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Job outlook for physical therapy interns in the United States
Physical therapy internship job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected physical therapy internship job growth rate is 17% from 2018-2028.
About 40,400 new jobs for physical therapy interns are projected over the next decade.
Physical therapy internship salaries have increased 7% for physical therapy interns in the last 5 years.
There are over 100,071 physical therapy interns currently employed in the United States.
There are 127,064 active physical therapy internship job openings in the US.
The average physical therapy internship salary is $71,624.
Are physical therapy internship jobs in demand?
Physical therapy internship job and salary trends over time
Physical therapy internship jobs over time
Physical therapy internship job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 100,071 | 0.03% |
| 2020 | 98,081 | 0.03% |
| 2019 | 103,623 | 0.03% |
| 2018 | 101,514 | 0.03% |
| 2017 | 100,102 | 0.03% |
Average physical therapy internship salary over time
Physical therapy internship salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $71,624 | $34.43 | +1.8% |
| 2025 | $70,389 | $33.84 | +1.7% |
| 2024 | $69,200 | $33.27 | +1.2% |
| 2023 | $68,350 | $32.86 | +1.7% |
| 2022 | $67,209 | $32.31 | +1.6% |
Physical therapy internship jobs by state
Most common states for physical therapy interns
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 401 | 30% |
| 2 | Vermont | 623,657 | 139 | 22% |
| 3 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 974 | 14% |
| 4 | West Virginia | 1,815,857 | 235 | 13% |
| 5 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 204 | 11% |
| 6 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 117 | 11% |
| 7 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 61 | 11% |
| 8 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 293 | 10% |
| 9 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 127 | 10% |
| 10 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 340 | 9% |
| 11 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 288 | 9% |
| 12 | Delaware | 961,939 | 82 | 9% |
| 13 | Alaska | 739,795 | 68 | 9% |
| 14 | Indiana | 6,666,818 | 530 | 8% |
| 15 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 495 | 8% |
| 16 | Louisiana | 4,684,333 | 357 | 8% |
| 17 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 175 | 8% |
| 18 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 55 | 8% |
| 19 | South Carolina | 5,024,369 | 344 | 7% |
| 20 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 115 | 7% |
Most common cities for physical therapy interns
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jackson | 1 | 3% | $71,132 |
| 2 | Merrillville | 1 | 3% | $70,317 |
| 3 | Northbrook | 1 | 3% | $74,604 |
| 4 | Broomfield | 1 | 2% | $71,810 |
| 5 | Palm Beach Gardens | 1 | 2% | $68,281 |
| 6 | Albany | 1 | 1% | $69,044 |
| 7 | Lansing | 1 | 1% | $71,112 |
| 8 | Tempe | 1 | 1% | $74,415 |
| 9 | Indianapolis | 2 | 0% | $70,298 |
| 10 | Baton Rouge | 1 | 0% | $72,805 |
| 11 | Detroit | 1 | 0% | $71,155 |
| 12 | Phoenix | 1 | 0% | $74,745 |
| 13 | Washington | 1 | 0% | $77,800 |
Physical Therapy Internship job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of physical therapy internship experts
University of South Florida
University of Puget Sound
Andrews University
University of Vermont
Gulf Coast State College
The University of Texas at El Paso
George Fox University
George Fox University
Fairleigh Dickinson University College at Florham
King's College
University of Central Arkansas
Western New Mexico University
Randolph College
University of Hawai'i at Hilo
Idaho State University
Alice Lloyd College
University of Delaware
The University of Tennessee
Manhattan College
What general advice would you give to a Physical Therapy Internship?
Sumer Samhoury: The best way to maximize your salary potential is to specialize and get board certified in a specific area or population and if you’re passionate about a specific area of expertise, apply for a 1 year residency program. You will learn one on one with board certified experts and save a lot of money on continuing education and be able to sit for a board certification exam by the time you finish it. You will also learn so much more in a short period of time than if you decide to take multiple continuing education courses.
