How hard is it to become a physical therapist?

DPT degree programs begin with didactic courses in pathophysiology, imaging, biomechanics, anatomy, and more. During the second year of the program, students complete their white coat ceremony and enter the clinic for hands-on rotations supervised by a clinical instructor.

After you obtain your doctoral degree, you must become licensed in the state where you will practice. To do this, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), which is given by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.

The computer-administered exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions split into five sections. Candidates can take it up to three times in one year; however, the average pass rate for first-time test takers is 86%.

Most states require physical therapists not only to pass the NPTE but also to fulfill additional criteria, such as compliance training, background checks, etc. To maintain licensure, physical therapists must also meet continuing education requirements every two years in most states.

Continuing education courses keep physical therapists current with the health professions' standards and trends.