The road to your PT future
Becoming a physical therapist (PT) requires a commitment to both rigorous education and hands-on clinical experience. How to become a PT involves a series of steps, starting with earning a bachelor’s degree in a related field. After completing your undergraduate degree, you will need to enroll in a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.
According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), to become a licensed physical therapist in the U.S., you must complete a CAPTE-accredited DPT program and pass the state licensure exam, along with any state-specific requirements. This pathway outlines what education is required to become a physical therapist, ensuring you meet the educational requirements for physical therapy. The Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS) simplifies the application process for many PT programs and offers valuable resources on DPT programs, including specific program details and admissions requirements. To learn more about how ATSU’s program can help you reach your goals, visit our PT Department page.
Frequently asked questions
Find answers to common questions about how to become a PT, including educational requirements, program details, and career prospects. Whether you’re just starting your journey or preparing to apply, these insights will help guide you through the process of becoming a licensed PT.
What education is required to become a physical therapist?
To become a physical therapist, you must complete two main educational requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree: this is the first step. While you can earn your degree in any area, courses in biology, anatomy, and kinesiology are essential to prepare students for the more advanced study in physical therapy school. These courses are educational requirements for physical therapy.
- Doctor of Physical Therapy program: the next step is to enroll in a DPT program. At A.T. Still University, for example, the curriculum is designed to integrate clinical experiences throughout the program, culminating in capstone projects and hands-on patient care in settings such as musculoskeletal, neurological, and specialty areas. This advanced training ensures you are well-prepared for direct patient care, a key component of how to become a PT.
How long does it take to become a PT?
If you’re thinking of pursuing a career in PT, you’re probably wondering, how long does it take to become a PT? The journey to becoming a licensed physical therapist typically takes about 7 years in total. The timeline includes:
- Bachelor’s degree: on average, completing a bachelor’s degree in a related field takes four years. This provides the foundation in the sciences that is essential for understanding human movement and physical function. It also meets the educational requirements for physical therapy.
- Doctor of Physical Therapy program: you will spend three years in a DPT program. This stage includes both didactic coursework and clinical practice. Students spend time in hands-on settings, treating patients under the supervision of experienced clinicians, which is a crucial part of how long it takes to become a PT.
Do you need a doctorate to be a physical therapist?
A Doctor of Physical Therapy degree is an educational requirement for anyone wondering how to become a physical therapist and practice in the United States. The DPT degree equips students with a deep understanding of movement science, patient care techniques, and evidence-based clinical decision-making. While some might consider pursuing a PhD in physical therapy for a focus on research or teaching, the DPT is the professional doctorate specifically designed to prepare students for direct patient care and practice in clinical settings. So, how to become a PT involves obtaining a DPT degree, which is necessary to become a practicing PT in the U.S. Do you need a doctorate to be a physical therapist? Yes, a doctorate is essential for becoming a licensed PT. The DPT program is comprehensive, combining theory with practical experience to ensure PTs are ready for real-world challenges.
A career as a physical therapist
Becoming a physical therapist is a rewarding and challenging journey that requires both academic dedication and hands-on clinical experience. By earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, individuals gain the knowledge and skills necessary to help people improve mobility, manage pain, and enhance their overall quality of life. The typical path to becoming a PT takes 7 years and requires both and undergraduate degree and a doctorate to practice. The DPT program at ATSU, accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), provides a comprehensive education that blends rigorous coursework with extensive clinical training. This 3-year program prepares students to excel in diverse clinical settings, equipping them with the tools to make a lasting impact on their patients’ health and well-being. Whether you’re wondering how long does it take to become a PT or considering the educational requirements for physical therapy, the path to becoming a physical therapist is well-defined and ultimately rewarding for those dedicated to helping others. Connect with ATSU Admissions at admissions@atsu.edu or call 866.626.2878 to learn how you can begin your path to becoming a physical therapist today.