6 Ways To Land Military Physical Therapy Jobs

Landing Military Physical Therapy Jobs: A Career of Service and Reward

Military physical therapy jobs offer a unique blend of service, challenge, and reward. As a physical therapist in the military, you'll have the opportunity to work with service members, veterans, and their families, helping them to recover from injuries and maintain optimal physical health. If you're passionate about physical therapy and want to serve your country, here are six ways to land military physical therapy jobs.

Meet the Basic Requirements

Before you can start applying for military physical therapy jobs, you'll need to meet the basic requirements. These typically include:

• A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program
• A valid physical therapy license
• U.S. citizenship
• A minimum age of 21 (maximum age varies by branch)
• Passing a physical fitness test

Get the Right Education and Training

To become a physical therapist in the military, you'll need to earn a DPT degree from an accredited program. Look for programs that are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). You'll also want to gain experience through internships or volunteer work.

Choose the Right Military Branch

Each branch of the military has its own physical therapy program, with different requirements and opportunities. Consider the following:

• Army: The Army offers a range of physical therapy opportunities, including working with wounded warriors and conducting research.
• Navy: The Navy has a large physical therapy program, with opportunities to work on ships, in hospitals, and in clinics.
• Air Force: The Air Force has a smaller but still robust physical therapy program, with opportunities to work in hospitals, clinics, and research settings.
• Coast Guard: The Coast Guard has a small but growing physical therapy program, with opportunities to work in clinics and hospitals.

Network and Make Connections

Networking and making connections can help you learn about job opportunities and get your foot in the door. Attend military job fairs, join professional organizations, and connect with current or former military physical therapists.

Consider a Military Residency Program

Military residency programs can provide advanced training and experience in a specific area of physical therapy. These programs are highly competitive, but can be a great way to specialize and advance your career.

Get Familiar with the Military Culture

Working in the military requires a unique blend of clinical skills and military protocol. Take the time to learn about the military culture, including the chain of command, military jargon, and protocols for working with patients.

Pursue Certification and Specialization

Certification and specialization can help you stand out in a competitive job market. Consider obtaining certification in a specialty area, such as sports physical therapy or orthopedic physical therapy.

Stay Flexible and Adaptable

Working in the military requires flexibility and adaptability. Be prepared to work in a variety of settings, from hospitals to clinics to field environments.

Gallery of Military Physical Therapy Jobs

Military Physical Therapy Jobs Image Gallery

What are the basic requirements for military physical therapy jobs?

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The basic requirements for military physical therapy jobs typically include a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program, a valid physical therapy license, U.S. citizenship, and a minimum age of 21.

Which military branch has the largest physical therapy program?

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The Army has the largest physical therapy program, with opportunities to work with wounded warriors and conduct research.

What is the difference between a military residency program and a civilian residency program?

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Military residency programs are designed to provide advanced training and experience in a specific area of physical therapy, with a focus on military protocol and procedures. Civilian residency programs, on the other hand, focus on advanced training and experience in a specific area of physical therapy, without the military component.

If you're passionate about physical therapy and want to serve your country, consider pursuing a career in military physical therapy. With the right education, training, and experience, you can land a rewarding job in the military and make a difference in the lives of service members and their families.