Education and Credentials
As highly-educated specialists in restoring the normal movement and function of your muscles and joints, physical therapists typically have the following training and education:
- An undergraduate health sciences degree
- Either a master’s degree or a clinical doctorate in physical therapy
- Extensive hands-on clinical training
- Optional specialization in orthopedics, geriatrics, sports injuries or other fields
- Studies in anatomy and physiology, exercise science and biomechanics, and neuroscience
Before they begin practice as physical therapists, they must also pass a national licensing exam in physical therapy and continue periodic professional education to retain their license.
