It’s no secret that physical therapy is one of the most booming career paths as of now. When you look at the numbers, it’s easy to tell that the industry is a perfect fit for uncertain young people thinking about beginning a healthcare career, but not really sure where to start. Physical therapy jobs are a stable career to get into these days considering that there were 204,200 open positions in 2012, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and even more today with more Americans insured through the Affordable Care Act! Below we’ll take a look at some of the best physical therapy colleges to consider.
Additionally, PT positions can bring in salaries of $79,860 on average (which is about $38.39/hr.) That’s a lot more than the average yearly income for other positions. Plus, there’s a good level of job-security associated with the physical therapy profession as they project the field to grow 36% in the next 5 years.
So when young people are considering the lucrative field of physical therapy, where should they start? There are over 200 accredited physical therapy programs out there so it can be a tough choice to pick which one is best for students. Recently, however, a new website has launched called BestPhysicalTherapyColleges.co that hopes to shed some light to prospective students looking to get into a PT program that is right for them. The website assists interested individuals in seeking out the best physical therapy colleges.
10 Best Physical Therapy Colleges
1) University of Southern California: Los Angeles, CA
For those who don’t mind a little smog and hope to run into some celebrities, USC is the highest ranking college for both physical therapy and occupational therapy. Not only that, but you’ll be able to soak up some sun in your downtime, which makes this one of the best physical therapy colleges available.
2) University of Delaware: Newark, DE
With over 150 graduate programs available, University of Delaware ranks highly on several lists, according to BestPhysicalTherapyColleges.co. The campus is only a short drive from the beach as well as a few major cities!
3) University of Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh, PA
Located in the 2nd largest city in PA, the University of Pittsburgh ranks as one of the most renowned US colleges to earn PT degrees. The Steel City is full of history and a great place to explore when you’re not studying.
4) Washington University: St. Louis, MO
Tied with the University of Pittsburgh, Washington University has more than just an awesome PT program. They also have an excellent occupational therapy option as well. Although it’s in the Midwest, there are still plenty of activities to do around the St. Louis area.
5) University of Iowa: Iowa City, IA
The University of Iowa is a great college for a plethora of options. However, their physical therapy program is top-notch. Those with other academic interests will have the opportunity to dabble in a handful of other vocations.
6) US Army-Baylor University: Fort Sam Houston, TX
Besides being ranked as the 71st best university in the U.S., US Army-Baylor University hits the top-ten list for physical therapy programs at #6. Texas is one of the states with the most physical therapy positions available, which is great for physical therapists looking to transition directly into a career.
7) Emory University: Atlanta, GA
For those who want to earn their PT credentials in HOT-lanta, Emory University is one of the most excellent places to go. Atlanta is a hotbed for healthcare jobs, so this University is certainly one you should be considering.
8) MGH Institute of Health Professions: Boston, MA
If you’re hoping to earn your physical therapy degree in the northeast, check out MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston, MA. You’ll be directly in the middle of the northeast corridor so you’ll have plenty of career options once you graduate. How about ‘dem apples?
9) Northwestern University: Evanston, IL
One of the top schools for PTS is Northwestern University. Located in the good old Prairie State, NU is one of the biggest healthcare schools in the U.S. are could be your ideal destination for becoming a physical therapist.
10) University of Miami: Coral Gables, FL
If your search for a great PT school is matched by your dreams of beach bummin’ it, then the University of Miami is for you. It’s not just a great place to get your degree but it’s one of the best physical therapy colleges available. Florida is home to a ton of senior citizens, so you’ll have no shortage of patients if you decide to practice within the state.
Where did you do your schooling? Drop your current or former physical therapy University below!
