An online bachelor’s degree in physical therapy may assist patients in rehabilitating from injuries and illnesses and improve their overall movement and pain. Students enrolled in these four-year programs may learn how to diagnose patients’ movements, set up planned treatments, and evaluate patients’ progress. Coursework within these programs may include general education requirements, science-related electives, and major-specific courses, such as medical terminology, human anatomy, and kinesiology.

Upon graduation, students may seek entry-level employment or further their education and enroll in a graduate-level program in physical therapy. Baccalaureate-level graduates may find employment opportunities in healthcare, athletics, and education.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Four years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Master’s / Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 39% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within an online baccalaureate-level program in physical therapy may combine general education requirements, science-based electives, and major-specific courses. In these four-year programs, students may learn how to prevent, identify, and assess acute movement dysfunctions. Core physical therapy courses may include the following:

• Kinesiology
• Human Anatomy
• Physiology of Exercise
• Strength and Conditioning
• Medical Terminology
• Neuroscience
• Pathophysiology

Career Options

Graduates of online bachelor’s degree in physical therapy may find career opportunities in healthcare, education, athletics, and administration. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for those pursuing careers as physical therapists are expected to increase by 39% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Physical Therapist
• Occupational Therapist
• Recreational Therapist
• Respiratory Therapist
• Physical Therapy Assistant

Continuing Education

Upon graduation, students may pursue additional education and enroll in a graduate-level program in physical therapy. These upper-level programs may provide students with additional training and skills in exercises and therapy stretching maneuvers.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook