How much does a physical therapist make

The median annual pay for physical therapists, as of May 2022, was approximately $97,720 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Breaking this down, it means that half of the physical therapists earned more than this amount and the other half earned less. It's notable that the upper 10 percent reported income exceeding $128,830 a year. Understandably, when pursuing a career that requires an advanced degree, like a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, it's wise to assess the cost of education against the expected future earnings, to truly understand the return on investment.

As we consider this investment, Dr. Ruth Maher, the chair of the physical therapy program at PCOM Georgia, reminds us that "Graduate education is expensive." Students must consider program costs, associated fees, textbooks, and living expenses, particularly while on clinical rotations which might be located across the country. But is the physical therapy profession right for you? Maher suggests that prospective students immerse themselves in the various settings physical therapists work in. It's important to recognize the physical nature of this career, which involves lifting, bending, and a multitude of exercises and tasks. Prospective students should also evaluate their personal skills and traits; empathy, compassion, and effective communication are key, catering to a range of individuals from those with life-changing impairments to elite athletes. Furthermore, problem-solving, critical thinking, and self-reflection are vital skills for success both as a student and as a practicing physical therapist.

In Georgia, home to PCOM Georgia's Doctor of Physical Therapy program, the average salary was a respectable $96,670 as of May 2022. Nationally, the top paying states for physical therapists include California, Nevada, New Jersey, Alaska, and Connecticut, with salaries reaching well over $100,000 annually. In the Southeast, Alabama leads, followed by Georgia, Mississippi, Louisiana, and North Carolina. It's also essential to consider the job outlook for the career you are interested in. For physical therapists, the outlook is positive with an expected growth rate of 15 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than average for other professions. This boost is driven partly by the aging baby boomer population requiring increased physical therapy services. For those contemplating a career in physical therapy, PCOM Georgia offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree that's completed in three years, inclusive of full-time clinical experiences to hone skills essential for effective practice. PCOM prides itself on having faculty that are not only educators but also practicing clinicians, researchers, and innovators.

Ultimately, the focus of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at PCOM Georgia is on student success. With optimized learning facilities, including an anatomy lab, simulation center, and physical therapy learning center, the institution prepares students for collaboration in health care, keeping patients first and improving outcomes. Consider what Dr. Maher said: that the decision to pursue physical therapy goes beyond salary - it's about passion, commitment, and the desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives. If you're considering a career in physical therapy and want to learn more, visit pcom.edu/pt.