Physical Therapist (PT) Career Guide
Your complete guide to becoming a PT — from DPT programs and licensure to salary data and open Physical Therapist positions at OneWell.
What Is a Physical Therapist?
A Physical Therapist (PT) diagnoses and treats movement dysfunction caused by injury, illness, disability, or aging. PTs design and implement individualized rehabilitation programs to restore strength, mobility, and function. They work with patients recovering from surgery, sports injuries, stroke, and chronic conditions in outpatient clinics, hospitals, and home health settings.
Job Outlook
PT employment is projected to grow 15% through 2032 — much faster than average. An aging population, increased orthopedic and neurological conditions, and growing recognition of PT as a first-line alternative to surgery are all driving demand.
How to Become a Physical Therapist
- 1Earn a bachelor's degree with required prerequisitesMost DPT programs require prerequisites in biology, anatomy, physiology, chemistry, statistics, and psychology, plus observation hours in a PT setting.
- 2Complete an accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programAll U.S. PT programs are now doctoral-level. Accredited DPT programs take 3 years and include extensive clinical rotations.
- 3Complete clinical internshipsDPT programs require 30+ weeks of full-time clinical internship experience across multiple specialty settings.
- 4Pass the NPTE examinationThe National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) is required for licensure in all states. A passing score must be achieved to practice.
- 5Obtain state licensureEvery state requires PT licensure before you can practice. Licensure requirements include the NPTE, a jurisprudence exam, and background checks.
Required Skills
- ✓Musculoskeletal and neurological assessment
- ✓Manual therapy techniques
- ✓Therapeutic exercise program design
- ✓Gait training and balance rehabilitation
- ✓Pain management strategies
- ✓Post-surgical rehabilitation
- ✓Patient education and home exercise programs
- ✓Documentation and insurance authorization
Certifications
- →Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree
- →State PT licensure (required)
- →NPTE passage (required)
- →Board Certified Clinical Specialist (OCS, NCS, SCS, GCS)
- →CPR / First Aid
Why Work as a PT at OneWell Healthcare?
Physical Therapist Jobs by State
Click a state to see salary data, local requirements, and open positions near you.
Open Physical Therapist Positions at OneWell
15 active openings — updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about working as a PT.
What does a Physical Therapist do?
PTs evaluate movement dysfunction and design individualized treatment programs to restore function. They use exercise, manual therapy, and modalities to help patients recover from injury, surgery, stroke, and chronic conditions.
How long does it take to become a PT?
Becoming a PT takes approximately 7 years: 4 years for a bachelor's degree and 3 years for a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, plus the NPTE examination and state licensure.
How much does a Physical Therapist earn?
The national average PT salary is approximately $97,000 per year. Home health PTs often earn above average due to per-visit productivity compensation. Experienced PTs in specialty areas can earn $110,000+.
What is the difference between a PT and PTA?
A PT (Physical Therapist) holds a doctoral degree, performs evaluations, and develops treatment plans. A PTA (Physical Therapist Assistant) holds an associate's degree and carries out treatment under PT supervision.
Ready to Start Your PT Career?
Join OneWell Healthcare — 15 open positions available across 1 states. Apply today and make a difference.
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