There are several education requirements to become a physical therapist. Physical therapists usually study physical therapy, kinesiology or biology. 58% of physical therapists hold a bachelor's degree and 17% hold a doctoral degree. We found these by analyzing 29,666 physical therapist resumes to investigate the topic of physical therapist education more precisely.

The most common colleges for students to pursue their goal of becoming a physical therapist are Northeastern University and University of the Sciences.

For those who would rather stay in your pajamas during the day, we prepared some online courses that can help in physical therapist education paths.

We prepared a list of a physical therapist certifications that you should consider. The necessary certifications that physical therapists must have to succeed are Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA).

Physical Therapist JOBS

What Education is Needed to Become a Physical Therapist?

What Degree Should I Get to Become a Physical Therapist?

The most common degree for physical therapists is bachelor's degree 58% of physical therapists earn that degree. A close second is doctoral degree with 17% and rounding it off is master's degree with 14%.

  • Bachelors, 58%
  • Doctorate, 17%
  • Masters, 14%
  • Associate, 6%
  • Other Degrees, 5%

What Should I Major in to Become a Physical Therapist?

Most physical therapists, 63% to be exact, major in physical therapy. Some other common majors for a physical therapist include kinesiology and biology majors.

Most Common Colleges For Physical Therapists

Here are the most common colleges for a physical therapist career in the US based on their resumes. Advocates often get their degree in Northeastern University, University of the Sciences, and Ithaca College .

Physical Therapist Common CollegePercentages
Northeastern University8.88%
University of the Sciences8.74%
Ithaca College6.84%
Loma Linda University6.30%
University of Pittsburgh6.10%

10 Best Universities For Physical Therapists

In a lot of cases, a higher education can mean a higher salary or even a better job. That's why we found out the best colleges for physical therapists. We based this list on these metrics: admissions rate, retention rate, mean earnings of students working, ratio of working vs. non-working students 10 years after admission, average cost of attendance and median debt for graduates.

1. Duke University

Durham, NC • Private

In-State Tuition

$55,695

Enrollment

6,596

Website

WWW.DUKE.EDU

Address

103 Allen Bldg, Durham, NC 27708

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $93,200 per year

Net Price: $23,442 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 8.91%
SAT Average - 1516
ACT Average - 34
Most Popular Majors
Business
Health And Wellness
Biology
Nursing
Psychology

2. Georgia Institute of Technology

Atlanta, GA • Private

In-State Tuition

$12,424

Enrollment

15,201

Website

www.gatech.edu

Address

225 North Avenue, N.W., Atlanta, GA 30332

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $66,100 per year

Net Price: $14,927 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 21.53%
SAT Average - 1465
ACT Average - 33
Most Popular Majors
Business
Biology
Psychology
Health And Wellness
Rehabilitation Science

3. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC • Private

In-State Tuition

$8,987

Enrollment

18,946

Website

www.unc.edu

Address

103 South Bldg Campus Box 9100, Chapel Hill, NC 27599

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $49,900 per year

Net Price: $13,918 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 22.71%
SAT Average - 1398
ACT Average - 31
Most Popular Majors
Health And Wellness
Business
Biology
Psychology
Kinesiology

4. Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • Private

In-State Tuition

$54,568

Enrollment

8,451

Website

www.northwestern.edu

Address

633 Clark St, Evanston, IL 60208

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $71,900 per year

Net Price: $24,840 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 8.47%
SAT Average - 1508
ACT Average - 34
Most Popular Majors
Biology
Business
Liberal Arts
Psychology
Education

5. Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY • Private

In-State Tuition

$59,430

Enrollment

8,216

Website

www.columbia.edu

Address

535 West 116th Street, New York, NY 10027

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $77,900 per year

Net Price: $22,637 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 5.91%
SAT Average - 1512
ACT Average - 34
Most Popular Majors
Business
Biology
Nursing
Public Health
Rehabilitation Science

