Requirements to Become...
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What are the Requirements to Become a Physical Therapist?

As a physical therapist, you help improve mobility, relieve pain, restore function, or limit permanent disabilities in patients who suffer from any number of diseases or injuries. Working closely with healthcare providers, patients, and their families, you develop exercise and stretching regimens designed to help patients get back on their feet and resume as many of their daily activities as possible. Typical charges include accident victims and those suffering from:
  • Fractures
  • Back pain
  • Arthritis
  • Head injuries
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Parkinson's disease
It is a job that requires tremendous patience, attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of the human anatomy. Not only do you need technical knowledge, but you should also develop strong interpersonal skills as well. Physical therapy can be an arduous and frustrating experience for patients, so compassion and understand are crucial to the process.

Educational Requirements to Become a Physical Therapist

Although the exact requirements to become a physical therapist vary from state to state, in most cases, you need a master's degree in physical therapy, sports medicine, or a related field. In some very rare cases, a bachelor's degree might suffice, but for long-term employment prospects, having a master's degree or higher is preferred.

Throughout your training, you explore areas such as chemistry, biology, physics, biomechanics, human growth and development, examination techniques, neuroanatomy, therapeutic procedures, and manifestations of disease. Most of this academic coursework is then coupled with supervised clinical experience as well.

Regulatory Requirements to Become a Physical Therapist

After completing your academic and practical training, you must then pass your state's licensing exam. Such certification is mandatory before you can begin practicing physical therapy professionally. And because each state follows its own guidelines regarding this occupational field, you may have to retake the exam every time that you change locations.




The following colleges offer programs that can help you become qualified for a Physical Therapist career:
  Brown Mackie College

At Brown Mackie College family of schools, you don't need to wait for a traditional "Fall Start." Because our students aren't always living "traditional" lives we offer new starts each month with day or evening classes that fit your schedule. Each class lasts one month. There's no need to divide your time and energy between coursework and exams for multiple courses. We keep the focus on one course, one subject at a time to help you succeed.

  Brookline College

In as little as 8 months, Brookline College can help you start a new career. Choose from a variety of career-focused programs in the medical, legal, business, and nursing fields. Take advantage of flexible scheduling, experienced faculty, no-cost child care for students, and much more.

  Daymar Institute

Give your career a boost with Daymar Institute. We offer 20 different academic programs so you can earn your certificate, associate degree, or bachelor's degree in a variety of career fields, including medical, criminal justice, computer technology, business, and more. We have three convenient locations in Clarksville, Murfreesboro, and Nashville, Tennessee.

  Hesser College

For over 100 years, Hesser College has been preparing students just like you for success. It's important to remember that in today's competitive job market, employers are only interested in hiring the most qualified candidates. With a degree from Hesser College, that's exactly what you'll be. Attend one of Hesser's five conveniently located New Hampshire campuses. Choose from over 25 career-track degree programs and take advantage of flexible day, evening and Saturday class schedules.

  Medical Careers Institute

A degree from Medical Careers Institute prepares you for success in healthcare. Choose between day and evening classes taught in MCI's state-of-the-art teaching labs.

  Western Technical College

Get your career started with an education from Western Technical College. We offer certificates and associate degrees in a variety of programs, including massage, medical, technology, automotive, and more. Our programs offer students a combination of traditional classroom work and industry-specific externships that provide valuable hands-on training and real-life experience.



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