If you want to get a physical therapy degree without spending all your savings, you should consider looking into some of the cheapest physical therapy schools. These schools offer a great education and outstanding resources at an attractive price.
In this article, we’ll be presenting some of the best and most affordable physical therapy schools and the cheapest physical therapy degrees they offer. We’ll go over their affordable tuition rates, their physical therapy programs, and the different career options available after graduation.
What Are the Most Affordable Physical Therapy Schools in the US?
The most affordable physical therapy schools in the US are the University of Oklahoma, Florida Gulf Coast University, and the University of South Florida. In-state tuition costs for these colleges are almost half the average tuition paid in other public schools in the country, according to US News & World Report.
How Much Do the Cheapest Physical Therapy Schools Cost?
The cheapest physical therapy schools cost between $5,200 and $11,800 per year for in-state students. Out-of-state tuition costs are between $12,600 and $26,600 per year. Physical therapy school costs may vary depending on the program and if you’re taking online courses.
Cheapest Physical Therapy Schools Costs Breakdown
- Tuition. These mandatory fees are associated with the total amount of credit hours you complete throughout the program. They change depending on the university you choose, whether you’re a full-time, part-time, or online student, and your residency status.
- Housing fees. Students who live on campus are charged housing and meal fees to cover their living expenses.
- Health insurance. Health insurance guarantees that students have the aid they need in case of emergencies. Access to local medical facilities is often included in these fees, and the university’s health department provides insurance.
- Wellness fees. These fees cover expenses related to students’ medical and physical health. This includes access to a gym, lessons, and psychiatric support.
- Textbooks. Textbook fees help cover the expenses related to the study materials you may need for your courses.
Why You Should Attend a Physical Therapy School
You should attend a physical therapy school because it will give you a superior education in the field, which will, in turn, open new doors for a better career. Physical therapy degrees can help you access higher-paying jobs in schools, hospitals, professional sports organizations, and residential care facilities.
Another reason for becoming a physical therapist is that these professionals are in high demand. Continue reading below for an overview of the job outlook and average annual salary for physical therapists.
Best Physical Therapy School Career Options
Some of the best physical therapy school career options include recreational therapist, occupational therapist, and physical therapist assistant roles. These jobs require the completion of an associate or bachelor’s degree in the field.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment rates for physical therapists will grow 21 percent from 2020 to 2030. Because people now live longer lives and are active until later in life, it’s likely that older people will become afflicted with mobility-related injuries. This explains the increasing need for physical therapy professionals.
Physical Therapy Salary
The average physical therapy salary is $67,000 per year for someone with a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Therapy, based on PayScale. This value drastically increases for people who decide to continue their superior education, as those with a Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy earn $92,000 on average per year.
Depending on your specialization, overall education, career path, the company or institution you work for, and the state you work in, these average salary values are likely to differ.
Can You Attend Physical Therapy School for Free?
No, you can’t attend physical therapy school for free. In case you’re unable to fully pay for school, there are several financial aid options that can help you reduce your tuition costs and fees and cover some of your expenses.
Some of the most common financial aid types include scholarships, federal and state grants, federal and private student loans, and work-study programs. Different schools offer various alternatives to students.
Cheapest Physical Therapy Schools That Won’t Break the Bank
| School | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences | $5,220 | $21,985 | 76% |
| Florida Gulf Coast University | $6,118 | $25,162 | 56% |
| University of South Florida | $6,410 | $17,324 | 75% |
| Arkansas State University | $7,130 | $12,698 | 54% |
| East Carolina University | $7,297 | $23,574 | 66% |
| San Francisco State University | $7,304 | $19,184 | 54% |
| Texas Woman’s University | $8,394 | $18,186 | 48% |
| University of Central Arkansas | $9,563 | $16,433 | 49% |
| The University of Texas at El Paso | $9,744 | $25,152 | 45% |
| Northern Arizona University | $11,896 | $26,642 | 59% |
What Are the Cheapest Physical Therapy Schools? A Deep Dive
Paying for Physical Therapy School With Financial Aid
Paying for physical therapy school with financial aid is one of the ways you can afford college and be able to cover tuition expenses. The most common financial aid options include federal grants, federal loans, private loans, and work-study programs.
