Thinking about becoming a physical therapist?
If you’re passionate about helping people move, recover, and thrive, a physical therapy major might be your perfect match.
What is physical therapy?
Physical therapy (PT) is all about helping patients regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve overall function after injury, illness, or surgery. It’s a hands-on healthcare field where you’ll work closely with people of all ages—from athletes recovering from ACL tears to older adults dealing with arthritis.
Physical therapy vs. occupational therapy
Both PTs and OTs work with people on recovery and independence, but here’s the key difference: PT focuses more on movement and mobility, while occupational therapy zeroes in on daily tasks like dressing, cooking, or writing. If you’re into biomechanics and body movement, PT is probably your lane.
What is a physical therapy major or pre-PT track?
Most schools don’t offer a specific “physical therapy major,” but they do offer a pre-PT track. This track typically falls under majors like kinesiology, exercise science, or biology. Your main goal? Completing PT school prerequisites and clinical experiences so you’re ready to apply to a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.
Required coursework for PT majors
Be ready to hit the sciences hard. Common prerequisite courses include:
Strong grades in these courses are critical for DPT program admission.
Clinical hour requirements and observation
You’ll also need to rack up a certain number of clinical or observation hours under a licensed PT. These hours help you understand the day-to-day job and are often required by graduate programs. Some schools want 100+ hours, and they usually prefer you observe in more than one setting—like outpatient clinics and hospitals.
Path to becoming a licensed PT
Here’s how the journey typically goes:
- Earn your bachelor’s degree (with pre-PT coursework)
- Gain clinical/observation hours
- Take the GRE (if required)
- Apply to DPT programs
- Complete a 3-year DPT program
- Pass the NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam)
- Get licensed in your state
Career opportunities in physical therapy
Physical therapy offers a broad range of specialties and settings. You could work in:
- Sports medicine clinics
- Pediatric rehab centers
- Hospitals
- Skilled nursing facilities
- Orthopedic outpatient clinics
- Home health
And if you’re entrepreneurial, opening your own PT clinic is totally on the table.
How much will I earn with a physical therapy degree?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for physical therapists is around $60,050, with top earners making over $120,000 depending on location and experience.
Notable schools for physical therapy majors
If you’re looking for a strong pre-PT program, check out:
These schools have top-tier DPT programs and strong support for undergrads pursuing PT.
Explore more resources
If you're interested in a degree in physical therapy, we have tools and resources to help. Use Scout College Search to find schools that match your goals and to find scholarships based on your skills and interests. You can also explore a range of , and easily apply for Sallie's .
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