Expected Annual Pay (Texas)
$103,710
Average salary range
Job Title
Physical Therapist
Job Outlook (Texas)
+22%
Employment growth
Level of Education Required
Most physical therapists earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited physical therapy program. A bachelor's degree is typically required before admission to a DPT program, often in fields such as exercise science, kinesiology, biology, or a related area.
Minimum requirement
Credentials or Licenses Required
Physical therapists must hold a license issued by the Texas Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners. Licensure typically requires graduation from an accredited physical therapy program and successful completion of the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
Licenses / Certificates
Work Experience Typically Required
Physical therapists gain experience through supervised clinical education and internships completed as part of their doctoral training. Many also have prior experience in healthcare, rehabilitation, fitness, athletic training, childcare, education, or other roles that involve supporting physical development, movement, or wellness.
Related experience needed
What is this role responsible for day to day?
A physical therapist helps individuals improve movement, manage pain, and restore physical function after injury, illness, or disability. Day‑to‑day responsibilities may include:
- Assessing patients’ strength, mobility, balance, and range of motion
- Developing individualized treatment and rehabilitation plans
- Guiding patients through therapeutic exercises and physical activities
- Using manual therapy and specialized equipment as part of treatment
- Educating patients and families on injury prevention and recovery
- Documenting patient progress and adjusting care plans as needed
Career Snapshots
Explore different career paths within education and find the one that fits your passion
Jennifer
Jennifer started her career as an afterschool teacher while earning her bachelor’s degree in kinesiology. Working with children helped her develop an interest in physical development and how movement supports participation in learning and play. After completing a Doctor of Physical Therapy program, she became a pediatric physical therapist. She hopes to specialize in early intervention services for infants and toddlers.
Brielle
Brielle worked as an assistant teacher in an inclusive preschool classroom during college. Through her work with children receiving therapy services, she became interested in helping children develop mobility and independence skills. After earning her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and licensure, she began working with young children and families. She plans to remain in direct clinical practice long-term because she enjoys seeing children’s progress over time.
Connor
Connor began his career as a physical therapy technician in an outpatient rehabilitation clinic. Working alongside therapists and patients inspired him to pursue a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. As a physical therapist, he enjoys developing treatment plans, tracking progress, and helping people recover from injuries and health conditions. He would like to eventually become a rehabilitation program director.
What are some skills or personal traits that people in this role typically have?
People in this role are attentive, physically active, and detail‑oriented. They communicate clearly, motivate others, and adapt treatment strategies to meet individual recovery goals.
What are some jobs that people had earlier in their careers?
People in this role often previously worked as:
People in this role often previously worked as:
- Physical Therapy Student or Clinical Intern
- Rehabilitation or Exercise Science Support Roles
- Healthcare or Fitness‑Related Assistant Positions
What are some jobs that people in this role have later in their careers?
With experience, people in this role may move into:
With experience, people in this role may move into:
- Specialized Physical Therapy Practice Areas
- Clinical Supervisor or Rehabilitation Program Director Roles
- Healthcare Education, Research, or Administrative Positions