What Physical Therapy Internship skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Sumer Samhoury: My advice would be to find a job where there are many other therapists that can serve as mentors that you can continue to learn from. Being a new grad is challenging because you are now applying everything you learned in school in the clinic and that can be overwhelming without some guidance. It’s also best to start working in an outpatient clinic with patients with a variety of diagnoses and a diverse population to further increase your knowledge base.
What will help Physical Therapy Interns increase their earning potential?
Sumer Samhoury: Telehealth and remote PT is becoming more prevalent and being able to educate patients to become more independent in their care and healing is the direction in which this field is going. It will also allow for greater access to PT for less mobile individuals.
Holly Roberts PT, PhD
Director and Associate ProfessorUniversity of Puget Sound
Rehabilitation And Therapeutic Professions
What general advice would you give to a Physical Therapy Internship?
Holly Roberts PT, PhD: Residency or fellowship training and/or ABPTS board certification can improve salary potential in some settings. It is important for graduates to consider things that are valuable beyond salary. You might value additional time off (flex days or floating holidays), paid continuing education, paid membership for your professional organization, or a flexible schedule. After a certain point, those benefits may be more negotiable than salary.
What Physical Therapy Internship skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Holly Roberts PT, PhD: I think technology will play a bigger role in rehabilitation. It will be important to identify valid and reliable technology tools to enhance rehabilitative care. I also think that AI is going to become more prevalent in our field. It will be important for physical therapists to determine when AI may enhance care or improve clinical efficiency. However, AI cannot replace the clinical reasoning of a Doctor of Physical Therapy, nor can it use its hands to assess, guide, or facilitate movement.
What will help Physical Therapy Interns increase their earning potential?
Holly Roberts PT, PhD: I advise new graduates to be open to new experiences. We are lifelong learners and there are advances in rehabilitation science every day. Ask questions. Identify a formal or informal mentor, but also know that new graduates have something to teach more "seasoned" clinicians as well. I also recommend considering residency or fellowship training and pursuing specialist certification. Finally, find a way to contribute to enhancing our profession and improving the quality of care for patients. That could be through advocacy, research, health promotion and wellness, or clinical instruction.
Nathan Hess PT, DPT, Ph.D. Candidate
Assistant ProfessorAndrews University
Rehabilitation And Therapeutic Professions
What general advice would you give to a Physical Therapy Internship?
Nathan Hess PT, DPT, Ph.D. Candidate: PTs like helping people achieve their goals and return to desired functional levels but dislike dealing with insurance and paperwork.
What Physical Therapy Internship skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Nathan Hess PT, DPT, Ph.D. Candidate: Employment of PTs is expected to grow by 15% over the next 10 years, much faster than the average for all occupations.
What will help Physical Therapy Interns increase their earning potential?
Nathan Hess PT, DPT, Ph.D. Candidate: A PT evaluates and treats patients with mostly neurological or musculoskeletal injuries, focusing on improving mobility, maximizing function, and managing pain.
What general advice would you give to a Physical Therapy Internship?
Carissa Wengrovius: Stay curious and continue to review new literature as the evidence in our field grows and evolves quickly. Find a couple of strong mentors who will support you and help you build your skill set.
What Physical Therapy Internship skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Carissa Wengrovius: Skilled nursing facilities or home health agencies are higher paying settings for a therapist. Travel therapy also offers significantly higher pay. Working in rural areas will maximize your salary because cost of living is low.
What will help Physical Therapy Interns increase their earning potential?
Carissa Wengrovius: Adaptability will be the most important skill for early-career PTs. This will involve being open to learning new technologies, responsive to protocol and treatment changes, and staying current to diverse patient needs.
Adam Padgett PTA
Assistant Coordinator & Director of Clinical EducationGulf Coast State College
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences
What general advice would you give to a Physical Therapy Internship?
