How To Become a Physical Therapist? Becoming a physical therapist in the U.S. involves a step-by-step process.
First, you need a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a science-related field like biology or kinesiology, and take courses like anatomy and physiology as prerequisites.
After that, do hands-on experience through observation.
Then, enroll in a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, which is about three years. After completing the program, pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and get a state license to work.
Optional is to get additional experience through a residency and certification in a specialty.
This process can take about 7-8 years but results in a fulfilling career with good job opportunities and pay.
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Step one of “How To Become a Physical Therapist” is choosing the proper college major. Some good college major choices are Kinesiology, Biology, and Exercise Science because they teach crucial things about how the human body moves and what the human body structure is.
Students also need to take courses in Anatomy, Physiology, and Psychology. They are required to take mentoring and on-the-job training.
Step 2: Complete Observation Hours
Attaining practical experience is the second step of “How To Become a Physical Therapist”, which proves important for future physical therapists.
It helps them apply what they have learned in real life, making the skills and confidence better.
For this, students will have to seek opportunities to observe in such premises as hospitals or clinics.
Most importantly, it is necessary to work with qualified physical therapists who can help and collaborate on their work to be accepted in these DPT programs.
Step 3: Take Graduate Exams
This is the best-known test, especially from that broad range of graduate schools, where Doctor of Physical Therapy programs obtain scores. Generally, it is mentioned whenever one asks how to become a physical therapist.
It tests verbal, mathematical, as well as essay-based skills to ensure whether an individual is fit for the rigor of college studies.
A good score in the GRE will work to one’s advantage, especially in the competitive schools, as it would bring in a fair scale by which students from different backgrounds can be compared. To ace the GRE, planning should start well in advance.
Familiarize oneself with test style and topics; make use of the official books and try practice tests- consider joining a prep course.
Having a regular study plan also improves and gives more confidence about the test sections.
Step 4: Apply to a Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
The next step in “How To Become a Physical Therapist” is Choosing a program with CAPTE accreditation is crucial for physical therapy students since it ensures their education meets professional standards.
Accreditation is a process in which the program has been reviewed and approved by employers and licensing boards for receiving state licensure.
The DPT application typically uses the PTCAS to facilitate the application process so students may apply to several programs using just one application.
Official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of observation hours are just some of the common requirements.
Step 5: Complete Your Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree
When inquiring about “How To Become a Physical Therapist,” just know that Doctor of Physical Therapy programs last about three to four years after completing a bachelor’s degree.
They combine classroom learning with a lot of hands-on training to help the students learn more theory and practicable skills.
DPT students can study topics like musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary, geriatrics, and pediatrics to prepare to see many different kinds of patients.
They also undertake clinical training and clinical internships so that they can conduct most of what they have learned in a proper healthcare setting with experienced professionals.
Step 6: Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)
One of the significant steps in “How To Become a Physical Therapist” is the National Physical Therapy Examination.
It is one of the mandatory requirements for those who wish to become licensed physical therapists or physical therapist assistants in the United States
It is administered by the FSBPT and checks that applicants have enough knowledge required for the safe and effective care of patients.
Important to get ready for the NPTE are using different study materials, such as books, online courses, and practice tests, like the PEAT, and getting used to the exam format and the types of questions that may arise.
Assistance from a prep course could also be of value in forming a more systematic study plan and learning testing tips.
Having passed the NPTE, the applicant should be aware that different states can have varied supplementary requirements.
These may range from jurisprudence exams to background checks before one can start practicing professionally.
Complete a Residency Program
The final additional step of “How To Become a Physical Therapist” is Getting a residency after becoming a physical therapist which can significantly enhance a therapist’s skills, knowledge, and job opportunities.
Residencies are high-intensity training programs that enable therapists to learn new abilities, gain knowledge in specific areas, and seek guidance from experts.
There are numerous speciality residencies, like in orthopedics or pediatrics, that will suit various career objectives.
Being a resident does make therapists more attractive to employers, many of whom prefer them over those who have not undergone residency training.
What a wonderful career choice: a physical therapist can really help patients change their lives.
You should still have any doubts about the “How To Become a Physical Therapist” since, at every step of education and licensing, you are getting closer to a rewarding healing and rehab-focused career.