Federal Grants
Federal grants are a popular form of financial aid for students, businesses, and any other type of project that needs financial help. Federal grants are issued by the US government and do not typically need to be paid back. The most common form of federal aid is the Free Application for Financial Student Aid (FAFSA).
Another type of grant that students can apply for is a state grant. These are also designed for anyone who requires financial aid. However, they are only available in specific states, and only residents are eligible to receive them.
Federal Loans
Federal student loans are another option for university students in need of financial aid. Their main disadvantage is that students have to pay them back with interest. However, they are still more manageable than private student loans.
A few advantages include lower interest rates with fixed values, no cosigner obligations, no need for established credit, and you’re required to pay back your federal loans only after you’ve finished your studies and secured a job.
Private Loans
Private loans are offered by banks, credit unions, and other private agencies. They are usually more expensive than federal loans and have stricter policies and conditions that have to be met.
Interest rates in private loans are usually very high and not fixed. You must also have established credit or a co-signer. Due to the high-interest rates of these loans, private loans should be last on your list of financial aid alternatives.
Work-Study
Work-study opportunities are usually found on campus across several university facilities or off-campus in public agencies or non-profit organizations. Part-time and full-time students can take advantage of these job openings to help them pay for their tuition.
Several schools offer these types of jobs in specialized labs from various departments. This means that you can begin working on improving your work resume while still being a student in college.
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How to Apply for Federal Aid to Finance Your Physical Therapy School Program
Applying for federal aid through the FAFSA to finance your physical therapy school program is quick and only requires a few steps. You must create an FSA ID, gather personal and parent information, list all schools you want to apply to, fill out the form, and electronically submit it.
- Create an FSA ID. If you want to fill out your FAFSA electronically, you’ll need an FSA ID. Try creating it beforehand to expedite the process. This ID might also be useful for signing online loan contracts or accessing personal information.
- Gather required information. The FAFSA requires personal information like social security numbers, driver’s license numbers, and alien registration numbers (for non-US citizens). Make sure you have everything you need before you start filling out the form.
- List preferred colleges. Provide a comprehensive list of all schools you’d like to attend. The schools listed will be able to access your FAFSA application to determine whether or not you’ll receive financial aid.
- Report your parent’s information. Regardless of whether you still live with your parents, you’ll have to provide their financial information as well. Be sure to have their information before you start filling out the application form.
- Revise, sign, and submit the form. Once you’re done filling out the form, make sure you read through it to confirm that all your information is correct. The final step is to then electronically sign the application and submit it.
Best Physical Therapy Scholarships
- AMBUCS Scholars – Scholarships for Therapists | Amount: $6,000. This scholarship was created for graduate-level students pursuing degrees in physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and hearing audiology. Individual awards range from $600 to $1,500, and every two years, there is an award of $6,000 available.
- DAR Occupational/Physical Therapy Scholarship | Amount: $2,000. All students attending an accredited occupational therapy program can apply for this scholarship. It is awarded annually to two students.
- American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Mary McMillan Scholarship Award | Amount: $3,000. Students in their last year of studies in physical therapy must be nominated by their professional education program to be eligible for this scholarship. Nominee submissions close on December 1.
- CBCF Louis Stokes Health Scholars Program | Amount: $8,000. This scholarship’s mission is to help increase the number of African American students in healthcare. Candidates must submit a video response, two letters of recommendation, a resume, and transcripts.
- HIE Help Center Scholarship for Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy Students | Amount: $1,000. This scholarship was created for undergraduate or graduate students pursuing careers in physical, occupational, or speech therapy. Applications open every year and end on July 31.
