How to Become a Physical Therapist: Education and Skills

Key Takeaways

• The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 14 percent increase in employment for physical therapists by 2033.
• Becoming a physical therapist requires completing a bachelor’s degree, a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, passing the NPTE, and obtaining state licensure.
• The profession demands strong communication, empathy, physical stamina, and a solid understanding of human anatomy.

If you’re wondering how to become a PT, start by understanding what the job entails. Physical therapists assist individuals in recovering from injuries, managing chronic pain, and enhancing mobility through personalized treatment plans.

They don’t just treat symptoms. They teach people how to move better, build strength, and prevent future issues. It’s a career built on problem-solving skills, patience, and human connection. 

As the population ages and becomes more active, the demand for PTs continues to rise. For those who enjoy science, care about others, and are interested in a hands-on role in healthcare, this is a path worth exploring.

Steps to Becoming a Physical Therapist

Becoming a physical therapist takes time, planning, and commitment. Students need to complete the right undergraduate coursework, get clinical experience, apply to a graduate program, and pass licensing exams. Each step plays a key role in developing the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in physical therapy.

Step 1: Earn a bachelor’s degree

Your journey to becoming a physical therapist starts with a solid undergraduate education. While PT schools don’t usually require a specific major, choosing a field such as biology, kinesiology, or exercise science will align closely with the prerequisites. These majors often include essential courses like anatomy, physiology, chemistry, biology, and physics. 

Schools also look for students who demonstrate strong communication skills and an understanding of the human body. Along with your coursework, it’s smart to gain some exposure to the field through volunteer work or internships at clinics or rehab centers. Not only does this help your application, but it also gives you a clearer sense of what the career looks like in real life. 

Finally, remember to maintain a strong GPA, as competitive programs typically expect at least a 3.0, although many accepted students have higher grades.

Step 2: Complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program

After earning your bachelor’s degree, the next step is applying to a DPT program (Doctor of Physical Therapy), which is required to practice as a licensed physical therapist in the U.S. These programs usually last three years and combine classroom learning with real-world clinical experiences. 

You’ll study subjects like biomechanics, neuroscience, pharmacology, and diagnostic imaging. Expect to complete lab work and hands-on clinical rotations under the supervision of experienced PTs. And this is where theory meets practice. 

When researching programs, make sure they are accredited by CAPTE. Accreditation ensures the program meets national education standards and qualifies you to take the licensing exam. Applications are typically submitted through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS), and admissions can be competitive. 

Aim for strong recommendation letters, a compelling personal statement, and documented observation hours. A DPT program is intense, but it’s where you’ll gain the skills and knowledge to step into your future role confidently.

Step 3: Pass the NPTE (Licensing exam)

Once you’ve completed your DPT program, the next big hurdle is the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). This is the licensing exam that assesses your ability to practice safely and effectively, covering everything from patient evaluation and diagnosis to intervention planning and safety protocols. 

The exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions and is typically administered on a computer at a designated testing center. Preparation is key, so give yourself enough time to study using reputable prep books, online courses, and practice tests. Most students begin preparing months in advance. 

The Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) administers the exam and provides resources and updates. Passing the NPTE is required in every state. Still, some states may also have additional exams or legal requirements, like jurisprudence tests. Check your state board early so you’re not caught off guard by any extra steps.

Step 4: Get licensed in your state

After passing the NPTE, you still need to get officially licensed to practice in your state. Each state has its own licensing board and specific requirements, which may include a background check, additional fees, proof of clinical hours, or a jurisprudence exam on state laws and ethics. 

Many states allow you to begin the application process before your exam results come in, so it’s smart to start early. Keep copies of your transcripts, test scores, and identification handy since you’ll likely need to upload or mail them. 

Once you’re licensed, you’ll need to maintain it by meeting continuing education requirements, which vary by state. This ensures you stay up to date on best practices, new techniques, and legal standards. Getting licensed is the final official step between you and the job title of a physical therapist.

Step 5: Consider a residency or specialization

After licensure, some new PTs choose to take their training further through a clinical residency or board certification in a specialty area. While not mandatory, this can deepen your knowledge, expand your job opportunities, and increase your confidence in a specific field. 

