There are a lot of great reasons to become a physical therapist (PT). You get to be active at work and help people make improvements to their health. Also, you get to continue to learn while on the job. In addition to helping people and learning, the job outlook for physical therapists is great. The median salary is around $89,000 per year. The type of work plus the compensation makes becoming a physical therapist appealing to many people.
If you’ve decided that you’re comfortable with what a physical therapist actually does, and it sounds like a good fit for you, you should consider the next steps for your education.
How long is PT school?
The answer to this question depends on your background. Concordia University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program offers a few different options for you.
You have a bachelor’s degree:
If you have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, and you meet the admissions criteria, the program takes three years.
You’re a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA):
Concordia offers a program geared exactly for PTAs. The Physical Therapy Assistant Bridge Program provides a pathway toward the Doctor of Physical Therapy. You begin with earning your Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitative Science in 1.5 years, and then you’d follow the 3-year Doctor of Physical Therapy track. If you follow this path, the program takes 4.5 years.
You don’t have a bachelor’s degree:
Concordia’s Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitative Science would give you the foundation that you need to be successful in the DPT program. Plus, you can apply for the accelerated DPT program while you’re still finishing your bachelor’s. If you opt for the accelerated DPT program, this means you can become a physical therapist in 6 years, while it usually takes 7 years.
What PT school option is right for you?
No matter how you look at it, becoming a Doctor of Physical Therapy will require a significant time investment. That’s why it’s important to think about what your options are and find out what matches your personal and career goals.
Do you want to know more?
If you’re thinking about becoming a Doctor of Physical Therapy, feel free to request more information on our program page. Whatever your next step is, having the right information will help you take it with confidence.
This blog was originally published on 03/09/2021. It has been updated to reflect current information.