APTA is Recruiting the Next Generation of Physical Therapists – Is That You?

Physical therapists are movement experts who improve quality of life through prescribed exercise, hands-on care, and patient education. But PT's are so much more than this, too - listen to what they have to say:

Physical therapists diagnose and treat individuals of all ages, from newborns to people at the end of life. Many patients have injuries, disabilities, or other health conditions that need treatment. But PTs also care for people who simply want to become healthier and to prevent future problems.

Physical therapists examine each person and then develop a treatment plan to improve their ability to move, reduce or manage pain, restore function, and prevent disability.

Physical therapists can have a profound effect on people’s lives. They help people achieve fitness goals, regain or maintain their independence, and lead active lives. Check out the video below to get an idea of the power physical therapy can have!

Physical Therapist Education

To practice as a physical therapist in the U.S., you must earn a doctor of physical therapy degree from a Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education-accredited physical therapist education program and pass a state licensure exam.

The length of professional DPT programs is typically three years. Primary content areas in the curriculum may include, but are not limited to, biology/anatomy, cellular histology, physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, neuroscience, pharmacology, pathology, behavioral sciences, communication, ethics/values, management sciences, finance, sociology, clinical reasoning, evidence-based practice, cardiovascular and pulmonary, endocrine and metabolic, and musculoskeletal.

Approximately 80% of the DPT curriculum is classroom (didactic) and lab study and the remaining 20% is dedicated to clinical education. PT students spend on average 27.5 weeks in their final clinical experience.

Head to our website to learn more about careers as a physical therapist!

Ready to Apply? Learn About PTCAS!

Are you ready to apply to a doctor of physical therapy program to become a physical therapist?

PTCAS, the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service provided by APTA, allows DPT program applicants to use a single online application and one set of materials to apply to multiple education programs.

Most, but not all professional DPT programs, participate in PTCAS. Applicants who wish to apply to a nonparticipating PTCAS program must apply directly to the institution using the DPT program's local application.

You should research DPT programs via the PTCAS Program Directory to determine the ones that best meet your needs and start preparing to apply early.