When seeking information as to how to become a physical therapist? there are several steps one must go through, prior to finding a job in the respected industry. The first step is to complete an undergraduate schooling program. Prior to going to graduate school, students will have to get their undergraduate bachelor’s degree. There is no degree major required, but math and science courses (physics, biology, and chemistry) are required. Additionally, students can consider volunteering while in undergraduate programs, as it may be a prerequisite to certain graduate schools.
The next step is earning a graduate degree. This will be a master’s or doctoral degree from an accredited program in physical therapy from an APTA approved school. This master’s program will take up to two and a half years, and doctoral degrees generally take three years. Once completed, students will be required to attend a residency program. This is where students must work at least 1500 hours of clinical physical therapy practice, which has to be completed within 9 to 36 months. Under a residency, students will meet and examine patients under supervised control os a licensed therapist.
Once completed with the residency, applicants must obtain a license to practice. Each state has their own guidelines, and all students (in every state) must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination, to demonstrate they hold the knowledge and expertise required to treat patients.
For those considering the career choice, and wondering how to become a physical therapist? it is a long process. Therefore, making sure you are up to the task, are willing to put in the hard work, go to school for such a long period of time, and willing to prepare for the exam upon completing a residency program, then choosing to become a physical therapist might be the right career path for you to consider going down.