Physical Therapists
Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.
Median salary
$102,760/yr
Typical range
$86,160 – $121,160
Education
Doctoral degree
Time to entry
About 8+ years of higher education
What a Physical Therapists does
Physical therapists treat patients with injuries, disabilities, and illnesses using exercises, stretching, and hands-on techniques to reduce pain and restore movement. They help patients regain strength, mobility, and function for everyday activities and sports.
Education & path
The typical entry point is a doctoral degree. About 8+ years of higher education.
Estimated cost of that path: ~$110,000. Estimated payback: ~5 years. Estimates only — actual cost varies widely by school and financial aid; payback assumes ~20% of income applied.
Related careers
- Clinical Nurse Specialists — $97,550/yr
- Acute Care Nurses — $97,550/yr
- Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses — $97,550/yr
- Critical Care Nurses — $97,550/yr
- Registered Nurses — $97,550/yr
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