Because the field is based heavily in science and medicine, physical therapists are required to have bachelor's degrees in fields that relate to the health care industry. These can range from physics, chemistry and biology to pre-med, pre-pharmacy and mathematics. Despite which of the majors you earn, it's important you take a wide range of coursework with lots of foundational sciences such as anatomy, chemistry, physics, and pathology. Additionally, it helps to take social science courses like psychology and clinical reasoning because physical therapists deal with all kinds of people.
Prospective physical therapists must attend graduate school and either earn a Master of Physical Therapy or Doctor of Physical Therapy. The master's program takes two to two-and-a-half years to complete, while the doctoral program can take up to three years to finish. Doctoral graduates are awarded with the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and title. The program includes two years of coursework--which includes classes in biomechanics, neuroanatomy, examination techniques, and human growth and development. The last year of the program is spent in clinical residency. Acceptance into physical therapy graduate school is very competitive and most programs require at least a 3.0 GPA for entry.
Each state in the U.S. has its own regulations on physical therapists, requiring separate licensure. Many regulations overlap, but individual certification is required in every state. Some of the consistent requirements are graduating from an accredited PT program, passing a national PT exam, and passing state exams pertaining to state laws and practicing regulations. Many of the states require PT's to attend frequent continuing education programs to maintain up-to-date credentials and knowledge.