Master’s in Physiotherapy in the USA: Top Universities, Course Highlights & Key Details

Introduction

In the United States, pursuing a master’s degree in physiotherapy opens doors to a wealth of fulfilling career prospects, particularly in light of the nation’s soaring demand for proficient physiotherapists. Within the realm of healthcare, physical therapy or physiotherapy stands out as one of the most rapidly advancing disciplines.

As such, this article will delve deeper into the advantages and prospects presented by a master’s degree in physiotherapy in the USA, shedding light on the dynamic landscape of this field and the opportunities it offers to dedicated individuals seeking to make a positive impact on patients’ lives.

 

Master’s in Physiotherapy USA: Program highlights

The following table entails all the critical aspects you would like to skim through to get a brief idea about pursuing an MS in Physiotherapy in the USA.

Specializations	Paediatrics Physiotherapy Obstetrics Physiotherapy Sports Physiotherapy Neurology Physiotherapy Orthopedic Physiotherapy Geriatrics Physiotherapy Post Operative Physiotherapy Cardiovascular Physiotherapy
Course duration	2 years
Course fees (approximatley)	$20,000 to $60,000 annually
Eligibility criteria	3-4 years of Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from a recognized university Minimum of 3 GPA out of 4 * For exact eligibility criteria, you need to check the official university website
Entrance exam	GRE scores of 280 or more, depending upon the institution
English proficiency proof	TOEFL (a minimum of 80) or IELTS (a minimum of 6.5)
Admission requirements	A three- to four-year bachelor’s degree in STEM or a related field A GPA of 3.0 out of 4 (65-70%) English Proficiency Test Scores GRE scores ( depending on the institution) CV – work experience for some institutions 3 Letters of Recommendation (Academic and Professional) * For exact admission requirements, you need to check the official university website
Top recruiting companies	ATI Physical Therapy Encompass Health Kaiser Permanente Select Medical Center Well Athletico PT Solutions Physical Therapy
Job profiles and average salaries	Physical Therapist (PT) – $86,500 Rehabilitation Director – $99,000 Physical Therapy Director – $95,000 Physical Therapy Manager – $94,000 Director of Operations – $119,000 Physical Therapist Director – $98,000 Rehabilitation Manager – $108,000 Licensed Physical Therapist – $84,500

 

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Top 10 universities in USA for Masters in Physiotherapy

These institutions, renowned for their commitment to excellence, not only offer a solid foundation in physiotherapy but also provide a platform for students to contribute to the dynamic field of healthcare.

University	QS World Ranking 2025	Program name	Average tuition fee (USD)
Ohio State University	208	Doctor of Physical Therapy	$53,424 approximately
Cleveland State University	1201-1400	Doctor of Physical Therapy	$25,000 approximately
Emory University	196	Doctor of Physical Therapy	$41,400 approximately
Duke University	61	Doctor of Physical Therapy	$39,140 approximately
Northwestern University	50	Doctor of Physical Therapy	$58,000 approximately
University of Delaware	498	Doctor of Physical Therapy	$60,000 approximately
University of Pittsburgh	275	Doctor of Physical Therapy	$48,000 approximately
University of Southern California	125	Doctor of Physical Therapy	$52,000 approximately
University of South Alabama	1201-1400	Doctor of Physical Therapy	$20,000 approximately
University of Iowa	596	Doctor of Physical Therapy	$40,000 approximately

Please note: The tuition fees provided here are subject to change at the discretion of each university. For the latest information, please visit the official website of your chosen institution.

 

Master’s Programs in the USA

 

Why should you study MS in Physiotherapy in USA?

Studying for a Masters in Physiotherapy in USA offers numerous compelling reasons for prospective students.

• Abundant career opportunities

The USA’s robust healthcare system has a growing demand for skilled physiotherapists, offering a wide range of job prospects in hospitals, clinics, sports facilities, and educational institutions.

In the United States, physiotherapy stands out as one of the highly rewarding professions, with annual salaries ranging from USD 48,000 to well over USD 115,000 and beyond.

These domains present avenues where physiotherapists can anticipate abundant career prospects:

1. Home Health and Hospice Services
2. Outpatient Clinics
3. Professional Sports Teams
4. Rehabilitation Facilities
5. Research Centres
6. Educational Institutions/Sports Teams
7. Sports and Fitness Training Centres

• High-quality education

American universities are renowned for their cutting-edge research and state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring students receive a top-tier education with exposure to the latest advancements in the field.

• Practical experience

Students gain valuable practical experience through clinical placements, enhancing their skills and readiness for the workforce.

• Cultural diversity

The USA’s diverse and multicultural environment enriches the educational experience, fostering cultural competency and preparing graduates to work effectively with a variety of patients.

• International networking

Pursuing a Masters in Physiotherapy in the USA offers opportunities for international networking and collaboration, broadening career prospects worldwide.

• Scholarship opportunities

Scholarships for Masters in Physiotherapy in the USA are plentiful, with some offering full financial support, such as the Fulbright Foreign Student Scholarship Program. This program is inclusive of students pursuing various master’s and Ph.D. degrees and extends its generosity to applicants from 155 countries worldwide, allowing them to enroll at prestigious US universities without concerns about educational expenses.