Adam Padgett PTA: As the field of physical therapy continually adapts to fluctuating reimbursement rates, the ability to incorporate evidence-based interventions that are also financially viable will be crucial. Examples of such interventions include manual techniques/soft tissue mobilization, neuromuscular education, alongside the therapeutic exercise and activities that are familiar to us. Many facilities are already implementing these practices. Looking ahead, I anticipate the increasing prevalence of interventions such as blood flow restriction techniques and the utilization of augmented/virtual reality technologies.
What Physical Therapy Internship skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Adam Padgett PTA: In my experience, a new graduate clinician's salary often reflects their potential. Employers view hiring new graduates as an investment, and they are more inclined to offer competitive salaries to individuals who exhibit a strong work ethic and a keen desire to learn. This reassures employers that the clinician will continue to develop and improve, leading to better patient outcomes. These improvements can manifest in various ways, such as shorter hospital stays, enhanced patient safety and awareness during daily activities, and overall maximization of patient independence.
What will help Physical Therapy Interns increase their earning potential?
Adam Padgett PTA: Do not mistake graduation and passing the board exam as reasons to stop learning. Your journey from entry-level to mastery-level clinician is just beginning. Seek positions that are willing to continue teaching and molding you into the clinician you aspire to be. This could involve finding a mentor who is willing to guide you as you gain experience or having access to resources such as an allowance or budget for continuing education (CEUs).
What general advice would you give to a Physical Therapy Internship?
Dr. Alvaro Gurovich PT, PhD, FACSM: Find a job with solid mentorship and professional development opportunities. You still need to learn a lot. We educate entry-level generalist Physical Therapists that embrace life-long learning as the field is constantly changing. Ten years from now, ~50% of what you learned won’t be that accurate anymore; the main problem is that we don’t know which 50%. Your DPT degree is not the finish line, it is the beginning of your professional career. Your DPT degree is the launch pad to “the infinity, and beyond”.
What Physical Therapy Internship skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Alvaro Gurovich PT, PhD, FACSM: The physical therapy field has significantly grown in the past few years. It is impossible to cover all new trends and discoveries in 3 years of PT school. Therefore, general PTs will need to start considering more specialized work to keep up with changes in a specific area. I think new graduates should consider a residency or fellowship to continue with their education within 3 to 5 years of graduation. That will allow them to keep up with the new trends and evidence.
What will help Physical Therapy Interns increase their earning potential?
Dr. Alvaro Gurovich PT, PhD, FACSM: First, I would definitely advise our students to save and invest in their professional knowledge. More education should mean more income in the future. A recent study published in the Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Journal showed that physical therapists that enrolled in further educational programs, such as a PhD, can earn better salaries down the road. In addition, investing in advocacy toward the profession is always a smart investment. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) is constantly working to improve the conditions of PTs. If we support the APTA, the APTA will work for us for better conditions. It’s a smart investment.
What general advice would you give to a Physical Therapy Internship?
Jason Brumitt Ph.D.: Couple thoughts. First, it is valuable to stay current on emerging areas of practice. When I was a new graduate 25 years ago, things like blood flow restriction training and dry needling were not around. Now these treatments are emerging as potentially valuable tools in outpatient orthopedic practice. As one stays current on emerging areas one also needs to appreciate the efficacy that supports the use of these treatments. There have been other 'treatments' that have come and gone during my time because they ultimately did not improve patient outcomes. It will be interesting to see how advancements in technology (e.g., AI, virtual reality, gaming) impact how we deliver care. Second, it is always hard to predict the future; because 'we' often focus on what 'we' can get reimbursed to do now. That being said, the visionary therapist will try to work outside the boundaries of traditional practice. What is needed? Health coaching, nutritional counseling, lifestyle medicine. These are areas that we touch on as PTs; however, if we really want to make an impact on population health, these need to be the areas where we lead and excel. There are some working in these realms now and succeeding.
