By admin 
If you have seen the letters DPT after a physical therapist’s name, you may wonder what they mean. DPT stands for Doctor of Physical Therapy, the clinical doctorate degree that physical therapists in the United States must earn before they can be licensed.
What does a DPT do?
A physical therapist with a DPT examines patients, identifies movement problems, creates treatment plans, and guides recovery. They treat people with back pain, sports injuries, joint replacements, stroke, balance problems, and many other conditions.
How long does it take to earn a DPT?
Most DPT programs take about three years of full-time study. Students usually complete a four-year bachelor’s degree first, so the full path is roughly seven years. Some universities offer combined programs that shorten the total time.
What do DPT students study?
- Anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics
- Pathology and pharmacology
- Examination and diagnosis of movement problems
- Therapeutic exercise and manual therapy techniques
- Neurological, orthopedic, and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation
- Evidence-based practice and research
- Several full-time clinical placements in real healthcare settings
How to become a licensed physical therapist
- Complete a bachelor’s degree with the required prerequisite courses.
- Graduate from an accredited DPT program.
- Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
- Meet your state’s licensing requirements, which may include a law exam and a background check.
DPT vs other physical therapy titles
A physical therapist assistant (PTA) works under the direction of a physical therapist and usually holds an associate degree. A physical therapy aide helps with setup and cleaning and does not provide treatment on their own. Only a licensed physical therapist can evaluate patients and write the plan of care.
Do you need a DPT to practice?
In the United States, new physical therapists need a DPT to qualify for licensure. Therapists who qualified earlier with a master’s or bachelor’s degree can continue to practice.
Frequently asked questions
Is a DPT a real doctor? A DPT is a doctoral degree in physical therapy. DPTs are not medical doctors (MDs) and do not prescribe medication.
Can a DPT diagnose? Physical therapists diagnose movement and functional problems within their scope of practice, and refer patients to doctors when needed.
Is DPT hard to get into? Programs are competitive, with strict prerequisites, grades, and observation hours.