An online master’s degree in physical therapy may provide students with the skills and training needed to detect, prevent, and assess bodily conditions. Students enrolled in these upper-level programs may study basic and clinical sciences, hone skills in critical inquiry, and understand intervention techniques. Coursework within these programs may include science-based electives and major-specific courses, such as cardiopulmonary physical therapy, patient management, and exercise physiology.

Upon graduation, students may seek employment or pursue additional education and enroll in a doctoral-level program in physical therapy. Master’s-level graduates may find employment opportunities in education, healthcare, and research.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 39% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within an online master’s in physical therapy may combine science-based electives and major-specific courses. In these upper-level programs, students may apply critical-thinking practice to clinical issues, use ethical and legal standards toward patient care, and understand behavioral and clinical sciences. Core physical therapy courses may include the following:

• Anatomy and Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy
• Patient Management
• Neuroscience
• Survey of Human Disease
• Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Exercise Physiology

Career Options

Graduates of online master’s-level programs in physical therapy may find careers in education, healthcare, research, and sports. 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 /li>
• Recreational Therapist
• Chiropractor
• Physical Therapy Assistant

Continuing Education

Upon graduation, students may pursue additional education and enroll in a doctoral-level program in physical therapy. In these PhD programs, students may complete coursework in basic and applied sciences as well as partake in clinical rotations.

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