How to Become a Physical Therapist: Your Complete Guide

Thinking about a career in physical therapy? You’re not alone! Physical therapists (PTs) are in high demand, making a real difference in people’s lives by helping them recover from injuries, manage pain, and regain mobility. Here’s everything you need to know to start your journey toward becoming a physical therapist.

What Does a Physical Therapist Do?

Physical therapists are movement experts who assess, diagnose, and treat individuals with physical impairments, disabilities, or limitations. They develop personalized treatment plans to restore function, reduce pain, and improve quality of life for their patients. PTs work with people of all ages, from newborns to seniors, and treat a wide range of conditions—from sports injuries and post-surgical rehab to neurological disorders and chronic illnesses.

• Evaluating patients’ movement and function
• Developing customized treatment plans
• Using exercises, hands-on therapy, and equipment to aid recovery
• Educating patients and families about managing conditions
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals

As noted on the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) website, the publisher of PT Magazine in October 1999, included an editorial that stated:

“Physical therapists are good people to know. They’re educated in understanding the interaction of all your body parts. Their hands-on approach begins with examination, diagnosis, and treatment of the immediate problem. Then they teach you how to take care of yourself by showing you how to do exercises and how to use your body properly to gain strength and mobility and prevent recurring injury. You’ll find them advising on proper posture and body motion in the workplace, treating injuries, consulting on fitness, and administering physical therapy in the home. Today physical therapists provide help for every part of the body to everyone from infants to the elderly – more than 1 million people every day!”

Physical Therapist Salary and Job Outlook

Are you wondering how much money a physical therapist makes? According to salary.com the median expected salary for a typical licensed Physical Therapist in the United States is $74,917.(salary.com) In North America, you may see salaries varying anywhere from $55,000 to $85,000 a year, and it is becoming more common to see individuals able to command salaries in the 6 figures. The upper end of this spectrum is less often achieved by 9 to 5 therapists working only with patients. More commonly these 6 figure salaries are made by individuals involved in other activities outside of patient treatment, such as teaching or owning a clinic.

Physical Therapist Education Requirements

Becoming a physical therapist takes dedication and several years of education. If you’re wondering “how to become a physical therapist,” here’s the typical path:

• Bachelor’s Degree: First, earn a bachelor’s degree (usually in a science-related field).
• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program: Next, complete an accredited DPT program, which typically takes three years and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
• Physical Therapy Licensure: After graduation, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and meet your state’s licensing requirements.

Some PTs choose to pursue residency programs or board certifications in specialties like orthopedics, sports, neurology, or pediatrics for advanced expertise. If you’re searching for “physical therapy degree requirements” or “DPT program prerequisites,” be sure to check the specific guidelines for each school.

Tips for the Physical Therapy School Interview

The interview is a crucial part of the physical therapy school application process, and nearly all programs include it as a key step. Here’s how to prepare and stand out during your interview:

• Demonstrate a Broad Understanding of Physical Therapy: While many applicants come from physical education backgrounds, it’s important not to focus solely on sports or athletics during your interview. Physical therapy is a diverse field that encompasses much more than working with athletes. Interviewers are looking for candidates who recognize the wide range of specialties and patient populations in the profession.
• Do Your Research: Before your interview, take time to learn about the different areas of physical therapy—such as geriatrics, pediatrics, neurology, orthopedics, and acute care. Be ready to discuss various settings where physical therapists work and show that you have a comprehensive understanding of the profession.
• Gain Relevant Experience: Hands-on experience is highly valued, whether through volunteering or paid positions. Seek opportunities in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, or with individuals with disabilities. Try to gain exposure to areas of physical therapy you know the least about, as this demonstrates your initiative and curiosity.
• Highlight Your Interpersonal Skills: Physical therapists interact closely with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals. Use your interview to showcase your communication and ‘people skills,’ emphasizing the importance of building strong therapeutic relationships in patient recovery.
• Be Authentic and Prepared: Above all, be yourself. Interviewers appreciate honesty and authenticity. Prepare thoroughly so you can answer questions confidently, but don’t try to present a version of yourself you think they want to see. Genuine enthusiasm, preparation, and self-awareness will help you make a lasting impression.

By approaching your interview with a well-rounded understanding of physical therapy, relevant experience, and strong interpersonal skills, you’ll demonstrate that you’re prepared for the challenges and rewards of a career in this field.

Physical Therapy Schools

The list of schools internationally that offer degrees in physical therapy is too large to list here. Please see our Physical Therapy Schools section for our current list of such schools.

Licensing

Once you have your degree you will need to become a licensed physical therapist / physiotherapist. You will need to register with your regional governing body, whether that be a state / provincial organization, or otherwise. You must be registered and have your permit to practice as a licensed physical therapist and to use use the title physical therapist / physiotherapist or PT. For more information see our list of physical therapy associations around the world.

Skills and Qualities of a Great Physical Therapist

• Strong communication: Explaining complex concepts in easy-to-understand terms
• Empathy: Understanding and motivating patients through their recovery
• Problem-solving: Creating effective, individualized treatment plans
• Physical stamina: Demonstrating exercises and spending hours on your feet
• Attention to detail: Monitoring progress and adjusting plans as needed

Where Do Physical Therapists Work?

Physical therapists can be found in a variety of healthcare settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Outpatient physical therapy clinics
• Rehabilitation centers
• Nursing homes
• Schools
• Home health care
• Sports medicine facilities

Physical Therapist Salary and Job Outlook

The demand for physical therapists is strong and growing, driven by an aging population and increased awareness of the benefits of rehabilitation. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for physical therapists in the United States was $97,720 in 2024. Entry-level PTs may start around $75,000, while experienced professionals can earn over $120,000 per year, depending on location, setting, and specialization. Employment of physical therapists is projected to grow much faster than average for all occupations, offering excellent job security and advancement opportunities.

Is Physical Therapy Right for You?

If you’re passionate about helping others, interested in science and movement, and ready for a rewarding, hands-on healthcare career, physical therapy could be a perfect fit. It’s a field that offers personal fulfillment, job stability, and the chance to make a positive impact every day. If you’re asking “should I become a physical therapist?”—consider shadowing a PT or volunteering to gain firsthand experience.

Next Steps to Becoming a Physical Therapist

Ready to take the first step? Research DPT programs, talk to current physical therapists, and consider shadowing or volunteering in a clinical setting to get a feel for the profession. Your journey to a meaningful career in physical therapy starts now!

Videos: A Career in Physical Therapy