What it is
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) is the professional degree required to become a licensed physical therapist — helping patients recover movement and manage pain after injury, surgery, or illness.
The degrees & designations
How long it takes
About three years of PT school, including extensive clinical rotations; optional residencies exist for specialization.
What you study
Movement science, therapeutic technique, and clinical rotations; the NPTE licenses graduates.
Getting in
Requires a bachelor's degree and prerequisites, plus the field's admission test; admission is typically very competitive.
Cost & funding
Professional degrees are among the most expensive, and debt can be significant; loans, scholarships, and service-based repayment are common.
Where it leads
Leads to licensed physical-therapist practice in clinics, hospitals, sports, and rehab.
How it compares
Now the entry-level PT degree (replacing older master's-level PT).
Is it right for you?
Fits those pursuing physical therapy.
Explore further
This is a reference guide. Keep exploring:
Key facts
- WhatThe physical-therapist degree
- Length~3 years + rotations
- EntryBachelor's + prerequisites
- LicenseNPTE
- NoteNow the entry-level PT degree
Where to learn more
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