Cheapest Undergraduate Physical Therapy Schools
You can count on some of the cheapest undergraduate physical therapy schools to offer great associate and bachelor’s degrees in the field. Continue reading below for an overview of the top affordable physical therapy degree programs.
Most Affordable Physical Therapy Associate Degree Programs
- Arkansas State University | Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant | $4,655/semester (in state); $8,315/semester (out of state). Students enrolled in this AAS program have the opportunity to learn about patient handling, clinical kinesiology, neuromuscular physical therapy, clinical education, and other major topics in the field to prepare for entry-level roles as physical therapist assistants.
- Hodges University | Associate Of Science In Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) | $595/credit. This associate degree program prepares students to become successful PTAs. They get to work with experienced professionals and intern at clinics for real-world experience.
- West Kentucky Community and Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant | $182/credit (in state); $637/credit (out of state). This program’s comprehensive curriculum features coursework in topics like pathology, functional human anatomy, and rehabilitation aspects.
- University of North Georgia | Associate of Science in Kinesiology with a Concentration in Exercise Science | $106.80/credit (in state); $394.53/credit (out of state). This associate degree program was designed for students who want to continue their studies and transfer to a four-year program. It acts as the first step for students who wish to teach health education in the P-12 school system.
- Oklahoma City Community College | Associate in Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant | $100.84/credit (in state); $191.70/credit (out of state). Students gain all the knowledge and skills they need to complete the licensure exam. Once they get their license, they can work as PTAs, assisting physical therapists in clinics and hospitals.
Most Affordable Physical Therapy Bachelor’s Degree Programs
- University of Texas at El Paso | Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology | $434.30/credit (in state); $947.90/credit (out of state). Students of this program can choose between a concentration in clinical exercise science, human fitness and performance, or PE.
- Florida Gulf Coast University | Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science | $6,118/year (in state); $25,161.70/year (out of state). This bachelor’s degree provides a science-based, interdisciplinary curriculum that takes a holistic look at how the human body navigates movement and exercise throughout its lifespan.
- East Carolina University | Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology | $7,325/year (in state); $23,602/year (out of state). Students of this BS program learn about the human body and exercise science through a hands-on curriculum consisting of lectures, labs, and fieldwork experience to prepare them for master’s and doctoral programs.
- Texas Woman’s University | Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology | $234/credit (in state); $642/credit (out of state). This bachelor’s program prepares students for careers in fitness and occupational therapy and rehabilitation, as well as further studies in pre-physical therapy programs.
- University of Oklahoma | Bachelor of Science in Health and Exercise Science | $4,920/year (in state); $21,488/year (out of state). This interdisciplinary program trains students in rehabilitation aspects pertaining to health, wellness, and exercise and is the first step toward pursuing a physical therapy doctoral degree.
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Cheapest Graduate Schools for Physical Therapy
You can also find some amazing master’s and doctoral degree programs at some of the cheapest graduate physical therapy schools. Read below for an overview of the top programs.
Most Affordable Schools for Master’s Degrees in Physical Therapy
- University of Central Arkansas | Master of Science in Exercise Science | $498.86/credit (in state); $784/credit (out of state). This program gives students in-depth knowledge of physiology, biomechanics, and motor control. They can choose between a thesis or non-thesis option, depending on whether they want to continue their studies.
- University of South Florida | Master of Science in Exercise Science | $347.91/credit (i -state); $424.52/credit (out of state). Students of this program will explore coursework in environmental health, fitness safety, sports nutrition, and physical activity behavior and have the option of completing a graduate thesis.
- Arkansas State University | Master of Science in Exercise Science | $4,472/semester (in state); $7,964/semester (out of state). This master’s degree program requires 33 hours of coursework and offers both thesis and non-thesis options.
- San Fransisco State University | Master of Science in Kinesiology | $8,440/year (in state); $11,212/year (out of state). Students in this MS program will gain theoretical knowledge and practical research skills in kinesiology and human physiology.
- University of Texas at El Paso | Master of Science in Kinesiology | $7,696/year (in state); $17,530/year (out of state). This 36-credit program improves students’ qualitative research skills and professional knowledge of health and exercise science.