6. Tufts University

Medford, MA • Private

In-State Tuition

$56,382

Enrollment

5,597

Website

https://www.tufts.edu

Address

Ballou Hall, 2nd Floor, Medford, MA 02155

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $56,600 per year

Net Price: $31,485 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 14.62%
SAT Average - 1461
ACT Average - 33
Most Popular Majors
Health And Wellness
Biology
Public Health
Psychology
Education

7. University of Florida

Gainesville, FL • Private

In-State Tuition

$6,381

Enrollment

34,564

Website

www.ufl.edu/

Address

300 SW 13th Street, Gainesville, FL 32611

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $47,700 per year

Net Price: $8,057 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 38.75%
SAT Average - 1362
ACT Average - 30
Most Popular Majors
Health And Wellness
Biology
Business
Education
Psychology

8. Washington University in St Louis

Saint Louis, MO • Private

In-State Tuition

$53,399

Enrollment

7,356

Website

www.wustl.edu

Address

One Brookings Dr, Saint Louis, MO 63130

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $63,400 per year

Net Price: $27,427 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 15.03%
SAT Average - 1506
ACT Average - 34
Most Popular Majors
Biology
Business
Rehabilitation Science
Public Health
Education

9. University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA • Private

In-State Tuition

$56,225

Enrollment

19,548

Website

www.usc.edu/

Address

University Park, Los Angeles, CA 90089-0012

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $61,400 per year

Net Price: $30,453 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 12.96%
SAT Average - 1445
ACT Average - 32
Most Popular Majors
Business
Education
Biology
Public Health
Rehabilitation Science

10. California State University - Long Beach

Long Beach, CA • Private

In-State Tuition

$6,798

Enrollment

31,503

Website

www.csulb.edu

Address

1250 Bellflower Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90840-0115

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $40,000 per year

Net Price: $8,982 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 31.21%
SAT Average - 1146
ACT Average - 23
Most Popular Majors
Business
Psychology
Biology
Liberal Arts
Kinesiology

20 Best Online Courses for Physical Therapists

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1. Managing Your Health: The Role of Physical Therapy and Exercise

coursera

Managing Your Health: The Role of Physical Therapy and Exercise will introduce learners to the concepts and benefits of physical therapy and exercise. Over six weeks learners will explore: Why physical activity and exercise are important, Exercise and Cardiovascular Disease, Exercise and Osteoporosis, Exercise and Cancer, Common Sports Injuries, Exercise and Arthritis...

See More on Coursera

2. Trauma Emergencies and Care

coursera

Welcome to Trauma Emergencies and Care. In this course, you will learn about some of the mechanics and physics of trauma on the human body, and how this can cause injury. You will continue to expand your new vocabulary with medical terminology, and learn how to describe the different injuries you may see. You will also learn about the trauma system itself- and when it is important to transport patients to a trauma center. Then we will dive into specific injuries based on what part of the body...

See More on Coursera

3. Health After Cancer: Cancer Survivorship for Primary Care

coursera

This course presents basic principles of cancer survivorship to primary-care physicians. Developed by a team of experts in caring for cancer survivors, and narrated by a primary-care physician, this course provides practical tips and tools that can be easily integrated into medical practice. You will learn about the complex physical and psychosocial needs and concerns of the growing number of cancer survivors, along with the key role that primary care physicians have in guiding these patients...

See More on Coursera

4. Transgender Medicine for General Medical Providers

coursera

The course is a comprehensive set of didactic lectures surveying fundamentals of transgender medical and surgical treatment. The material is meant to provide the student with core knowledge that is essential for current primary care providers caring for transgender patients. There are 10 modules led by the expert clinical faculty from the pioneering Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, located within the Mount Sinai Health System and the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New...

See More on Coursera

5. Occupational Therapy Introduction - ACCREDITED CERTIFICATE

udemy
4.6
(476)

How to become occupational therapist, basic Psychology, Physiology & Anatomy, working with disabilities, children adults...

