What Kind of Person is Best Suited? These careers attract people with strong scientific aptitude and genuine desire to help others improve their health and quality of life. You need to have excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to motivate patients during challenging rehabilitation processes. Physical stamina and manual dexterity are important, as you'll spend considerable time on your feet providing hands-on treatment. Problem- solving skills are essential for analyzing movement patterns and developing effective treatment strategies. You need patience and empathy, as patients often experience pain or frustration during recovery. The ability to communicate complex medical information clearly helps patients participate in their treatment. Attention to detail and commitment to safety are paramount, as improper techniques can harm patients. What Kind of Education is Generally Required? Physical therapy requires a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from a CAPTE-accredited program. DPT programs require three years of intensive study following prerequisite undergraduate coursework in anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry and physics. Undergraduate preparation often includes exercise science, kinesiology, biology or health sciences, though any major works if you complete required prerequisites. Admission to DPT programs is highly competitive, requiring strong academics, relevant experience and demonstrated commitment. Exercise science careers typically require at least a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology or related fields. Graduate degrees open opportunities for advanced clinical roles, research positions or university teaching. What is the Average Salary? Physical therapists enjoy strong earning potential, with the median annual wage at $99,710 in 2025. The top 10% earn more than $130,870 annually, with variation based on specialization, experience and location. Exercise physiologists typically earn between $60,000 and $80,000 annually, while specialized roles in sports medicine or cardiac rehabilitation may command higher salaries. Travel physical therapy positions often provide 20-30% higher pay plus benefits like housing allowances. What Growth is Possible? Physical therapy shows exceptional demand with employment projected to grow 14% from 2023-2033, nearly three times higher than average for all occupations. Approximately 13,000 job openings are projected annually. The aging Baby Boomer generation creates unprecedented demand for rehabilitation services, while sedentary office lifestyles drive increased need for physical therapy. Health care systems are expanding physical therapy roles in primary care settings and the emphasis on value-based care highlights physical therapy's effectiveness in avoiding expensive surgical interventions. Exercise science professionals see growing demand in corporate wellness programs, health care systems focusing on prevention and sports medicine facilities. Rural and underserved communities face particular shortages, creating excellent opportunities for those willing to work in these areas. Links to Learn More n American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) www.apta.org n American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) www.acsm.org n Bureau of Labor Statistics-Physical Therapists www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physical- therapists.htm Tennessee Career Guide | 2026 99 Tennessee’s Top Careers College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences at Belmont University The College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences at Belmont University offers a comprehensive Exercise Science program that prepares students for immediate career opportunities and advanced health care education. Our program provides a strong foundation in human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and exercise prescription while offering hands-on experience through partnerships with Nashville's diverse health care facilities. Students benefit from state- of-the-art laboratories, dedicated faculty mentorship and clinical experiences that prepare graduates for careers in fitness, wellness, cardiac rehabilitation and sports performance. Our Exercise Science program serves as excellent preparation for students pursuing doctoral programs in physical therapy, with graduates consistently gaining admission to competitive DPT programs nationwide. The Information on this career is submitted and sponsored by
