How much does a PTA make compared to a PT?

Question

Zippia Team · Accepted Answer

A PTA makes around $20,000 to $30,000 a year less than a PT. This makes sense, considering becoming a physical therapist (PT) requires more formal education and training compared to a physical therapist assistant (PTA). The salary difference is also reflected in the scope of their job responsibilities.

The average PTA working in North Carolina averages $58,790 a year ($28.26 an hour). Compare this to a PT working in North Carolina who averages $86,520 a year ($41.59 an hour)

For physical therapist assistants, the minimum required is two years of school to attain your associate's degree.

During those two years, you'll learn about the different types of therapies that exist, including deep tissue massage, mobility development, pain management, modality use, and more. There is also some amount of clinical experience required in most programs.

Physical therapists face a much lengthier process to attain their degrees. You'll need to first earn your bachelor's degree, which will take four years in most cases, and once that's complete, you'll move on to an approximately three-year doctoral degree in physical therapy.

When studying to become a PT, you'll learn a lot more about theory, diagnosis, and optimal treatment options, in addition to the procedural mechanics that PTAs learn.