See More on Udemy

6. Internationally Accredited Certificate in Art Therapy

udemy
4.3
(451)

Become Professional Art Therapist with this Therapeutic Art Therapy Course / Masterclass for Healing and Life Coaching...

See More on Udemy

7. Introduction to Solution Focused Therapy

udemy
4.3
(323)

Learn Solution Focused Therapy To Empower Clients & Improve Outcomes Ideal For Social Workers, Coaches & Therapists...

See More on Udemy

8. CBT: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy For Therapists & Coaches

udemy
4.5
(1,386)

Comprehensive CBT Therapy Training Cognitive Behavior Therapy Practitioner Level Treat Anxiety, Depression & More...

See More on Udemy

9. Massage Therapy

udemy
4.6
(996)

Massage Therapy Course 101...

See More on Udemy

10. Professional Cupping Therapy Massage Certificate Course

udemy
4.7
(2,032)

Learn Cupping Therapy Massage Today to Treat Your Own Pains, Your Friends, Family Or Massage Clients Effortlessly!...

See More on Udemy

11. Professional Cupping Therapy & Massage

udemy
4.6
(1,730)

Professional and comprehensive course of cupping techniques and applications...

See More on Udemy

12. Bowen Therapy NO MASSAGE Healing Certificate Course (8CEU)

udemy
4.8
(599)

An incredible NO MASSAGE remedial therapy for massage therapists or anyone else that wants to learn how to heal people...

See More on Udemy

13. Introduction to CBT: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

udemy
4.2
(4,453)

Online Counselling & Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Training Course...

See More on Udemy

14. Fully Accredited Professional Colour Therapy Diploma Course

udemy
4.2
(523)

Fully Accredited Diploma Course - Using the power of Color For Positive & Strong Effects In Your Or Your Clients Life!...

See More on Udemy

15. Fully Accredited Crystal Therapy Healing Diploma Course

udemy
4.6
(617)

An In Depth Diploma Course Understanding & Learning About Crystals & Their Powerful Healing Abilities...

See More on Udemy

16. The Complete EMDR Therapy Course - Accredited Certification

udemy
4.3
(412)

International EMDR Training for Self-Healing, Trauma Therapy, Childhood Healing, PTSD, Grief, and Counseling...

See More on Udemy

17. Sound Therapy Full Certification Course

udemy
4.7
(294)

Become a holistic professional who knows both Western and Eastern approaches to Sound Therapy!...

See More on Udemy

18. Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage Certificate Course (6CEU)

udemy
4.7
(3,255)

Manual lymphatic drainage massage will change your massage practice. Learn how to do this powerful massage technique...

See More on Udemy

19. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Certificate

udemy
4.7
(537)

Become a certified CBT practitioner and learn to use cognitive behavior therapy to improve people's mental health...

See More on Udemy

20. Human Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Cases

edX (Global)

Human Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Cases invites students to join medical and basic science faculty at Harvard Medical School (HMS) to learn about musculoskeletal injuries commonly seen in clinical practice. For each case, students visit the HMS Clinical Skills Center to observe the initial patient encounter and physical examination by an orthopedic surgeon. Following the patient encounter, students complete the interactive gross anatomy, histology and radiology learning sessions essential for...

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Best Physical Therapist Certifications in 2023

1. Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)

Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists (CSCS) are professionals who apply scientific knowledge to train athletes for the primary goal of improving athletic performance. Learn more about becoming a strength and conditioning coach with the NSCA certification! Visit NSCA.com for more information on strength and conditioning jobs, strength and conditioning internships, continuing education and CEUs.

Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists (CSCS) are professionals who apply scientific knowledge to train athletes for the primary goal of improving athletic performance. Learn more about becoming a strength and conditioning coach with the NSCA certification! Visit NSCA.com for more information on strength and conditioning jobs, strength and conditioning internships, continuing education and CEUs.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? Every 3 year(s)

2. Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA)

Train to be a certified nurse assistant working with other health care professionals to provide quality care for elderly or sick individuals in nursing homes and hospitals and at home.

