Becoming a physical therapist typically requires about seven to eight years of education after high school. This includes a four-year bachelor’s degree followed by a three-year Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. Some students may take longer if they need prerequisite courses or choose a part-time schedule.
What degree do you need to become a physical therapist?
You need a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program. This is a clinical doctorate that prepares you to take the national licensing exam. All 50 states require a DPT for physical therapists as of 2026.
Before applying to a DPT program, you must complete a bachelor’s degree. Your undergraduate major can be anything, but you must finish specific prerequisite courses. Common prerequisites include anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology.
How many years of school to be a physical therapist: detailed timeline
Here is a typical breakdown of the years required to become a physical therapist:
| Education Step | Typical Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s degree | 4 years | Any major accepted, but must include prerequisites |
| Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | 3 years | Full-time, classroom and clinical rotations |
| Licensing exam preparation | 1–3 months | Study and take the NPTE |
| Optional residency or fellowship | 1–3 years | Specialized training after graduation |
Most students finish in seven years if they go straight through. If you need to take prerequisite courses after your bachelor’s, add one to two semesters. Some accelerated DPT programs allow you to complete the degree in 2.5 years.
What about combined programs?
Some universities offer combined bachelor’s-to-DPT programs that take six or seven years total. These programs let you start graduate coursework earlier and may shorten the overall timeline. However, they are very competitive and require a strong academic record.
If you choose a combined program, you still need to meet all prerequisite and clinical requirements. Graduates from these programs are eligible for the same license as those who take the traditional route.
Steps to become a physical therapist
Here are the main steps you will follow on your path to becoming a physical therapist:
- Complete a bachelor’s degree with required prerequisite courses (4 years).
- Apply to and earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from an accredited program (3 years).
- Pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.
- Apply for state licensure in the state where you want to practice.
- Complete continuing education courses to maintain your license throughout your career.
Can you become a physical therapist in less than seven years?
It is possible but very rare. Some accelerated DPT programs last 2.5 years, and combined programs can finish in six years. However, you must still complete all prerequisites and clinical hours.
If you already have a bachelor’s degree in a related field like exercise science, you may finish prerequisites faster. Some students also take summer courses to speed up the process. But most people should plan for seven years of full-time study.
What about online or part-time options?
Most DPT programs are in-person because they require hands-on clinical training. A few hybrid programs mix online coursework with on-campus labs. Part-time DPT programs exist but are uncommon and may take four to five years to complete.
For the bachelor’s degree, many students take online classes for general education requirements. But you will need in-person labs for science prerequisites like anatomy and physiology. Check with each program to see what format they offer.
Financial aid and planning for PT school
Physical therapy school can be expensive, but financial aid is available. You can apply for federal student loans, grants, and scholarships through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Many schools also offer merit-based scholarships for DPT students.
Start saving early and research tuition costs for programs you are interested in. Some states have loan forgiveness programs for physical therapists who work in underserved areas. Consider these options when planning your education path.
Summary
To become a physical therapist, plan for about seven years of school after high school: four years for a bachelor’s degree and three years for a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Some students finish faster through combined or accelerated programs, but most take the full timeline. Focus on completing prerequisites, gaining observation hours, and researching accredited DPT programs to set yourself up for success.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many years of school to be a physical therapist if I already have a bachelor’s degree?
If you already have a bachelor’s degree with the required prerequisites, you only need three years for the Doctor of Physical Therapy program, so about three years total.
Can I become a physical therapist with a two-year degree?
No, you need a bachelor’s degree and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, which takes at least six to seven years after high school. A two-year degree is not enough.
Do I need a specific major to get into PT school?
No, you can have any major as long as you complete the prerequisite courses in subjects like anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, and physics.
Is a DPT the same as a PhD in physical therapy?
No, a DPT is a clinical doctorate that prepares you to treat patients, while a PhD is a research degree. You need a DPT to become a licensed physical therapist.
How long does it take to get licensed after finishing PT school?
After finishing your DPT, you typically need one to three months to study for and pass the National Physical Therapy Exam, then apply for state licensure.