• Scholarships and funding

These scholarships provide valuable opportunities for international students pursuing a Master’s in Physiotherapy in the USA to access financial assistance and fulfill their academic and career aspirations.

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program facilitates graduate students and young professionals from abroad who are conducting research and pursuing studies in the United States for a period of one year or more at US universities or other eligible institutions.

Award: Fully-funded

Eligibility: Strong academic profile

Deadline: Same as the course application deadline

2. Quad Fellowship

The Quad Fellowship is an innovative scholarship program that supports 100 exceptional master’s and doctoral students from the United States, Japan, Australia, and India in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Award: A one-time award of $50,000 for academic expenses and an additional $25,000 to cover costs associated with graduate-level studies

Eligibility: Demonstrated record of exceptional academic achievement at the undergraduate level

Deadline: Same as the course application deadline

• Internship opportunities

Internship opportunities for Masters in Physiotherapy students in the USA abound, offering invaluable hands-on experience and a chance to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world healthcare settings. Here are some common avenues where students can explore internship opportunities:

    1.Hospitals

Many large hospitals in the USA have dedicated physiotherapy departments where students can undertake internships. These placements often expose students to a wide range of cases, including post-operative rehabilitation, trauma recovery, and chronic condition management.

     2. Outpatient clinics

Outpatient clinics specializing in physiotherapy provide opportunities to work with patients on a variety of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. These settings are ideal for honing clinical skills.

     3. Rehabilitation centers

Rehabilitation facilities focus on helping patients regain independence and functionality after injuries, surgeries, or medical conditions. Interning in these centers allows students to work closely with individuals in need of long-term care and recovery.

    4. Sports teams and athletic organizations

For those interested in sports physiotherapy, internships with professional sports teams, college sports programs, or sports medicine clinics offer exposure to sports-specific injuries and rehabilitation.

    5. Schools and special education centers

Some students may choose to work with children and adolescents with special needs or developmental delays. Schools and special education centers provide opportunities to gain experience in pediatric physiotherapy.

    6. Research institutes

If you’re inclined towards research, internships in research institutes affiliated with universities or healthcare organizations can offer a chance to contribute to ongoing studies and clinical trials.

    7. Home health care

Internships in home health care agencies involve working with patients in their homes, offering a unique perspective on providing care in a home environment.

    8. Nursing homes and long-term care facilities

These settings allow students to work with elderly individuals and those with chronic conditions, focusing on improving their quality of life and mobility.

    9. Community health centers

Serving underserved populations, community health centers offer a diverse patient base and the opportunity to make a significant impact on healthcare disparities.

    10. Private practices

Physiotherapy private practices provide a chance to observe how clinicians manage their own patient caseloads and the business aspects of running a practice.

To secure internships, students typically liaise with their academic institutions, which may have established partnerships with healthcare facilities. Networking, attending job fairs, and reaching out to potential employers can enhance internship opportunities. These internships not only provide valuable experience but also help students build a professional network and strengthen their future career prospects in physiotherapy.

 

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Conclusion

MSM Unify overseas education consultant offers the opportunity to engage with proficient study-abroad advisors for personalized guidance. MSM Unify study abroad consultant also assists in navigating a comprehensive selection of over 50,000 courses spanning 1,400 institutions worldwide, aiding in the identification of the most suitable course and university.

The platform facilitates the pursuit of scholarships and financial support while extending full support throughout the admission process, ensuring applicants secure placement at their preferred university.

 

FAQs

1. How long does a Master’s in Physiotherapy program typically take in the USA?

A Master’s in Physiotherapy typically takes about 2 to 3 years to complete, depending on the university and the specific program structure.

2. What are the prerequisites for applying to a Master’s in Physiotherapy?

Applicants usually need a bachelor’s degree in a related field, completion of specific prerequisite courses (like anatomy and physiology), and relevant clinical experience.

3. Which are the top universities for a Masters in Physiotherapy in the USA?

Some of the top universities include the University of Southern California, Columbia University, and the University of Delaware, known for their strong physiotherapy programs.

4. Is the GRE required for admission to a Master’s program in Physiotherapy?

Many programs do not require the GRE; however, some may still consider it. Checking the specific requirements of each university is important.

5. What is the typical cost of a Master’s in Physiotherapy in the USA?

Tuition costs vary significantly by institution, ranging from $20,000 to $60,000 per year, not including additional expenses like living costs and materials.

6. Are there online or hybrid Master’s in Physiotherapy programs available?

Yes, several universities offer online or hybrid programs that combine online coursework with in-person clinical training.

7. What career opportunities are available after completing a Master’s in Physiotherapy?

Graduates can work as licensed physiotherapists in hospitals, private practices, rehabilitation centers, and sports organizations, with various specialization options.

8. How can I prepare for a Master’s in Physiotherapy program?

Focus on gaining relevant volunteer or work experience, studying foundational sciences, and preparing for any required standardized tests or interviews.

9. What are the key skills developed during a Master’s in Physiotherapy program?

Students develop critical thinking, patient assessment, therapeutic techniques, communication skills, and the ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team.

10. Can international students apply for a Master’s in Physiotherapy in the USA?

Yes, international students are welcome to apply, but they must meet specific admission requirements, including proof of English proficiency and a valid visa.