Train to be a certified nurse assistant working with other health care professionals to provide quality care for elderly or sick individuals in nursing homes and hospitals and at home.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? 
Certifying Website
Certified Nurse Assistant

3. Certification in Orthopedic Manual Therapy (COMT)

To become certified through the IAOM-US in Orthopedic Medicine and Manual Therapy, an individual must successfully complete any of the following examinations:Upper Extremity Certification (3 three day courses: Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist & Thumb); Lower Extremity Certification (3 three day courses: Hip, Knee, Ankle & Foot); Complete Extremity Certification (6 three day courses: Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist & Thumb, Hip, Knee, Ankle & Foot); Upper Spine Certification (3 three day courses: Upper Cervical & Headache, Lower Cervical, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome and Cervico-Thoracic Junction); Lower Spine Certification (3 three day courses: LSI-Acute Lumbar &Sacro-iliac Joint, LSII-Recurrent and Chronic Low Back Pain, Thoracic & Ribs); Complete Spine Certification (6 three day courses: Upper Cervical Spine, Lower Cervical Spine, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome and Cervicothoracic Junction, LSI-Acute Lumbar & Sacroiliac Joint, LSII Recurrent and Chronic Low Back Pain, Thoracic Spine & Ribs); UE Track Certification I (3 two day courses: UE Hand, UE Wrist Level I, UE Wrist Level II); UE Track Certification II (3 two day courses:(UE Elbow, UE Shoulder, UE TOS/CTJ) Successful completion of certification for a minimum of three courses (67.5 contact hours) results in a "COMT" Certification. The Certification will become official within two months of the examination date. You will then be entitled to use the initials "COMT" following your name and credentials.

To become certified through the IAOM-US in Orthopedic Medicine and Manual Therapy, an individual must successfully complete any of the following examinations:Upper Extremity Certification (3 three day courses: Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist & Thumb); Lower Extremity Certification (3 three day courses: Hip, Knee, Ankle & Foot); Complete Extremity Certification (6 three day courses: Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist & Thumb, Hip, Knee, Ankle & Foot); Upper Spine Certification (3 three day courses: Upper Cervical & Headache, Lower Cervical, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome and Cervico-Thoracic Junction); Lower Spine Certification (3 three day courses: LSI-Acute Lumbar &Sacro-iliac Joint, LSII-Recurrent and Chronic Low Back Pain, Thoracic & Ribs); Complete Spine Certification (6 three day courses: Upper Cervical Spine, Lower Cervical Spine, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome and Cervicothoracic Junction, LSI-Acute Lumbar & Sacroiliac Joint, LSII Recurrent and Chronic Low Back Pain, Thoracic Spine & Ribs); UE Track Certification I (3 two day courses: UE Hand, UE Wrist Level I, UE Wrist Level II); UE Track Certification II (3 two day courses:(UE Elbow, UE Shoulder, UE TOS/CTJ) Successful completion of certification for a minimum of three courses (67.5 contact hours) results in a "COMT" Certification. The Certification will become official within two months of the examination date. You will then be entitled to use the initials "COMT" following your name and credentials.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? 

4. Certified Program Evaluator (CPE)

A CPE is an individual trained to evaluate and certify undergraduate court reporting programs. The CPE assists the school through the rigorous certification process and performs the official evaluation. If you are committed to helping shape the future of the reporting and captioning professions, consider becoming a CPE. Only CPEs may participate in the NCRA Program Certification Process. NCRA has simplified the process of obtaining certification by reconfiguring the program as a Web-based online course of study. The two seminars that you are required to take can be found in NCRA's E-Seminars catalog on this Web site.

A CPE is an individual trained to evaluate and certify undergraduate court reporting programs. The CPE assists the school through the rigorous certification process and performs the official evaluation. If you are committed to helping shape the future of the reporting and captioning professions, consider becoming a CPE. Only CPEs may participate in the NCRA Program Certification Process. NCRA has simplified the process of obtaining certification by reconfiguring the program as a Web-based online course of study. The two seminars that you are required to take can be found in NCRA's E-Seminars catalog on this Web site.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? 

