What Courses Are Needed to Become a Physical Therapist?
Physical therapists are medical professionals who work with people suffering from serious injuries and pain. Among the work that physical therapists perform are helping people with improving their motor skills, applying hot and cold compresses, and performing therapeutic massage. A person interested in this field needs to take a variety of courses to become a physical therapist.
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Bachelor's Degree
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While a bachelor's degree is required to be a physical therapist, the degree does not have to be in the natural sciences; however, courses in physics, anatomy, mathematics, chemistry and biology are required to become a physical therapist.
Therapist Education
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After finishing college, people enter a master's degree program (typically 2 years), taking physical therapy courses and laboratory classes in the natural sciences, as well as specialized courses in therapeutic procedures, examination techniques and sports medicine.
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Clinical Work
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Once undergraduate- and graduate-level courses have been completed, physical therapy students complete supervised clinical work.
Licenses
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Students must complete all of their coursework and receive their diplomas before receiving a license to practice physical therapy in their state. They must also pass state and national licensing examinations.
Continuing Education
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Physical therapists continue taking courses after they receive their diplomas and pass the licensing exams. These courses present opportunities for professional development and career advancement in the field, including instruction on business and administration.
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