Interested in becoming a physical therapist? Are you wondering what it would take to break into this rewarding healthcare career?
If so, you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll talk about what physical therapists do on a daily basis and give you a step-by-step process that will help you reach your career goals.
What Does a Physical Therapist Do?
Physical therapists work with patients who are recovering from an injury or illness that has left them with limited mobility. Their goal is to help these patients heal properly and regain full range of motion.
Physical therapists must be compassionate, patient, and enjoy working with people. They have an excellent understanding of the human body, as well as various exercises that will help restore strength and reduce pain levels.
Additional physical therapist job duties include:
- creating treatment plans
- guiding patients through mobility exercises
- tracking patient progress
Physical therapists work with patients of varying ages and skill levels. They may work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation facilities, sports training facilities, schools, and private residences.
Depending on their place of employment, physical therapists may have to work long hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Does this sound like a career for you? Keep reading to find out the steps to become a physical therapist.
Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor's Degree
To become physical therapist, first you will need to have a bachelor's degree. Your degree can be in any field as long as you graduate with the necessary prerequisites to enter a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.
These prerequisites vary from program to program, so it's a good idea to think ahead about which DPT program you hope to enter.
Find out the prerequisites that specific program requires, then take those classes while working on your undergraduate degree.
Though it's okay to major in any subject that interests you, most future physical therapists get their bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, sports medicine, or a related area.
Some schools even offer a specialized pre-physical therapy degree program.
Step 2: Complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree
Once you have your bachelor's degree, you'll need to apply for a Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
This highly specialized doctoral program will teach advanced topics such as medical imaging, biomechanics, and pathophysiology. It will also allow students plenty of hands-on training through supervised clinical experience.
Most DPT programs take three to four years to complete. Some schools offer flexible online coursework options and evening or weekend clinical rotations, enabling busy working students to pursue their career goals on a schedule that works for them.
Step 3: Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination
Upon completing your DPT program, you will need to become nationally certified before you can begin practicing as a physical therapist.
You obtain this certification by passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). This test is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.
The test consists of 250 multiple choice questions, and you need to score 600 or above to pass the exam. It is offered at four set times each year.
Step 4: Get Licensed
Most states require physical therapists to obtain a state license after they have passed the NPTE. Licensing requirements vary from state to state.
Generally speaking, you will need to pass one or more background checks, provide proof of education, and submit your passing score on the NPTE. You may also need to complete additional training.
You will also need to fill out an application and may have to pay a licensing fee. Once you have done all of this, you will be licensed to work within your state and can begin looking for your first job.
Step 5: Enter a Residency and Get Board Certified
Residencies and board certification are both optional, but they are both great ways to help you improve your chances of landing your first job as a physical therapist.
A residency program will provide additional training and clinical experience, allowing you to hone your skills in real-world settings. They also enable you to explore areas of physical therapy you might be interested in specializing in.
Once you gain at least 2,000 hours of field experience, either through a residency or your first job, you'll be eligible to sit for board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties.
This additional credential will help your resume stand out from the crowd.
Your Path to Becoming a Physical Therapist
Being able to work with recovering patients on their road back to health is truly rewarding for many people.
If you would like to enter this career, follow the steps outlined above to become a physical therapist.