5. Pediatrics

A physician specializing in Pediatrics is concerned with the physical, emotional, and social health of children from birth to young adulthood.

A physician specializing in Pediatrics is concerned with the physical, emotional, and social health of children from birth to young adulthood.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? Every 10 year(s)
Certifying Website
Pediatrics
Certifying Organization
American Board of Medical...

6. Wound Care Certified (WCC)

The NAWC offers the Wound Care Certification Examination to measure the academic and technical competence of eligible candidates in the area of Skin and Wound Care Management. Upon obtaining a passing score on the Certification examination, candidates may use the initials WCC, Wound Care Certified, to designate their status.

The NAWC offers the Wound Care Certification Examination to measure the academic and technical competence of eligible candidates in the area of Skin and Wound Care Management. Upon obtaining a passing score on the Certification examination, candidates may use the initials WCC, Wound Care Certified, to designate their status.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? Every 5 year(s)
Certifying Website
Wound Care Certified
Certifying Organization
National Alliance of Wound...

7. Master Therapist (MTAPA)

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? No
  • Renewal Required? No

8. Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS)

Established in 1981, the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) is a non-profit, international organization dedicated to professional excellence for the protection of consumers through the certification of recreation therapists. Professional recognition is granted by NCTRC to individuals who apply and meet established standards for certification, including education, experience, and continuing professional development. The Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credential is offered to qualified individuals based on these stringent requirements. NCTRC supports quality human service and health care standards and maintains recognition by the Joint Commission and the Commission for Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). NCTRC provides credential verification services to employers and health care agencies. These services are strongly encouraged by NCTRC to monitor personnel adherence to the standards of the Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist.

Established in 1981, the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) is a non-profit, international organization dedicated to professional excellence for the protection of consumers through the certification of recreation therapists. Professional recognition is granted by NCTRC to individuals who apply and meet established standards for certification, including education, experience, and continuing professional development. The Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credential is offered to qualified individuals based on these stringent requirements. NCTRC supports quality human service and health care standards and maintains recognition by the Joint Commission and the Commission for Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). NCTRC provides credential verification services to employers and health care agencies. These services are strongly encouraged by NCTRC to monitor personnel adherence to the standards of the Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? Every 5 year(s)

9. Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)

A Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) performs routine administrative and clinical tasks to keep the offices and clinics of physicians running smoothly.

A Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) performs routine administrative and clinical tasks to keep the offices and clinics of physicians running smoothly.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? Every 2 year(s)

Entry Level Jobs For Becoming A Physical Therapist

Top 10 Affordable Universities For Physical Therapists

If those top 10 were a bit out of your price range, you might want to check these schools instead. After factoring in in-state tuition and fees, average cost of attendance, admissions rate, average net price and mean earnings after 6 years, we found that these are the most affordable schools for physical therapists.

1. Brigham Young University

Provo, UT • Private

In-State Tuition

$5,620

Cost of Attendance

18,136

Website

www.byu.edu

Address

Main Campus, Provo, UT 84602

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $46,600 per year

Net Price: $13,181 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 64.47%
SAT Average - 1324
ACT Average - 29
Most Popular Majors
Biology
Health And Wellness
Education
Business
Psychology

2. Hunter College of the City University of New York

New York, NY • Private

In-State Tuition

$7,182

Cost of Attendance

13,998

Website

www.hunter.cuny.edu

Address

695 Park Ave, New York, NY 10021

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $39,300 per year

Net Price: $2,796 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 36.42%
SAT Average - 1240
Most Popular Majors
Education
Psychology
Nursing
Biology
Business

3. Florida International University

Miami, FL • Private

In-State Tuition

$6,556

Cost of Attendance

19,434

Website

www.fiu.edu

Address

11200 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL 33199

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $41,500 per year

Net Price: $8,311 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 58.56%
SAT Average - 1185
ACT Average - 25
Most Popular Majors
Biology
Health And Wellness
Psychology
Business
Liberal Arts

4. Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL • Private

In-State Tuition

$5,656

Cost of Attendance

21,623

Website

www.fsu.edu

Address

222 South Copeland Street, Tallahassee, FL 32306-1470

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $39,700 per year

Net Price: $10,744 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 36.78%
SAT Average - 1289
ACT Average - 28
Most Popular Majors
Biology
Health And Wellness
Psychology
Liberal Arts
Education

5. University of Colorado Denver

Denver, CO • Private

In-State Tuition

$9,283

Cost of Attendance

22,243

Website

www.ucdenver.edu/

Address

13120 E. 19th Ave #C288-18, Aurora, CO 80045

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $48,700 per year

Net Price: $15,446 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 63.63%
SAT Average - 1132
ACT Average - 24
Most Popular Majors
Business
Education
Biology
Nursing
Public Health

6. SUNY Stony Brook

Stony Brook, NY • Private

In-State Tuition

$9,625

Cost of Attendance

24,718

Website

https://www.stonybrook.edu

Address

100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, NY 11794-1401

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $44,000 per year

Net Price: $14,893 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 41.98%
SAT Average - 1326
ACT Average - 29
Most Popular Majors
Health And Wellness
Biology
Nursing
Business
Psychology

7. Augusta University

Augusta, GA • Private

In-State Tuition

$8,604

Cost of Attendance

20,618

Website

www.augusta.edu

Address

1120 Fifteenth Street, Augusta, GA 30912

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $52,300 per year

Net Price: $13,438 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 80.06%
SAT Average - 1172
ACT Average - 23
Most Popular Majors
Nursing
Education
Biology
Psychology
Business

8. San Jose State University

San Jose, CA • Private

In-State Tuition

$7,796

Cost of Attendance

24,514

Website

www.sjsu.edu

Address

1 Washington Sq, San Jose, CA 95192-0001

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $47,200 per year

Net Price: $15,270 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 54.66%
SAT Average - 1143
ACT Average - 23
Most Popular Majors
Business
Education
Health And Wellness
Psychology
Biology

9. California State University - Long Beach

Long Beach, CA • Private

In-State Tuition

$6,798

Cost of Attendance

18,306

Website

www.csulb.edu

Address

1250 Bellflower Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90840-0115

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $40,000 per year

Net Price: $8,982 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 31.21%
SAT Average - 1146
ACT Average - 23
Most Popular Majors
Business
Psychology
Biology
Liberal Arts
Kinesiology

10. Tarleton State University

Stephenville, TX • Private

In-State Tuition

$7,292

Cost of Attendance

20,387

Website

www.tarleton.edu

Address

201 St. Felix Street, Stephenville, TX 76402-0000

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $38,200 per year

Net Price: $17,707 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 55.07%
SAT Average - 1056
ACT Average - 21
Most Popular Majors
Health And Wellness
Kinesiology
Nursing
Liberal Arts
Business

Top 10 Hardest Universities To Get Into For Physical Therapists

Some people like a challenge. Well, we challenge you to get into one of these schools. It's not going to be easy. We know this based on these institutions' admissions rates, average SAT scores accepted, median ACT scores accepted and mean earnings of students 6 years after admission.

1. Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • Private

Admissions Rate

8%

SAT Average

1,508

Website

www.northwestern.edu

Address

633 Clark St, Evanston, IL 60208

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $71,900 per year

Net Price: $24,840 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 8.47%
SAT Average - 1508
ACT Average - 34
Most Popular Majors
Biology
Business
Liberal Arts
Psychology
Education

2. Tufts University

Medford, MA • Private

Admissions Rate

15%

SAT Average

1,461

Website

https://www.tufts.edu

Address

Ballou Hall, 2nd Floor, Medford, MA 02155

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $56,600 per year

Net Price: $31,485 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 14.62%
SAT Average - 1461
ACT Average - 33
Most Popular Majors
Health And Wellness
Biology
Public Health
Psychology
Education

