Best Physical Therapy Programs in the US What to Look for in a PT Program The Benefits of Earning a PT Degree How to Apply to a PT Program The Future of Physical Therapy Additional Resources Here are some additional tips for choosing the best PT program for you: Table 1: Top PT Programs in the US Table 2: Average PT Salaries by State Table 3: Pros and Cons of Different PT Programs Table 4: Tips for Choosing the Best PT Program for You

Physical therapists (PTs) are in high demand, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projecting a 25% increase in employment from 2019 to 2029. This growth is being driven by an aging population, increased awareness of the benefits of physical therapy, and the expansion of PT services into new areas such as chronic pain management and wellness promotion.

If you’re interested in becoming a physical therapist, there are many excellent PT programs in the US to choose from. Here are some of the top programs, according to U.S. News & World Report:

In addition to these top-ranked programs, there are many other excellent PT programs across the US. When choosing a program, it’s important to consider factors such as tuition, location, faculty, and research opportunities. You should also visit the programs you’re interested in to get a feel for the environment and meet with faculty and students.

When choosing a PT program, there are a few key things you should look for:

• Accreditation: The program should be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). This ensures that the program meets the highest standards of quality.
• Faculty: The faculty should be experienced and qualified physical therapists who are committed to teaching. Look for faculty who have a strong research record and who are actively involved in the field.
• Curriculum: The curriculum should provide a strong foundation in the basic sciences, as well as in clinical skills. Look for a program that offers a variety of clinical experiences in different settings.
• Research opportunities: If you’re interested in research, look for a program that offers opportunities to participate in research projects. This can be a great way to gain experience and learn about the latest research in the field.
• Location: The location of the program is important if you’re planning on living in a particular area after graduation. Look for a program that is located in a community where you want to live and work.

There are many benefits to earning a PT degree, including:

• Job security: PTs are in high demand, and the job outlook is expected to remain strong for the foreseeable future.
• Excellent salary: PTs earn a good salary, with the median annual wage being $91,500 in May 2020, according to the BLS.
• Flexible work hours: PTs typically work flexible hours, and they can often choose their own schedules.
• Job satisfaction: PTs report high levels of job satisfaction, and they often find their work to be rewarding and fulfilling.

The application process for PT programs can be competitive, so it’s important to start early and put your best foot forward. Here are a few tips:

• Get good grades: Your GPA is an important factor in the admissions process, so make sure to do well in your classes.
• Take the GRE: The GRE is a standardized test that is required by most PT programs. Prepare for the GRE by taking a prep course or using a study guide.
• Get involved in extracurricular activities: Extracurricular activities can help you stand out from other applicants. Look for activities that demonstrate your leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.
• Write a strong personal statement: Your personal statement is your chance to tell the admissions committee about your motivations for becoming a physical therapist and what makes you a good candidate for their program.
• Get letters of recommendation: Letters of recommendation from professors, employers, and other individuals who know you well can help to strengthen your application.

The future of physical therapy is bright. As the population ages and the demand for healthcare services increases, PTs will play an increasingly important role in providing care to patients. PTs will also continue to expand their scope of practice into new areas such as chronic pain management, wellness promotion, and disease prevention.

If you’re interested in a career in physical therapy, there are many opportunities available to you. With the right education and training, you can become a successful physical therapist and make a difference in the lives of others.

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

• Consider your career goals. What kind of physical therapist do you want to be? Do you want to work in a hospital, a clinic, a school, or a private practice? Some programs specialize in certain areas of physical therapy, so it’s important to choose a program that aligns with your career goals.
• Research the program’s curriculum. Make sure that the program you’re considering offers the courses that you need to succeed in your career. You should also look for a program that offers clinical experiences in different settings.
• Visit the program’s campus. This is a great way to get a feel for the environment and meet with faculty and students. You can also tour the facilities and learn more about the program’s culture.
• Talk to current students and alumni. Ask current students and alumni about their experiences in the program. They can provide you with valuable insights about the program’s strengths and weaknesses.

• Consider your career goals.
• Research the program’s curriculum.
• Visit the program’s campus.
• Talk to current students and alumni.
• Apply to multiple programs.
• Attend interview days.
• Make your decision.