What Physical Therapy Internship skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jason Brumitt Ph.D.: One needs to 'be known'. When you are known in your community you will either have a thriving independent practice or become indispensable to your employer. You want to 'be known' in your community for providing good service. Patients often have the choice where to go for treatment - do they come to you because of word of mouth? Can you create a presence online that attracts clients? Another goal is to 'be known' to referral sources. Referral sources (MD, DO, PA, NP) obviously want their patients to be cared for and feel value for PT service (even if the patient's case didn't improve with conservative treatment). Another way to improve your salary potential is to address needs. For example, some are becoming certified in women's health. Having specialty certifications helps to increase your value because you are able to treat a greater variety of patients. Consider working where others are not. There are regions in the country where there is a lack of PTs. You may be able to demand more since there is a critical need.
What will help Physical Therapy Interns increase their earning potential?
Jason Brumitt Ph.D.: It is important to be a life-long learner. Prior to starting their first job the new graduate has likely only observed a fraction of the types of cases that they will see in their new specialty area. Learning doesn't stop once you have your diploma. Seek knowledge and experience by working with mentor(s), reviewing cases, reading, and taking continuing education courses.
What will help Physical Therapy Interns increase their earning potential?
Tess Swake PT, DPT, OCS, MTC: My biggest advice for a new graduate is to stay connected to professional groups, colleagues or others in the field who will continue to push you to grow. Even though it might seem like you learned most of what Physical Therapy has to offer during your Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, you are just scratching the surface. Surround yourself with people who are pushing the field forward.
What general advice would you give to a Physical Therapy Internship?
Tess Swake PT, DPT, OCS, MTC: As a new graduate, you have many exciting options. I spent the first seven years of my career as a Traveling Physical Therapist, which was a great way to explore different settings within Physical Therapy, create a professional network and pay off student loans. Another great option is to have your main employment and then work On-Call or As Needed (PRN). You can work in a variety of settings such as Acute Care, Skilled Nursing or Outpatient. This is a way to supplement your income and improve your skills as a well-rounded Physical Therapist.
What Physical Therapy Internship skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Tess Swake PT, DPT, OCS, MTC: Utilization of technology in the clinical setting is the future of Physical Therapy. Previously, you might have only used technology in a research setting, but use of Handheld Dynamometry (HHD), Force Plates and modalities such as Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) will be the standard of practice for objective measures and treatment in the future.
What general advice would you give to a Physical Therapy Internship?
Dr. Ken Kosior Prof.: Earning potential has grown with the demand for skills rehabilitation professionals. The best way to maximize growth and salary is continuing education (certificates, advanced credentials, and specialization), exploring non-clinical opportunities in growing fields of healthcare (software, technology, health & wellness), and leveraging your professional degree for per diem, or part-time, employment to build your professional experience.
What Physical Therapy Internship skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Ken Kosior Prof.: Rehabilitative Science fields are people first professions, the skills that will be most important in the next 3-5 years are the interpersonal and 'soft skills'. The advancements in technology, AI, and complexity of the healthcare system the ability to empathize with a client, communicate effectively, and make informed decisions based on data will be critical.
What will help Physical Therapy Interns increase their earning potential?
Dr. Ken Kosior Prof.: Network and take every learning opportunity that comes your way. The professions of PT, OT, etc. within the Rehabilitation Science field are small. Continuing to learn and meet other professionals is critical to your professional success.
Matthew Hawzen PhD
Assistant ProfessorFairleigh Dickinson University College at Florham
Sports, Kinesiology, And Physical Education/Fitness
What general advice would you give to a Physical Therapy Internship?
Matthew Hawzen PhD: Interdisciplinary skills blending technology with traditional kinesiology practices will become increasingly important. Proficiency in digital health technologies, telehealth, wearable fitness devices, and data analysis for personalized care plans are areas poised for growth if they are not already established. Understanding the basics of nutrition, psychology, and biomechanics, as they relate to human movement and performance, will also be critical. These skills not only enhance your ability to offer comprehensive care and advice but also position you at the forefront of advancements in health and wellness.
