Introduction
Physical therapy is a growing field with a high demand for qualified professionals. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in physical therapy, it’s important to understand the length and requirements of physical therapy school. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know, from the typical timeline for completing physical therapy education to what to expect in an internship and licensing exam. We’ll also provide advice for potential students who are considering a career in physical therapy.
Understanding the Length of Physical Therapy School: A Comprehensive Guide
Before we dive into the details of physical therapy school, it’s important to understand the entire process of physical therapy education. Physical therapists are required to have at least a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and pass a licensing exam in order to practice. This degree can typically take anywhere from 6 to 7 years to complete.
In order to become a licensed physical therapist, you must first graduate from an accredited physical therapy program. These programs can vary in length depending on the level of degree you’re pursuing. For example, a typical undergraduate degree in physical therapy can take 4 years to complete, while a DPT program can take an additional 2-3 years after undergraduate studies.
During physical therapy school, students are required to take courses in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, neurology, pharmacology, and pathology, and training in exercise therapy and therapeutic techniques. They will also have to complete a certain amount of clinical education, which can take anywhere from 30 to 36 weeks.
The length of physical therapy school can also vary depending on the program chosen. Some programs include a combination of undergraduate and doctoral degree programs, while others offer an accelerated program to achieve a DPT degree in a shorter amount of time.
Is Physical Therapy School Right for You? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’re considering a career in physical therapy, it’s important to understand the curriculum and clinical education in physical therapy programs. Clinical education is an important part of the curriculum, as it provides students with hands-on experience working with patients and applying the knowledge gained in the classroom.
In addition to the curriculum, it’s important to consider factors such as job outlook and salary when deciding whether or not to commit to physical therapy school. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for physical therapists is projected to grow 28% from 2016 to 2026, making it a stable and consistent field. The median annual salary for physical therapists is also higher than the national average, coming in at $89,440 per year in 2019.
If physical therapy school seems like the right fit for you, it’s important to be prepared for the rigorous program ahead. You can start by shadowing a physical therapist, volunteering in a physical therapy setting, and preparing for the program’s demands academically.
Breaking Down the Years: The Different Programs in Physical Therapy Education
There are several paths to becoming a physical therapist. The most common path is to pursue an undergraduate degree in physical therapy, followed by a doctoral degree. Some programs may combine the two degrees, with the student receiving both a bachelor’s and doctoral degree within a 6-7 year program.
Accelerated programs are also available. These programs typically take three years of intense study to complete. While these programs allow graduates to enter the workforce faster, they often require a more rigorous pace and can be more challenging than a traditional path.
It’s important to consider the differences in course requirements and internship experiences in each program. Some may require more or less clinical education, which can affect the length of time spent in school.
Navigating the Timeline: Tips for Surviving Physical Therapy School
Physical therapy school can be challenging, but with the right mindset and habits, you can succeed. We interviewed a physical therapy student to gain insight into how to manage time, stress, and study habits.
One study tip included setting study goals that are attainable, focus on practicing problem-solving skills, and making use of resources in the school library. Ensure that you prioritize taking care of yourself by getting enough sleep, eating well, and getting physical exercise.
The Pros and Cons of Accelerated Physical Therapy Programs
Accelerated programs for physical therapy are a great option for students who want to enter the workforce sooner. These programs often have increased workload, standardized schedules, and less vacation time than traditional programs.
Students who opt for the accelerated program may have less time to develop emotional connections with classmates or instructors, engage in extracurricular activities, or perform additional research into the field.
Specializing in Physical Therapy: How It Affects Your Education Timeline
For those who want to specialize in a certain area of physical therapy, such as sports medicine or pediatrics, additional education may be required and the length of education may be increased.
Physical therapists can become board-certified by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) by completing an advanced residency program in a specialized area and pass the specialty certification exam.
Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of a Physical Therapy Student
To get a better understanding of what it’s like to be a physical therapy student, we followed a student through their daily routine of classes, studying, and internships. Physical therapy students typically spend a large amount of time in class, followed by clinical education or studying. Students usually spend 40-50 hours per week in class, lab, or clinical settings.
Conclusion
Physical therapy school can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By understanding the length and requirements of physical therapy education and preparing accordingly, you can achieve your dream of becoming a physical therapist. With a stable job outlook, higher-than-average salary, and a variety of paths available, physical therapy may be the perfect career choice for you.