3. Loyola Marymount University

Los Angeles, CA • Private

Admissions Rate

47%

SAT Average

1,321

Website

https://www.lmu.edu

Address

One LMU Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90045-2659

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $53,000 per year

Net Price: $39,898 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 47.13%
SAT Average - 1321
ACT Average - 29
Most Popular Majors
Education
Psychology
Biology
Health And Wellness
Liberal Arts

4. Southern Methodist University

Dallas, TX • Private

Admissions Rate

51%

SAT Average

1,395

Website

www.smu.edu

Address

6425 Boaz St, Dallas, TX 75275-0221

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $68,100 per year

Net Price: $36,575 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 51.23%
SAT Average - 1395
ACT Average - 31
Most Popular Majors
Education
Business
Biology
Liberal Arts
Kinesiology

5. Boston University

Boston, MA • Private

Admissions Rate

22%

SAT Average

1,420

Website

www.bu.edu

Address

One Silber Way, 8th Floor, Boston, MA 02215

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $52,800 per year

Net Price: $30,729 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 22.09%
SAT Average - 1420
ACT Average - 32
Most Popular Majors
Business
Biology
Education
Public Health
Psychology

6. Washington University in St Louis

Saint Louis, MO • Private

Admissions Rate

15%

SAT Average

1,506

Website

www.wustl.edu

Address

One Brookings Dr, Saint Louis, MO 63130

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $63,400 per year

Net Price: $27,427 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 15.03%
SAT Average - 1506
ACT Average - 34
Most Popular Majors
Biology
Business
Rehabilitation Science
Public Health
Education

7. Northeastern University

Boston, MA • Private

Admissions Rate

19%

SAT Average

1,466

Website

www.northeastern.edu

Address

360 Huntington Ave, 110CH, Boston, MA 02115

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $57,800 per year

Net Price: $31,855 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 19.34%
SAT Average - 1466
ACT Average - 33
Most Popular Majors
Health And Wellness
Biology
Nursing
Rehabilitation Science
Health Care Administration

8. University of Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, PA • Private

Admissions Rate

59%

SAT Average

1,367

Website

www.pitt.edu

Address

4200 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15260

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $44,300 per year

Net Price: $28,758 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 59.27%
SAT Average - 1367
ACT Average - 31
Most Popular Majors
Biology
Education
Psychology
Rehabilitation Science
Nursing

9. Saint Louis University

Saint Louis, MO • Private

Admissions Rate

58%

SAT Average

1,304

Website

www.slu.edu

Address

One Grand Boulevard, Saint Louis, MO 63103-2097

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $47,000 per year

Net Price: $27,861 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 57.53%
SAT Average - 1304
ACT Average - 28
Most Popular Majors
Nursing
Biology
Rehabilitation Science
Education
Business

10. SUNY Stony Brook

Stony Brook, NY • Private

Admissions Rate

42%

SAT Average

1,326

Website

https://www.stonybrook.edu

Address

100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, NY 11794-1401

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $44,000 per year

Net Price: $14,893 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 41.98%
SAT Average - 1326
ACT Average - 29
Most Popular Majors
Health And Wellness
Biology
Nursing
Business
Psychology

Top 10 Easier To Apply Universities For Physical Therapists

Why make getting a job harder on yourself than it has to be? With these colleges, you're sure to be accepted in no time. We compiled admissions rates, average SAT scores, average ACT scores and average salary of students 6 years after graduation in order to uncover which were the easiest schools to get into.

