As anyone who’s ever suffered a major injury or illness knows, there are many times when the actual illness is over, but that doesn’t mean one’s fully recovered. Full recovery can take months, even years. While a doctor is never really out of the picture, that’s when the physical therapist comes to the fore. Many of those therapists will have entered into this career through healthcare administration degree.

Physical therapists help individuals who have medical problems that limit their ability to move. They create programs that help their patient’s get back on their feet and function on their own. They also develop plans for healthier and more active lifestyles involving exercise, diet and sometimes medication.

Physical therapists practice in hospitals, outpatient clinics and private offices. Their jobs can be physically demanding, because therapists may have to stoop, kneel, crouch, lift, and stand for long periods. In addition, physical therapists move heavy equipment and patients to help them turn, stand, or walk. Most full-time physical therapists work a 40-hour week. Many work evenings and weekends.

It should be noted that one isn’t a full therapist until getting a minimum master’s degree from a school with a recognized program. While still going for the Bachelor’s, the student should take classes in anatomy, biology, physics, and mathematics among others After getting the four-year degree, the graduate can get a job at a hospital or clinic or continue with post-grad work in physical therapy. It should be noted that sooner or later a PT does need to work with patients, usually under the supervision of a superior, before getting certified.

The Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapist Association, the official certification body of the physical therapy field, recognizes slightly over 200 programs emphasizing accredited degree online. Currently, one must have at minimum a Master’s degree to practice, which takes approximately two to two-and-a-half years after getting one’s Bachelor’s. They also administer the National Physical Therapy Examination, which must be taken after graduating. A number of states require continuing education as a condition of maintaining licensure, so many PTs keep an account with an online college to stay abreast of their field.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary of a physical therapist is slightly over $73,000 a year. It’s not uncommon to earn over $100,000. The benefits usually include health coverage, possible savings and continued education programs. They usually are employed by hospitals, clinics and other major health care institutions. Sooner or later, many therapists set up their own business, either their own facility or moving into home health care.

Currently, there are over 180,000 in the U.S. There will be a need for 30% more by 2018. The Bureau of Labor Statistics calls it one of the fastest growing professions in the country. Considering other professions have a projected growth of roughly 12%, it’s easy to see the need for therapists.

There is an incredible amount of financial aid for students taking distance degree and attending traditional college, so consult your school’s financial aid counselor about it. These and other medical degree programs are worth exploring as a way to enter a fascinating field that really helps people. As it stands, as long as there is a need for therapy, there will be a need for therapists.

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