:
1. Job Title: Physical Therapist (PT)
2. Median Salary (2022): $91,440 (USA)
3. Growth Rate (2020-2030): 22% (faster than average)
4. Job Outlook: Excellent demand due to an aging population and increased focus on healthcare.
Exercise Sciences:
1. Job Titles: Exercise Physiologist, Fitness Director, Exercise Scientist
2. Median Salary (2022): $60,000-$80,000 (USA)
3. Growth Rate (2020-2030): 11% (faster than average)
4. Job Outlook: Strong demand in fitness centers, hospitals, and research institutions.
Specialized Roles:
1. Sports Physical Therapist: $80,000-$120,000
2. Orthopedic Physical Therapist: $85,000-$130,000
3. Pediatric Physical Therapist: $70,000-$110,000
4. Exercise Physiologist (cardiac rehab): $60,000-$90,000
Industry Outlook:
1. Healthcare: Hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers
2. Fitness: Gyms, studios, wellness centers
3. Research: Universities, institutes, government agencies
4. Sports: Professional teams, colleges, sports medicine facilities
*Education and Certification:*
1. Physical Therapy: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, licensure
2. Exercise Sciences: Bachelor's or Master's degree, certifications (e.g., ACE, NSCA)
Key Skills:
1. Communication and patient care
2. Clinical reasoning and problem-solving
3. Exercise prescription and program design
4. Research and data analysis
5. Leadership and teamwork
Professional Organizations:
1. American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
2. National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
3. American Council on Exercise (ACE)
4. National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
Allison, with a strong foundation in Physical Therapy and Exercise Sciences, you'll have a bright career prospects.
Updated
bill’s Answer
Physical Therapy is a good career choice, but it does have its limitations, particularly in terms of income. While there are jobs available, the starting pay is often not high. On the other hand, becoming an X-Ray technician with MRI certification could potentially offer a higher income and a more fulfilling career. Exercise physiology is another option, but it usually leads to jobs in gyms. You'll experience a lot of exercise physiology in Physical Therapy studies. As a young person, there are many career paths to consider. The key is to find something that truly sparks your interest.
Updated
Amanda’s Answer
Hello Allison!
The landscape of this profession is indeed teeming with graduates who are yet to secure a job in their chosen field. I've personally witnessed numerous individuals with this degree, who had to pivot and venture into careers outside of physical therapy or exercise science. Should you decide to tread this path, it's essential that you harbor the determination to go above and beyond, to distinguish yourself from the crowd. My intention is not to dissuade you, but rather to provide a realistic perspective based on my own experiences. Pursuing this can be quite an investment, both in terms of finances and time spent in education, and sometimes the rewards might not seem proportional to the effort and resources invested. Regardless, I wish you nothing but success in whatever path you choose to embark upon!
The landscape of this profession is indeed teeming with graduates who are yet to secure a job in their chosen field. I've personally witnessed numerous individuals with this degree, who had to pivot and venture into careers outside of physical therapy or exercise science. Should you decide to tread this path, it's essential that you harbor the determination to go above and beyond, to distinguish yourself from the crowd. My intention is not to dissuade you, but rather to provide a realistic perspective based on my own experiences. Pursuing this can be quite an investment, both in terms of finances and time spent in education, and sometimes the rewards might not seem proportional to the effort and resources invested. Regardless, I wish you nothing but success in whatever path you choose to embark upon!