Physical Therapy Students Have A Wide Variety Of Master's Programs To Choose From

Having a bachelor's degree in physical therapy is not what it used to be. Since the 1990's, more and more people are feeling the pressure to advance their education beyond a bachelor's degree in order to reap the benefits of higher income and better job opportunities. A master's degree is becoming the new standard in this profession.

One kind of master's degree in physical therapy that is available is referred to as a direct entry master's program. This option is ideal for people who have a bachelor's degree that is not necessarily related to the field directly. Direct entry master's degree programs are typically two years and are broken down into two segments. The first year, and segment, is characterized by the emphasis on classroom study and understanding of core concepts essential to be a successful professional. The next year second segment is dedicated to field work where, in a clinical setting, students practice physical therapy.

Another kind of master's program available is called a transitional program. Students of physical therapy who already have a bachelor's degree in the area should sign up for this program. A transitional program was created to prevent physical therapists that already have a firm understanding of basic concepts from having to sit through material they already know.

Physical therapists have a variety of options when it comes to choosing the setting they would like to work in. One of the most common settings you will find these professionals in is a hospital. Within the hospital's therapist program you will find various subcategories, as there is a different kind of therapy for different parts of the body.

Another common place where physical therapists often work is outpatient clinics. Outpatient clinics can be privately or national owned. Most outpatient clinics specialize in sports rehabilitation and medicine.

Hospitals for rehabilitation or rehabilitation centers are another place that it is common to find these professionals. Among physical therapists, you will find speech therapists and recreational therapists, among other types of therapists. The reason for the variety of therapists within this setting is due to the nature of rehabilitation hospitals and clinics, which is to treat the patient in their entirety. Patients in need of more than one type of therapy may come to one of these facilities seeking help.

Working in a school is another option for a physical therapist because school systems often have a need for one. A benefit of a school position for a physical therapist is having the summer off. Also, home health agencies employ physical therapists to send into the homes of patients who are unable to leave their houses.