Physical Therapy Schools in Florida

Physical therapy schools in Florida offer a master’s or doctorate degree program that provides students with the training required to become a licensed physical therapist. Most programs last anywhere between two and four years. Once the student graduates from physical therapy school, they become eligible for licensing and employment. A bachelor’s degree is required before applying to physical therapy school. Most students who wish to pursue physical therapy school major in one of the following areas, athletic training, pre-med, pre-physical therapy, massage therapy, or exercise science. As the aging community in Florida continues to grow, physical therapy jobs continue to be on the rise.

Narrow your search:

Keiser University

Associate
Physical Therapist Assistant, AS
Fort Lauderdale, Sarasota

South University - Campus

Associate
Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assisting
West Palm Beach, Tampa

Is a Career in Physical Therapy Right for Me?

What Does Physical Therapy Involve?

Physical therapy is fantastic career for anyone who is interested in how the body works, and who enjoys helping people on a dialy basis. Physical therapists work with patients to restore and improve physical body functions, reduce pain, and prevent the development of more serious complications. You may find yourself working those who suffer arthritis, heart disease, degenerative muscle or bone conditions, injuries, amputations and more. Your role is to assess the patient's condition, develop a therapy plan to restore strength and mobility. As a physical therapist you could work anywhere, in hospital, outpatient facility, or an individual practice, and jobs are usually full-time.

What Education is Required?

In order to become a licensed physical therapist, you must complete at least a master's degree program and complete licensure testing and evaluation, and it is thought that a doctorate may also be required in the future.In some areas continued education is necessary for mainting licensing.

Aside from the official requirements, physical therapists should:

Work well with their hands
Be in healthy physical condition themselves
Be skilled at communicating and making patients feel at ease
Have a passion for helping and encouraging patients in their recovery

What are the Career Opportunities and Outlook for Physical Therapists?

With a growing and aging population, the field of physical therapy shows potential a 27% increase in jobs available by 2016; a higher-than-average growth compared to other job markets, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median income for licensed physical therapists, as of 2006 was $66,200, which is only expected to rise.

A degree in physical therapy can bring you opportunities in clinical and hospital settings, the home health care field and at residential facilities. Choosing a specific focus, such as pediatrics, orthopedics, or elder care will only increase your earning potential and job opportunities.