Physical therapists use massage and other forms of therapy to help clients heal.
Physical therapy is one of the fastest growing job fields, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The bureau expects the number of jobs in this field to increase by 30 percent from 2008 to 2018. Physical therapists made a median salary of $74,480, according to May 2009 figures. Physical therapists need to obtain extensive education and hands-on training in order to be effective and legally work in their profession.
Bachelor's Degree Requirements
A physical therapist is required to have a bachelor's degree, but this is not enough to work in the field of physical therapy. Accreditation of physical therapy programs is determined by the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, CAPTE only accredits graduate physical therapy programs. Furthermore, eligibility to take the National Physical Therapy Examination requires he completion of an accredited physical therapy degree program. A bachelor's degree in a field like exercise science, kinesiology or biology can provide aspiring physical therapists with the education they need to get into a graduate degree program.
Master's Degree
It is possible to work as a physical therapist with a master's degree, but there are some limitations to pursuing a master's degree in physical therapy. First, there are only a limited number of degree programs at the master's degree level that are CAPTE-accredited. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that of the 212 accredited programs, only 12 are master's degree programs. The opportunity to pursue a master's degree is limited. Furthermore, the length of time it takes to complete a master's degree is only slightly shorter than what it takes to complete a doctorate.
Doctorate
The most common entry-level degree for physical therapists is the Doctor of Physical Therapy or DPT. These programs typically take only about three years to complete, compared to the two to 2.5 years for a master's degree. As of 2009, there were 200 CAPTE-accredited programs nationwide, making it much easier to find a program at that level. Clinical therapy degree programs cover a wide range of areas, including science courses and clinical training. Science courses include areas like neuroscience, biology, biomechanics, physiology and exercise physiology. Clinical training is necessary in areas such as medical screening, diagnostic processes and various types of therapeutic interventions.
Licensing
Physical therapists need to obtain a license in addition to their graduate degree in order to work legally. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that the eligibility requirements for licensing vary by state. In most cases, physical therapists must pass the national licensing exam and state exams covering the legal aspects of physical therapy practice.
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