1. AdventHealth University

Orlando, FL • Private

Admissions Rate

87%

SAT Average

1,016

Website

www.ahu.edu

Address

671 Winyah Drive, Orlando, FL 32803

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $53,500 per year

Net Price: $17,211 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 86.89%
SAT Average - 1016
ACT Average - 20
Most Popular Majors
Health And Wellness
Nursing
Rehabilitation Science
Health Care Administration
Biology

2. Notre Dame de Namur University

Belmont, CA • Private

Admissions Rate

82%

SAT Average

983

Website

www.ndnu.edu

Address

1500 Ralston Ave, Belmont, CA 94002-1908

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $49,000 per year

Net Price: $25,610 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 81.52%
SAT Average - 983
ACT Average - 19
Most Popular Majors
Business
Education
Biology
Health And Wellness
Psychology

3. D'Youville College

Buffalo, NY • Private

Admissions Rate

100%

SAT Average

1,072

Website

www.dyc.edu

Address

320 Porter Ave, Buffalo, NY 14201-1084

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $50,600 per year

Net Price: $20,345 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 99.60%
SAT Average - 1072
ACT Average - 19
Most Popular Majors
Nursing
Rehabilitation Science
Biology
Business
Public Health

4. Mount Saint Mary's University

Los Angeles, CA • Private

Admissions Rate

84%

SAT Average

1,031

Website

https://www.msmu.edu

Address

12001 Chalon Road, Los Angeles, CA 90049

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $57,700 per year

Net Price: $29,267 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 83.82%
SAT Average - 1031
ACT Average - 20
Most Popular Majors
Health And Wellness
Nursing
Education
Liberal Arts
Business

5. Barry University

Miami, FL • Private

Admissions Rate

91%

SAT Average

1,006

Website

www.barry.edu

Address

11300 NE 2nd Ave, Miami Shores, FL 33161-6695

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $43,700 per year

Net Price: $17,937 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 91.25%
SAT Average - 1006
ACT Average - 20
Most Popular Majors
Health And Wellness
Business
Biology
Nursing
Education

6. Ottawa University

Ottawa, KS • Private

Admissions Rate

78%

SAT Average

1,024

Website

www.ottawa.edu

Address

1001 South Cedar, Ottawa, KS 66067-3399

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $41,600 per year

Net Price: $25,322 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 78.15%
SAT Average - 1024
ACT Average - 19
Most Popular Majors
Business
Kinesiology
Biology
Education
Psychology

7. Kean University

Union, NJ • Private

Admissions Rate

86%

SAT Average

991

Website

www.kean.edu

Address

1000 Morris Ave, Union, NJ 07083-0411

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $38,000 per year

Net Price: $18,547 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 85.98%
SAT Average - 991
ACT Average - 20
Most Popular Majors
Education
Psychology
Biology
Business
Health And Wellness

8. Albertus Magnus College

New Haven, CT • Private

Admissions Rate

58%

SAT Average

931

Website

https://www.albertus.edu

Address

700 Prospect St, New Haven, CT 06511-1189

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $45,200 per year

Net Price: $25,089 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 58.07%
SAT Average - 931
ACT Average - 18
Most Popular Majors
Business
Liberal Arts
Health And Wellness
Psychology
Rehabilitation Science

9. University of the Incarnate Word

San Antonio, TX • Private

Admissions Rate

88%

SAT Average

1,044

Website

www.uiw.edu

Address

4301 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $41,000 per year

Net Price: $23,441 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 87.94%
SAT Average - 1044
ACT Average - 20
Most Popular Majors
Business
Health And Wellness
Biology
Nursing
Education

10. Clarke University

Dubuque, IA • Private

Admissions Rate

82%

SAT Average

1,058

Website

www.clarke.edu

Address

1550 Clarke Drive, Dubuque, IA 52001-3198

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $39,700 per year

Net Price: $23,464 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 82.48%
SAT Average - 1058
ACT Average - 21
Most Popular Majors
Health And Wellness
Nursing
Education
Business
Rehabilitation Science

Average Physical Therapist Salary by Education Level

Physical therapists with a Masters degree earn more than those without, at $78,148 annually. With a Doctorate degree, physical therapists earn a median annual income of $76,339.

Physical Therapist Education LevelPhysical Therapist Salary
Master's Degree$78,148
Bachelor's Degree$74,197
Doctorate Degree$76,339

Physical Therapist Internship Jobs

Physical Therapist Jobs