Physical Therapist

What They Do:

Physical Therapists are movement experts who improve quality of life through prescribed exercise, hands-on care, and patient education. They diagnose and treat individuals of all ages, from newborns to people at the end of life.They examine each person and then develop a treatment plan to improve their ability to move, reduce or manage pain, restore function, and prevent disability. They also help people achieve fitness goals, regain or maintain their independence, and lead active lives.

Also Known As:

Acute Care PT (Acute Care Physical Therapist), Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Home Care Physical Therapist (Home Care PT), Inpatient Physical Therapist (Inpatient PT), Outpatient Physical Therapist (Outpatient PT), Pediatric Physical Therapist (Pediatric PT), Registered Physical Therapist (RPT), Therapist

Minimum Education Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in health science related major: 4 years
• Doctorate of Physical Therapy: 3 years (including classroom and clinical work)

Career Info Sources Include:

• Career One Stop
• Bureau of Labor Statistics