What Physical Therapy Internship skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Matthew Hawzen PhD: I would offer classic advice: Set a long term goal and short term strategies and objectives that will help you reach it. As you start your career in kinesiology, it is vital to stay curious and proactive about learning. Be genuinely curious and inquisitive. Identify problems and seek out solutions. Moreover, the field of kinesiology is broad, encompassing many areas including physical therapy, sports medicine, fitness training, and wellness coaching. Gain as much practical experience as you can in those areas through internships, volunteer work, or part-time positions. This hands-on experience, combined with your academic knowledge, will be invaluable. Embrace the diversity of opportunities within kinesiology to discover your passion and specialize in an area that aligns with your interests and career goals.
What will help Physical Therapy Interns increase their earning potential?
Matthew Hawzen PhD: To maximize your salary potential in kinesiology, you may want to further your education with specialized certifications or a master's degree in areas like occupational therapy, physical therapy, or sports nutrition. But make sure you do not a cost-benefits analysis. Education isn't cheap, but these qualifications can open doors to more specialized and higher-paying roles. Building a strong professional network and showcasing your expertise through social media or professional blogs can also increase your visibility and value to employers. Be strategic about the positions you accept, aiming for roles in settings or industries known for higher compensation, such as private healthcare facilities, sports teams, or corporate wellness programs. Also, don't be afraid to take some entrepreneurial risks if you want to maximize your income.
Jan Kretzschmar
ProfessorKing's College
What skills stand out on Physical Therapy Internship resumes?
Jan Kretzschmar: The ability to motivate and work in a team.
What soft skills should all Physical Therapy Interns possess?
Jan Kretzschmar: The ability to empathize with patients and make them feel special.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Physical Therapy Interns?
Jan Kretzschmar: Anything related to assessments.
What skills will help Physical Therapy Interns earn the most?
Jan Kretzschmar: Leadership qualities.
Kim Eskola
Senior Clinical Instructor - Exercise ScienceUniversity of Central Arkansas
Exercise and Sport Science
What hard/technical skills are most important for Physical Therapy Interns?
Kim Eskola: Proficient in assessing basic resting measurements (HR, RBP, anthropometric measures); proficient in body composition techniques and basic assessments (cardiovascular, muscular endurance, muscular strength). Experience working one on one or in small groups.
Garrett Peltonen
Assistant Professor of KinesiologyWestern New Mexico University
Sports, Kinesiology, And Physical Education/Fitness
What skills stand out on Physical Therapy Internship resumes?
Garrett Peltonen: Each kinesiology program is slightly different. Here at Western New Mexico University, we aim to provide students with excellent internship opportunities allowing them to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings. In my opinion, this experience is important for future employers.
Carolyn Sarson
Associate Professor of Sport and Exercise Studies, Chair of Physical EducationRandolph College
Sport and Exercise Studies
What hard/technical skills are most important for Physical Therapy Interns?
Carolyn Sarson: Hard skills include knowledge of the following:
Biomechanics of physical movement
Posture and gait mechanics
Muscle and bone anatomy and function
Range of motion of joints and stretching knowledge
Muscle contraction and involvement in specific activity skills
Sport skill analysis
Pathomechanics in activity movement
The role of exercise on muscle function
Ozan Atalağ Ph.D.
Associate Professor, and Chair Kinesiology & Exercise ScienceUniversity of Hawai'i at Hilo
Kinesiology and Exercise Sciences Department
What skills stand out on Physical Therapy Internship resumes?
Ozan Atalağ Ph.D.: Experience in the field takes the first place by far. Whether it be shadowing a coach, a personal trainer, a physical therapist, or joining a research team as a research assistant, collecting data (or being a subject in a study even), or doing practicums. Hands-on, real-life experience is the most important skill in an exercise science/Kinesiology-related resume.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Physical Therapy Interns?
