How long is physical therapy school?

Physical therapy school typically takes three years to complete. Upon completion, a graduate is awarded a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. While an undergraduate degree is often needed for admission to physical therapy school, some colleges offer programs with combined undergrad and graduate degrees in six years.

Courses in a typical DPT program include physiology, kinesiology and motor control. Students also take classes in physical therapy management. About 80 percent of a DPT program is spent in a traditional class setting, and about 20 percent is spent in hands-on clinical work. A one-year residency program is an option after graduation to allow a therapist to specialize.