Typical specialties include orthopedics, sports, neurology, pediatrics, geriatrics, cardiovascular and pulmonary rehab, and more. A residency typically lasts approximately one year and involves a combination of hands-on training, mentorship, and coursework.

Board certification is another optional step, but one that can set you apart from the other professionals in the field. For example, becoming an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) through a residency may help you land roles in sports rehab or surgical recovery. 

To become certified through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS), you’re required to complete certain clinical hours and pass an additional exam. While optional, a residency and board certification can give your career a powerful edge and open doors to leadership or teaching roles.

Step 6: Start your career as a PT

With your degree, license, and training complete, you’re finally ready to step into the field. Physical therapists are in high demand, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 14 percent job growth between 2023 and 2033. That’s much faster than average, and it means thousands of new job openings each year. 

PTs work in a wide range of settings: outpatient clinics, hospitals, rehab centers, nursing homes, sports medicine facilities, schools, and people’s homes. Some even start their own practices. 

When applying for jobs, make sure your resume highlights clinical experience, specialties, and any extra certifications. Network with classmates, former supervisors, or professionals you met during clinical rotations. 

Continuing education is also key because you’ll need it for license renewal and professional growth. So, stay curious, keep learning, and remember that every patient presents a new challenge and a new opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Skills Required to Become a Physical Therapist

Being a successful physical therapist takes more than just education and credentials. The job involves working closely with people of all ages and backgrounds, often during some of their most vulnerable moments. A good PT knows how to build trust, motivate patients, and adjust their approach based on individual needs. 

Here are some of the key skills every aspiring physical therapist should work on:

Communication skills

Clear communication is essential when explaining treatment plans, exercises, or progress. You’ll also need to listen closely to understand patients’ concerns and adjust your approach accordingly.

Empathy and patience

Recovery can be slow and frustrating. Patients need someone who genuinely cares and is willing to walk alongside them through setbacks and small wins alike.

Knowledge of human anatomy and movement

A strong understanding of how the body works enables physical therapists (PTs) to diagnose issues and develop effective treatment plans accurately.

Physical stamina

The job can be physically demanding. Therapists are often on their feet, demonstrating exercises or supporting patients through movements.

Team collaboration

PTs regularly coordinate with doctors, nurses, and occupational therapists. Being able to work as part of a healthcare team is essential for delivering well-rounded care.

Is Physical Therapy the Right Career for You?

Becoming a therapist is a great path for people who love helping others feel better, move better, and live better. But before jumping in, it’s worth asking yourself if this career truly fits your interests, strengths, and lifestyle.

First, do you enjoy learning about health, the human body, and how to care for others? PTs work closely with patients who are recovering from injuries or managing chronic conditions. If improving someone’s quality of life sounds fulfilling to you, that’s a great sign.

You’ll also need strong communication and people skills. Physical therapy is very personal work. You’ll be encouraging patients through tough days, celebrating their progress, and building genuine connections. Being patient, supportive, and a good listener goes a long way.

And don’t forget that this is a physically active job. You’ll be on your feet, demonstrating exercises, helping patients move, and staying hands-on throughout the day. If you prefer a desk job instead, then this career might not be the right fit.

If all of this excites you more than it intimidates you, then you might just have the heart and mindset needed for a rewarding career in physical therapy.

Conclusion

Physical therapy is more than a career. It’s a way to directly impact people’s lives by helping them regain movement, manage pain, and rebuild confidence. As a PT, you’ll work with patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions, and play a key role in their journey back to independence. It’s a profession that blends science, empathy, and hands-on care. If this sounds like your kind of work, it’s worth exploring how to become a PT through the proper education and training. Start researching DPT programs, understand the steps ahead, and take that first step toward a career that truly matters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

How long does it take to become a PT?

It typically takes about 7 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree and 3 years for a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.

What’s the difference between a PT and a PTA?

PTs evaluate, diagnose, and create treatment plans, while PTAs (Physical Therapist Assistants) assist with exercises and therapies under a PT’s supervision.

How much does a PT earn monthly?

On average, physical therapists earn around $100,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and setting.