DPT Program Graduates Enjoy an Exceptional Career Outlook
DPT program graduates (those practitioners holding a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree) are uniquely poised to fill a number of key career roles in the health care industry. The outlook for job opportunities and compensation levels is good, and the demand for licensed, autonomous PT practitioners is projected to grow significantly over the next decade.
Explosive Growth in the Physical Therapist Career Field
Those students who hold a doctoral degree in advanced physical therapy practice enjoy a wealth of opportunities. In fact, this career field is so promising that U.S. News & World Report ranks physical therapist careers among its Best U.S. Jobs for 2016.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that DPT graduates will see a 34 percent growth in the PT career field — much faster than average.
The BLS predicts that more than 71,000 jobs will be added for doctoral practitioners by 2024.
Reasons for the Growing DPT Graduate Demand
As the baby boomer generation continues to age, the demand for health care is increasing exponentially. Physical therapy is a crucial component of rehabilitation in many diseases associated with aging. Rehabilitation after pneumonia, stroke and orthopedic injuries often require the services of the DPT practitioner.
Another health care trend that has taken hold in the United States is the demand for preventive and alternative treatment options. A growing awareness of holistic care models and the benefits of hands-on treatment contribute to this increase in demand.
Today, physical therapy services are considered to be an effective — and often preferable — alternative to prescription drugs and invasive treatments such as surgery.
Finally, improved levels of insurance coverage for U.S. residents mean that significantly more patients can afford physical therapist services.
Improving Your Physical Therapy Career Outlook
Money
magazine also recognizes the physical therapy profession as one of the hottest career fields now and in the coming years. Physical therapy directors, lead physical therapists and advanced, specialized therapists are all listed among the publication’s Best Jobs in America list.
The clinical component of the DPT degree program provides the practical experience necessary for licensure and autonomous practice in any U.S. location. The evidence-based focus used in the Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions’ entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program was designed for the comprehensive development of doctoral level practitioners.
Our innovative program is designed to provide students with exceptional learning opportunities and the skills necessary to manage a socially responsible, evidence-based practice. Contact us today to learn more about our degree program for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT).