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Physical Therapy Career Resources
Physical Therapist Job Overview
WCU’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is designed to prepare graduates to provide patient-centered care that is compassionate, innovative, interdisciplinary, and evidence-based. Upon completion of classroom learning, simulations that mimic real-life treatment scenarios, and three end-of-program clinical internships, DPT graduates can feel confident about pursuing a rewarding physical therapy career.
This resource offers an overview of a career in physical therapy and other information to help support your professional growth.
Sample Physical Therapy Job Titles
- Acute Care PT (Acute Care Physical Therapist)
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
- Home Care Physical Therapist (Home Care PT)
- Inpatient Physical Therapist (Inpatient PT)
- Outpatient Physical Therapist (Outpatient PT)
- Pediatric Physical Therapist (Pediatric PT)
- Registered Physical Therapist (RPT)
Sample Physical Therapist Responsibilities
- Develop individualized care plans for patients, outlining goals and expected outcomes
- Use exercises, stretching maneuvers, hands-on therapy, and equipment to ease patients’ pain, help them increase their mobility, prevent further pain or injury, and facilitate health and wellness
- Review patients’ medical history and referrals or notes from doctors, surgeons, or other healthcare workers
- Evaluate and record a patients’ progress, modifying the care plan and trying new treatments as needed
- Educate patients and their families about what to expect from the recovery process and how to cope with challenges
Top Physical Therapist Qualities
- Strong communication – must clearly explain treatment programs, motivate patients, and listen to patients’ concerns in order to provide effective therapy
- Compassion – must have empathy for their patients and a desire to help them alleviate pain, increase their mobility, and improve their quality of life
- Detail oriented – should have strong analytical and observational skills to diagnose a patient’s issue, evaluate treatments, and provide safe, effective care
- Dexterity – must use their hands to provide manual therapy and therapeutic exercises
- Physical stamina – must spend much of their time on their feet, moving to demonstrate proper techniques and to help patients perform exercises
- Resourcefulness – must be flexible and adapt care plans to meet the needs of each patient
- Time-management skills – must be able to provide appropriate care to patients as well as complete administrative tasks, such as documenting patient progress
For more, see the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Profile for Physical Therapists.
Physical Therapist Job Interview Preparation
“West Coast University’s DPT program has helped me grow as a clinician. I hope to carry these foundations with me as I embark in my journey as physical therapist.”
-Kim Hoang T., DPT Graduate ‘21
Physical Therapy Associations
Physical Therapy Volunteer Opportunities
“I am immensely grateful to the clinical instructors in the field, professors and staff at the WCU for their expertise and willingness to help me guide through the program and subsequently exploring career opportunities in the future.”
-Hrant K., DPT Graduate ‘19
Have Questions?
Get in touch with our team
FAQs
What are some common physical therapist interview questions?
Physical therapy interviews typically focus on patient care, clinical skills, and teamwork. Potential questions you may hear during your physical therapist interview include:
- How do you develop treatment plans for patients with complex conditions?
- Describe a time when you had to adjust your approach to meet a patient’s specific needs.
- How do you stay updated on the latest advancements in physical therapy techniques?
- What is your approach to patient education and engagement in their treatment?
- How do you collaborate with other healthcare professionals in a multidisciplinary team?
What should I include on my physical therapist resume?
Your physical therapist resume should showcase your clinical experience, technical skills, and patient care abilities. Key elements to include are a professional summary briefly explaining your qualifications and career goals, your work experience, education and licensure, skills you want to highlight that are relevant to the role, and any certifications.
What are the benefits of joining physical therapy associations?
Associations like the American Physical Therapy Association provide networking opportunities, continuing education, evidence-based practice resources, advocacy for the profession, job postings, and other perks.
How can WCU Career Services help?
Our Career Services offer a range of services, including career advising and resume review, so you can feel confident about every step of your job search. We’ll help prepare you for real job interviews and give you the tools you need to make a strong impression on hiring managers.
Additionally, we partner with hundreds of employers across various industries, helping to facilitate meaningful connections and opportunities between recruiting companies and our student and alumni populations.
*The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.
WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment.
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