Ozan Atalağ Ph.D.: Having certifications from respected institutions can make a big difference as the competition for positions gets fiercer every day with the increasing number of people. However, hard skills are arguably less important than soft skills, depending on the profession one chooses within the exercise science field. Skills such as being analytical and being able to think critically when designing training/therapy programs or being able to conduct measurements/ assessments or testing sessions can be considered essential.
What skills will help Physical Therapy Interns earn the most?
Ozan Atalağ Ph.D.: Again, this would be dependent on the profession chosen. For example, in the fitness industry, I would argue that social media and online skills, in general, might help a person make a difference in their career whereas, for professions in the medical field such as exercise physiologist, a physical therapist, etc. it would be prior experience.
Dr. Evan Papa Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Physical Therapy Program DirectorIdaho State University
Physical Therapy Program
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Physical Therapy Interns?
Dr. Evan Papa Ph.D.: We do not anticipate that the coronavirus will have any negative impact on our students' ability to acquire gainful employment. In fact, it might actually increase opportunities in physical therapy, as the COVID-19 virus has significant effects on the cardiorespiratory system and physical functioning, at least acutely.
What's a day at work look like for a Physical Therapy Internship?
Dr. Evan Papa Ph.D.: Our field is very broad and so the day-in and day-out routines for physical therapists vary by the settings they occupy. However, they're work won't change because of the coronavirus pandemic. Our vision is to transform society by optimizing movement to improve the human experience. That remains in effect and is actually heightened by the effects of pandemic.
What will help Physical Therapy Interns increase their earning potential?
Dr. Evan Papa Ph.D.: For most physical therapists income potential is driven by payers (insurance). Most payers follow what the federal government is doing with Medicare reimbursements, so it would take legislative action to increase earning potential for those in our field right now.
James Craft Ph.D.
Doctor of Chiropractic, Assistant Professor of KinesiologyAlice Lloyd College
Natural Science and Mathematics Department
What Physical Therapy Internship skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
James Craft Ph.D.: Most of your careers associated with the kinesiology degree are person oriented. I would advise the student to find an internship or a health professional to shadow or work for. The student will gain communication skills, person to person interaction, and also gives them an idea of what it looks like in a real world setting to be a specific clinician they plan to be.
What general advice would you give to a Physical Therapy Internship?
James Craft Ph.D.: Stay passionate. Love what you do and love doing it. The passion will drive all the other necessary things that are needed to begin a new career. When you learn and understand your personal why then that is the foundation of a successful career. Seek opportunities, don't hesitate to ask for advice, and stand strong and work hard. There will be mountains and valleys but the passion will give you the energy to keep going.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Physical Therapy Internship job market given the pandemic?
Adrienne Pinckney PT, DPT, Cert. MDT: For new graduate physical therapists (DPTs) entering the job market, it appears that their options, pertaining to the type of healthcare/rehab setting in which they work, may be a bit more limited than what we witnessed prior to the pandemic. In general, physical therapists can be found in almost all healthcare settings (inpatient acute care hospitals, inpatient rehab facilities, skilled nursing homes/facilities, outpatient clinics, athletic facilities, home care, and many more). Because of the effects of the pandemic on inpatient settings and their patients (hospitals, rehab facilities, nursing homes), we're seeing these effects play out in terms of staffing. Many inpatient facilities, especially acute care hospitals, are not necessarily hiring new graduate physical therapists at the same rate that they were prior to the pandemic. These inpatient facilities have now been forced to focus on recruiting experienced physical therapists in these settings (if they have any hiring needs at all).
The result is that more new graduate physical therapists may be starting their careers in outpatient PT clinic settings or skilled nursing facility settings, as compared to what we have seen in past years, as these facility types appear to be hiring new graduates at the greatest rate among all types of rehab facilities as of late.
