Requirements to Become a Physical Therapist
Physical therapists (PTs) are medical professionals who treat individuals with muscular, skeletal or neurological conditions that affect their mobility or ability to complete everyday tasks. PTs must be licensed to practice by their state licensing board.
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Bachelor's Degree
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To gain admission to a PT training program, individuals must first complete a bachelor's degree, preferably with emphasis in social or physical science.
Master's Degree in PT
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Master's degree PT programs leading to eligibility for licensure as a PT last approximately two years and include clinical practicum and classroom work.
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Doctorate in PT
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The majority of PT training programs lead to a doctorate and last from two to three years, depending upon the specific school's requirements and calendar.
Licensure Examination
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To qualify for a PT license, graduates must get a passing score on the National Physical Therapist Exam (NPTE) that is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.
Continuing Education
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To maintain a current license, PTs must fulfill the requirements for continuing education as determined by their state's professional licensing board.
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