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�°䱫’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is designed to prepare graduates to provide patient-centered care that is compassionate, innovative, interdisciplinary, and evidence-based. Upon completion of classroom learning, simulations that mimic real-life treatment scenarios, and three end-of-program clinical internships, DPT graduates can feel confident about pursuing a rewarding physical therapy career.

This resource offers an overview of a career in physical therapy and other information to help support your professional growth.

Sample Physical Therapy Job Titles

• Acute Care PT (Acute Care Physical Therapist)
• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
• Home Care Physical Therapist (Home Care PT)
• Inpatient Physical Therapist (Inpatient PT)
• Outpatient Physical Therapist (Outpatient PT)
• Pediatric Physical Therapist (Pediatric PT)
• Registered Physical Therapist (RPT)

Sample Physical Therapist Responsibilities

• Develop individualized care plans for patients, outlining goals and expected outcomes
• Use exercises, stretching maneuvers, hands-on therapy, and equipment to ease patients’ pain, help them increase their mobility, prevent further pain or injury, and facilitate health and wellness
• Review patients’ medical history and referrals or notes from doctors, surgeons, or other healthcare workers
• Evaluate and record a patients’ progress, modifying the care plan and trying new treatments as needed
• Educate patients and their families about what to expect from the recovery process and how to cope with challenges

Top Physical Therapist Qualities

• Strong communication – must clearly explain treatment programs, motivate patients, and listen to patients’ concerns in order to provide effective therapy
• Compassion – must have empathy for their patients and a desire to help them alleviate pain, increase their mobility, and improve their quality of life
• Detail oriented – should have strong analytical and observational skills to diagnose a patient’s issue, evaluate treatments, and provide safe, effective care
• Dexterity – must use their hands to provide manual therapy and therapeutic exercises
• Physical stamina – must spend much of their time on their feet, moving to demonstrate proper techniques and to help patients perform exercises
• Resourcefulness – must be flexible and adapt care plans to meet the needs of each patient
• Time-management skills – must be able to provide appropriate care to patients as well as complete administrative tasks, such as documenting patient progress

For more, see the .