Are you considering a career as a physical therapist? This guide outlines everything you need to know about physical therapist career requirements 2025. Physical therapists (PTs) play a critical role in healthcare, helping patients recover from injuries, manage pain, and enhance their quality of life. With the aging population and the growing focus on movement and wellness, physical therapy is an increasingly in-demand profession.
From education and training to licensure and career paths, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of what it takes to become a licensed physical therapist.
Physical therapy revolves around helping patients gain, restore, or maintain physical function. Whether someone is recovering from surgery, managing chronic conditions, or improving mobility due to aging, physical therapists deliver care to optimize movement and improve their quality of life.
Physical therapists work with patients of all ages, using a tailored treatment plan that may include exercises, manual therapy, and patient education. They help patients recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and prevent movement dysfunctions.
PTs work in various settings, such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, private practices, and even patients’ homes.
The APTA plays a vital role in setting industry standards and providing resources for students, recent graduates, and practicing therapists. To practice in the U.S., prospective physical therapists must meet the education and licensure criteria established by their state boards and supported by the APTA guidelines.
The path to becoming a physical therapist involves extensive education and training. Here’s what you need to know about your educational requirements.
Your first step is completing an undergraduate degree. While aspiring PTs can major in any subject, certain prerequisites are required. These typically include anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, and physics. Indiana Wesleyan University offers a bachelors in pre-occupational/physical therapy degree, that will prepare them for the DPT.
After completing a bachelor’s degree, enrolling in an accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is your next step. These programs typically take three years to complete and provide a mix of academic coursework and clinical rotations.
The curriculum includes subjects like:
Physical therapy students spend significant time in clinical settings, gaining hands-on experience under the supervision of licensed physical therapists. These internships allow students to treat patients and refine their skills in real-world settings, preparing them for clinical practice.
Some physical therapists pursue further training in defined areas like orthopedics, neurology, or sports physical therapy. Certifications from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) in fields such as clinical electrophysiology or cardiovascular and pulmonary physical therapy can elevate your career prospects.
Passing the NPTE is a fundamental requirement for obtaining your physical therapist license. This exam evaluates your knowledge and readiness to treat patients safely and effectively. Exact requirements vary, so ensure you research the licensure process in the state where you intend to practice. Here is more information about the state board exams in Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio.
To maintain your license, you’ll need to meet continuing education requirements. This ensures physical therapists stay updated on advancements and best practices in the physical therapy field.
Physical therapy offers diverse career paths, allowing professionals to find their niche.
The most common settings where physical therapists work include:
Many PTs focus on particular patient populations or conditions, such as:
Experienced physical therapists may transition into roles in research, education, or healthcare administration. Leaders in the field often earn advanced degrees or certifications to move into these positions.
Beyond becoming a licensed physical therapist, there are various ways to advance your career.
Board certification by the ABPTS demonstrates expertise in specialty areas such as orthopedics or neurology. To achieve certification, physical therapists must meet requirements like completing clinical residencies and passing the certification exam.
With experience, physical therapists can become department heads, establish private practices, or transition into education, teaching prospective students.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for physical therapists in 2024 was $101,020 and is estimated to grow 14% from 2023 to 2033. Salaries vary based on location, specialization, and experience, but the growing demand for healthcare services ensures solid career prospects.
At the heart of physical therapy lies patient care. PTs need to communicate clearly, compassionately, and effectively with patients, their families, and other healthcare providers.
Trust is vital in therapy. A PT’s ability to listen, set goals collaboratively, and educate patients on self-care plays a significant role in successful treatment outcomes.
Every patient is unique, and the ability to develop personalized treatment plans is key to restoring function, managing pain, and improving mobility.
Becoming a licensed physical therapist requires dedication, education, and a passion for serving others. By 2033, the demand for skilled physical therapists is projected to grow as the population ages and the focus on disease prevention and management continues to rise.
If you’re inspired to join this impactful profession, now is the time to act. Consider enrolling in a bachelor's program to begin your career. Indiana Wesleyan University offers a comprehensive pre-occupational/physical therapy program, blending expert teaching with a faith-integrated perspective. Request more information and apply today!
