If you’ve ever been treated by a physical therapist after an injury or surgery, you’ve probably wondered at some point: “How long will it take to become a physical therapist?” It’s a fair question. The journey looks long and sometimes overwhelming, but for those who genuinely love helping people move again, it’s one of the most rewarding careers in healthcare.
I remember talking to a PT student who once said, “It feels like forever while you’re in school, but once you help your first patient walk again, you forget the years.” That’s the truth of it.
The General Timeline
So, let’s break it down. The timeline isn’t exactly the same for everyone, but generally:
Bachelor’s degree (4 years) — Most programs require a bachelor’s degree in biology, exercise science, or a related field.
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program (3 years) — After undergrad, you need to complete a DPT program.
Clinical internships (built into the program) — Hands-on training in hospitals and clinics.
Licensure exam — The National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) is required in the U.S.
So in total? About 7 years after high school. That’s the standard answer when people ask, “how long does it take to be a physical therapist?”
Why So Many Years?
It’s not just about memorizing anatomy. PTs need to understand biomechanics, neurology, rehabilitation science, and also develop patient communication skills. The long academic path ensures they’re ready for everything from sports injuries to post-stroke rehabilitation.
One professor once said in an interview: “We’re not just training students to know the muscles. We’re training them to treat the whole person.”
Physical Therapy School in NYC
New York City is a unique place to study physical therapy. The energy of the city, the diversity of patients, and the sheer number of healthcare institutions make it a training ground unlike any other.
NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development
Offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
Strong emphasis on clinical rotations in NYC hospitals.
Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons
One of the top PT programs in the nation.
Students spend countless hours in clinical labs and partner hospitals.
Hunter College (CUNY)
Affordable compared to private schools.
Focus on serving New York’s diverse communities.
Studying in NYC also means exposure to cases you might never see elsewhere. From Broadway dancers with repetitive strain injuries to elderly patients in rehabilitation centers, the range is wide.
The Clinical Experience
One of the most important pieces of becoming a PT is hands-on practice. During your DPT program, you’ll rotate through different hospitals and clinics. You might spend one semester in orthopedic rehab and another in a neurological unit.
That’s why it’s not just “school years.” It’s real-world training, and in cities like New York, those experiences are intense. Patients come from every background, and the learning curve is steep but rewarding.
The Emotional Side of the Journey
Let’s be honest: 7 years sounds long. And it is. There are nights of endless studying, days where you question if it’s worth it, and moments where you feel burned out.
But then there’s also the joy. The first time you see a patient who couldn’t move their arm suddenly raise it again after weeks of therapy, you realize every late night was worth it.
One PT student described it like this: “The exams fade in memory, but the patients stay forever.”
Financial and Career Outlook
PT school is expensive, especially in NYC. Tuition at private universities like Columbia can reach $50,000 per year, while public schools like CUNY are more affordable.
But the investment pays off. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for physical therapists in 2023 was about $97,720 and the job outlook is projected to grow 15% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than average.
Related Article: Physical Therapy Salary Trends 2025
Wrapping It Up — How Long Will It Take to Become a Physical Therapist?
So, how long will it take to become a physical therapist? The short answer: about 7 years after high school. But the longer answer is that it’s not just about the years — it’s about the journey. The coursework, the clinical rotations, the long nights, and the small victories all add up to a career that’s meaningful.
If you’re considering it, know this: the path is tough, but the reward is seeing lives change because of your work. And in the end, that’s worth every year of study.
FAQ
How long does it take to be a physical therapist?
On average, 7 years after high school: 4 for a bachelor’s, 3 for a DPT.
Can I study physical therapy in New York?
Yes. NYU, Columbia, and Hunter College all have strong PT programs.
Is PT school hard?
Yes, but it’s rewarding. Expect challenging coursework and intense clinical training.
What’s the job outlook for PTs?
Very positive. Demand is growing, especially as the population ages.