Physical Therapy Degree Return on Investment

Select an institution that offers degrees in Physical Therapy and see the return on investment for jobs in that field.

Alabama State University Arkansas State University – Main Campus Azusa Pacific University Baylor University Bellarmine University Belmont University Boston University Bradley University California State University – Fresno California State University – Long Beach California State University – Northridge California State University – Sacramento Central Michigan University Chapman University Concordia University – Wisconsin CUNY Hunter College Drexel University Duquesne University East Carolina University Emory University Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Florida Gulf Coast University Florida International University Fresno Pacific University George Fox University George Washington University Grand Valley State University Hampton University Hardin – Simmons University Harding University Howard University Indiana University – Purdue University – Indianapolis Ithaca College Loyola University Chicago Marquette University MCPHS University Mercer University Misericordia University Missouri State University – Springfield Mount Saint Joseph University Nazareth College Neumann University New York University Northeast Mississippi Community College Northeastern University Northern Arizona University Northern Illinois University Northwestern University Nova Southeastern University Ohio State University – Main Campus Ohio University – Main Campus Oklahoma Baptist University Oklahoma City Community College Old Dominion University Pace University – New York Quinnipiac University Regis University Rockhurst University Rutgers University – Camden Rutgers University – New Brunswick Sacred Heart University Saint Ambrose University Saint Louis University San Diego State University San Francisco State University Snow College Southern Adventist University Southwest Baptist University Springfield College Stockton University Stony Brook University Temple University Texas State University Texas Woman’s University The College of Saint Scholastica The University of Montana University at Buffalo University of Alabama at Birmingham University of Central Arkansas University of Central Florida University of Cincinnati – Main Campus University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus University of Connecticut University of Dayton University of Delaware University of Evansville University of Florida University of Hartford University of Illinois at Chicago University of Indianapolis University of Iowa University of Jamestown University of Kansas University of Kentucky University of Mary University of Massachusetts – Lowell University of Miami University of Michigan – Flint University of Minnesota – Twin Cities University of Mississippi University of Missouri – Columbia University of Nevada – Las Vegas University of New England University of New Mexico – Main Campus University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of North Dakota University of North Florida University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh Campus University of South Alabama University of South Carolina – Columbia University of South Dakota University of South Florida – Main Campus University of Southern California University of the Incarnate Word University of the Pacific University of Utah University of Vermont University of Washington – Seattle Campus University of Wisconsin – La Crosse University of Wisconsin – Madison University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee Virginia Commonwealth University Washington University in St Louis Wayne State University West Virginia University Western Carolina University Western Kentucky University Winston – Salem State University

When considering a career in physical therapy, one of the most critical factors to evaluate is the return on investment (ROI) of obtaining a physical therapy degree. This decision impacts not only your financial future but also your professional satisfaction and growth in this rewarding field.

Investing in a physical therapy degree typically involves tuition, fees, and other educational costs, which can vary significantly between institutions. However, the potential earnings for physical therapists present a compelling case for this investment. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for physical therapists is quite competitive, often exceeding $70,000. This financial incentive, coupled with a strong job outlook—projected growth of 22% from 2021 to 2031—makes pursuing a degree in this field an attractive option.

Furthermore, the versatility of a physical therapy degree allows graduates to explore diverse career paths, including specialties such as orthopedics, geriatrics, pediatrics, and sports medicine. Each specialty can lead to unique opportunities and potentially higher salaries, enhancing the ROI of your degree.

Beyond financial factors, pursuing a physical therapy degree offers personal satisfaction. The ability to improve individuals' quality of life and enhance their mobility can provide immense fulfillment, making the investment in time and resources even more worthwhile.

When calculating your ROI, it’s essential to consider the long-term benefits, including job stability, career growth, work-life balance, and the intrinsic rewards of helping others. With the demand for licensed physical therapists on the rise, graduates are well-positioned to enjoy a rewarding career.

In summary, while the initial investment in a physical therapy degree may seem substantial, the long-term benefits and professional opportunities it can unlock often outweigh the costs. For those passionate about health and rehabilitation, the ROI of a physical therapy degree is not only financially sound but also personally enriching.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Student loan situations can vary significantly based on individual circumstances, and decisions around deferment or forbearance can have lasting financial impacts. Before making any changes to your loan repayment plan, consult a qualified financial advisor or your loan servicer to understand the best options for your unique situation.