How long does it take to be a physical therapist?
Step 1Understand that you will need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in physical therapy, and that it will include numerous science courses, including chemistry, biology and physics. You should begin taking these science courses in high school. Step 2Work on polishing your interpersonal skills. You will often have to advise frustrated patients and family members about long-term physical therapy. Step 3Go to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Web site (apta.org) for up-to-date information about this field. Also look for the APTA list of accredited schools and contact your top choices for their admissions information. Step 4Maintain an excellent grade point average. The physical therapy field is highly competitive. Step 5Consult local hospitals, rehabilitation centers and private therapy practices about their hiring forecasts. Try to get your internship where jobs might be available after you graduate. Step 6Pass the mandatory licensure exam after you have received your degr