Additionally, early on when the pandemic began in spring 2020, new graduate PTs expressed concern about coming into a job market having to compete with experienced PTs who had either completely lost their jobs or been furloughed due to the pandemic. What we saw by the end of 2020 is that new graduates were able to secure employment opportunities; however, these opportunities might not always be one of their top choices in healthcare settings (i.e. some new graduate PTs may want to work in a hospital or inpatient rehab setting, but are only able to secure employment in an outpatient orthopedic or skilled nursing facility setting).
There are also trends in the type of PT employment available based on geographic location in the U.S. This, in and of itself, is no different than before the pandemic; however, these trends are now also affected by the COVID-19 infection rates in these geographic regions. For example: In a state or region where, historically, securing a job in an acute care hospital setting was a rather reasonable expectation, PTs now see that the most abundant job opportunities in this same region may be in outpatient orthopedic facilities or skilled nursing homes.
What Physical Therapy Internship skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Adrienne Pinckney PT, DPT, Cert. MDT: Even in light of the pandemic, I believe that entry level physical therapists (DPTs) should avoid taking a gap year after graduation (unless extreme personal circumstances warrant this decision). Licensed physical therapists are essential healthcare workers and are critical to the spectrum of care and recovery of all patients with a myriad of conditions and injuries, including COVID-19. As such, although PTs may not find jobs in the healthcare setting of their top choice, they will not have trouble finding employment in the United States.
If an entry-level DPT has to take a gap year for whatever personal reason, I strongly recommend that they make every effort to seek out PT mentorship and remain connected to the PT world through trying to be physically present in some capacity in a PT/rehab setting (either as a volunteer, PT aide/tech in a facility, administrative support . . . something) or even in any type of facility related to health & wellness (fitness center, wellness center, etc.), in an effort to stay connected to patient care and exercise their observation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills as a PT clinician. Taking a year off can be very detrimental to passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), which is required for PT state licensure (if the individual doesn't take the exam immediately after graduation), as well as detrimental to their overall skill set as quality physical therapists.
What general advice would you give to a Physical Therapy Internship?
Adrienne Pinckney PT, DPT, Cert. MDT: Be patient and remain open-minded about the type of setting in which you begin your career. Seek out PT mentorship both in the clinical setting/practice area that you start out working in and in the clinical setting/practice area that you aspire to work in (if it's not the same as where you start your career). Many experienced PTs around the country welcome the opportunity to serve as mentors for the next generation of physical therapists. Use resources, including your former professors of your DPT program, as well as the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), to find and reach out to mentors in your desired practice area. Seek to learn something new every day of your PT career for the rest of your lives and be patient with yourselves and with those whom you serve.
Rob Hardin Ph.D.
ProfessorThe University of Tennessee
Kinesiology, Recreation, & Sport Studies Department
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Physical Therapy Internship job market given the pandemic?
Rob Hardin Ph.D.: The job market will definitely be tightening as a result of the pandemic as organizations will assess exactly what their personnel needs are. The concept of what is a traditional work week has changed as the work-from-home trend continues. Employees will seek out opportunities to continue to work from home, and organizations will look to maximize efficiency with employees. There are obviously jobs that do not allow people to work from home, but employees and employers will seek out opportunities to make sure time is used efficiently.
What Physical Therapy Internship skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Christie , M. González-Toro Ph.D.: Opting for a gap year is a choice that can be taken into consideration but should be carefully analyzed from different perspectives. Input from a professor, family member, counselor, or friend can be helpful. One benefit from taking a gap year is that the graduate can gain life experiences and professional growth by becoming active in the field. A disadvantage can be that the graduate can lose momentum or motivation to achieve previously established goals.
It will be a good opportunity for the graduate to explore career paths such as teaching and coaching in public or private elementary, middle, and high schools, fitness facilities, athletic programs, municipal recreation, camp settings, boys and girls clubs, and community programs. Some of these career options require additional licenses or certifications; graduates can work toward the completion of these requirements. Additionally, the graduate can explore and apply to different graduate programs, study and take any entrance exams, and work on any graduate program requirements.