About Physical Therapy
A career in physical therapy offers exciting and rewarding opportunities.
Physical therapists are health care professionals who evaluate and treat people with health problems resulting from injury or disease. Among other responsibilities, physical therapists assess joint motion, muscle strength and endurance, function of heart and lungs, and performance of activities required in daily living. More than 258,000 physical therapists practice in the United States today, treating nearly one million people every day.
Physical therapists practice in hospitals, private physical therapy offices, community health centers, industrial health centers, sports facilities, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, home health agencies, schools or pediatric centers, research institutions or teach in colleges or universities.
After graduation, candidates must pass a national licensure exam. Other requirements for physical therapy practice vary from state to state according to physical therapy practice acts or state regulations governing physical therapy.
You Can Be Me: A Career in Physical Therapy
Video: Why I Chose a Career In Physical Therapy
According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapists is expected to grow 18 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for physical therapy services will come from the aging baby boomers, who are staying active later in life. In addition, physical therapists will be needed to treat people with mobility issues stemming from chronic conditions, such as diabetes or obesity.
Physical Therapy Organizational Links
- American Physical Therapy Association: National professional organization web site with numerous resources for professionals and students
- Tennessee Physical Therapy Association: State professional organization web site with information on membership and upcoming local events of interest
- Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy: Information on the board examinations for licensure
Job Placement
More than 258,000 physical therapists practice in the United States today, treating nearly one million people daily. The UTC Physical Therapy Program offers a curriculum which prepares graduates to work in a variety of healthcare settings and serve patient populations across the lifespan.
- U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics - Physical Therapy Information
- Physical Therapist named a "Best Job" by US News & World Report and Business Insider
- CNN Money names Physical Therapy the 8th "Best Job in America"
- Forbes Magazine names Physical Therapy one of "The Ten Happiest Jobs"
APTA News Release
Physical therapy: a career that fits your future
"Alexandria, VA â For Americans looking for a rewarding career in a struggling job market and down economy, a career in physical therapy could be the perfect answer. Boasting plentiful job openings, strong job security, flexibility and a high satisfaction rating among those working in the field, a career in physical therapy has been ranked among the best jobs in America by major publications, including CNNMoney.com, Forbes, and US News & World Report."...