Education Required to Become a Physical Therapist
To become a physical therapist, a person must usually obtain a graduate degree. In most cases, a person will be required to hold a doctorate degree in physical therapy. College programs in physical therapy are typically a combination of coursework and clinical rotations. Additionally, states require individuals to be licensed to legally work in this career.
Education Required for Physical Therapist
Undergraduate Education
Prospective physical therapists have options in areas of study at the undergraduate level. A student may choose to enroll in a major that includes significant science coursework, such as biology, anatomy and physiology. Alternatively, some schools offer a pre-physical therapy major in their health and physical education departments. These curricula may require courses in science and health-related topics, including exercise physiology, physical education methods and personal wellness.
Graduate Education
Physical therapists need a graduate degree. Doctoral programs are in greater supply, but some master's programs are available. These programs have varying requirements for admittance, which may include minimum standards for grade point average, standardized test scores or volunteer hours. Many programs also have prerequisite coursework requirements.
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs train students in the procedures of diagnosis and treatment. Coursework covers topics in anatomy and procedures in physical therapy, such as therapeutic applications and exercise. Some DPT programs include integration and assessment courses that allow students to apply the techniques they've learned through simulations.
Clinical clerkships in DPT programs place students in healthcare facilities under the supervision of licensed physical therapists. Students may undergo an introductory practicum where they observe a workplace. Some clerkships may be part-time and integrated with coursework, while more advanced clerkships are full-time. These experiences cover different methods of physical therapy, including rehabilitation and acute care.
Students may consider programs that are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). This organization is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council on Higher Education Accreditation as the only accrediting agency for physical therapy programs. According to the CAPTE, graduating from an accredited program is required to sit for a licensing exam (www.capteonline.org).
Licensing Information
Besides graduating from an accredited program, states typically require a passing score on the National Physical Therapy Examination as part of the licensing requirements. Many states require a jurisprudence exam that tests individuals on the laws of that state. To remain licensed, continuing education standards may need to be met.
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