Physical Therapy Degrees

Overview

If you are looking for a job in the health and wellness industry, you can consider joining a program in physical therapy. A degree in physical therapy can be your key to a rewarding career in the health industry.

Online distance learning programs are generally available at the master's level and these are only open to those students who have already pursued an undergraduate degree in physical therapy. Doctoral degrees in physical therapy can also be obtained and these are usually pursued by those who wish to teach at a college or university. It is better to make sure that you fulfill the right requirements before pursuing a higher degree in physical therapy. If you are not sure that you want to go to a school for six years, there are associate degrees available to enable you to become a physical therapist assistant.

Benefits

Earning a degree in physical therapy is a great way to get started on a career path that is not only financially rewarding but also impactful on the lives of others. A physical therapist is responsible for helping out patients with injuries that have caused a minor or permanent disability. For example, a physical therapist can find work in a major hospital assisting a car crash victim to walk like he earlier did. On a football court, a physical therapist can also help nurse football stars and help them recover from their injuries. Most physical therapists earn an average income of $50,000, with well-experienced therapists earning up to six figures a year.

Costs

The tuition fee to attend these colleges and universities usually hover around $40,000 per year, inclusive of living costs and other expenses. Distance learning programs are generally cheaper, since there are no living costs involved, but it may still prove to be a pretty expensive.

Schools

There are plenty of schools that offer opportunities to get your degree in physical therapy. However, in order to become a licensed physical therapist, you must be ready to pursue a master's degree or get your bachelor's degree in physical therapy at a fully accredited institution. Some of the top-notch colleges and universities for physical therapy include Northeastern University, University of Connecticut, and the University of California.

Testing & Preparation

Your method of preparation varies with the kind of course that you choose to study. Most universities have entrance tests before admitting students into physical therapy programs.

Financial Aid

Be sure to check with the school's financial aid office for scholarship and grant information, or apply for a student loan. Universities like Northeastern offer a number of student financial services. Also, the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and other healthcare professional networks offer outside scholarships. So make sure that you exhaust all options.