PT Schools in Texas: The Ultimate Guide

Physical therapy is a vital healthcare profession that aims to help individuals recover from injuries or illnesses that affect their mobility and function. As such, it’s crucial that physical therapists receive excellent training and education in order to provide the best care possible. If you’re considering a career in physical therapy and are looking for top-notch PT schools in Texas, this guide has got you covered.

Why Choose a Physical Therapy Program in Texas?

There are many reasons why you might choose to pursue your physical therapy education in Texas. Here are just a few of the benefits:

• Strong job market: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 22% from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. This means that demand for physical therapists will continue to be strong in Texas and beyond.

• Excellent schools: There are several highly ranked PT schools located throughout Texas, offering both entry-level and advanced degree programs.

• Vibrant healthcare industry: With its large population and varied demographics, Texas offers plenty of opportunities for physical therapists to work with a diverse range of patients and conditions.

Now let’s take a look at some of the top PT schools in Texas.

Top PT Schools in Texas

University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin offers an accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program through its Dell Medical School. This three-year program prepares students for licensure as physical therapists through rigorous coursework and clinical experiences. The program is highly competitive and admits only around 40-50 students each year.

University of North Texas Health Science Center

The University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth offers both an entry-level DPT program and a post-professional DPT program. The entry-level DPT program takes three years to complete, while the post-professional program can be completed in 1-2 years. Both programs offer extensive clinical experiences and opportunities for research.

Texas State University

Texas State University in San Marcos offers an entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy program that can be completed in three years. The program has a strong focus on interprofessional education, preparing students to work collaboratively with other healthcare providers. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and clinical experiences throughout central Texas.

University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston offers an entry-level DPT program as well as a post-professional program. The entry-level program takes three years to complete and includes coursework in foundational sciences, clinical decision-making, and interventions for various patient populations. The post-professional program requires 33 credit hours and can be completed online or on campus.

How to Choose the Right PT School for You

When deciding which PT school in Texas is the right fit for you, there are a few factors you should consider:

• Cost: Tuition costs can vary widely between schools, so make sure to factor this into your decision-making process. Consider whether you’ll need to take out loans or if you’ll be eligible for scholarships or grants.

• Location: Do you want to stay close to home or are you willing to move across the state? Consider how far away from family and friends you’ll be, as well as the cost of living in different parts of Texas.

• Program format: Do you want a traditional classroom-based program or are you interested in online or hybrid learning options? Make sure that the program format aligns with your preferences and learning style.

• Specializations: Some PT programs offer specializations within the field, such as pediatrics or sports medicine. If you know what type of population or setting you want to work with, make sure to consider this when choosing a school.

Conclusion

Choosing the right PT school in Texas is a big decision that can have a significant impact on your future career as a physical therapist. By considering factors like program format, cost, and location, as well as exploring the top PT schools in Texas, you can make an informed decision about which program is right for you. With excellent schools and a strong job market, pursuing your physical therapy education in Texas is a great choice for anyone looking to begin or advance their career in this rewarding field.