Most Affordable PhDs in Physical Therapy Universities
- East Carolina University | PhD in Bioenergetics and Exercise Science | $3,806.47/semester (in state); $10,380.97/semester (out of state). Students of this PhD program have access to labs and research facilities to conduct research regarding mechanisms by which movement influences disease processes, prevention, and treatment.
- Texas Woman’s University | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | $284/credit (in state), $692/credit (out of state). DPT graduates are able to demonstrate practice management and leadership skills and promote health and wellness. By the end of the program, they will be ready to take the licensure examination and become licensed physical therapists.
- University of Oklahoma – Health Sciences Center | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | $390.08/credit (in-state); $583.45/credit (out of state). This 108-credit doctoral program features a case-based curriculum that trains students to become certified, expert-level professionals in the field of physical therapy.
- Northern Arizona University | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | $11,390/year (in-state); $27,940/year (out of state). This doctoral program is designed to prepare graduates for a broad range of positions within the physical therapy field through its interdisciplinary, cutting-edge curriculum.
- San Francisco State University | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | $8,440/year (in state); $11,212/year (out of state). DPT students will enjoy an interprofessional education and gain necessary soft skills like teamwork and communication as they learn through coursework, research, and work in physical therapy clinics.
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How to Choose a Good and Affordable Physical Therapy School
An affordable tuition rate and physical therapy school requirements are not the only factors to consider during your school search. There are a few additional factors you should take into account before choosing a program. Be sure to look for educational institutions with small class sizes, high student success rates, a large number of available scholarships, and online programs.
Class Sizes
Choosing schools that feature smaller class sizes is a good investment. Having a low student-to-faculty ratio helps students get a more personalized learning environment that allows them to easily connect with faculty and other mentors.
Student Success Rates
Another major factor to consider is the overall success rate among graduates. Before enrolling in a physical therapy school, try doing some research about how many students pass the certification exam or go on to get successful careers in their field after they graduate, depending on the type of program.
Available Scholarships
If saving money is a priority for you and you want to avoid student debt as much as possible, try finding out how many scholarships each university offers. A high number of scholarships means that you have a better chance of receiving financial aid. Even with high initial tuition costs, scholarships ensure that you can still attend a program at an affordable cost.
Online Programs
Enrolling in online programs is also a good option when trying to find an affordable physical therapy school. You’ll get some schedule flexibility and may be able to conjugate your studies with other responsibilities. But the main advantage is that most schools have specific online tuition and fees, which are usually lower than in-person program costs.
In-State Tuition
There are several excellent physical therapy programs all across the country, so you can likely find one that’s closer to home. Choosing a school that is located in the state you reside in is a great way to make your college experience more affordable, as most schools charge reduced tuition rates for in-state residents.
Tips for Saving Money While Attending Physical Therapy School
- Update your FAFSA. Your FAFSA form has to be submitted every year. Make sure it is always updated so that you have a higher chance of receiving financial aid.
- Apply for work-study programs. Consider looking and applying for work-study programs or positions at your school. These are helpful opportunities that can help pay for your tuition and improve your resume at the same time.
- Use campus services. Gyms, food, concerts, and sports events are just a few of the things you’re likely to find for free or at a reduced cost on campus.
- Buy or borrow used textbooks. If you know older students in your field, try asking them for their old textbooks. If they don’t lend them to you, they’ll probably accept selling them at reduced prices.
- Carry your student ID. Your student ID can get you student discounts at several stores, restaurants, and other businesses, so make sure you always have it on you.
Cheapest Online Schools for Physical Therapy
The following section covers the cheapest online physical therapy schools. Continue reading for the top online physical therapy schools and the degrees they offer. If you are still also unsure about which physical therapy major to choose and are looking for a flexible program the following courses may be a good fit for you.
| School | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern Oregon University | $278/credit (in state); $320/credit (out of state) | 38% |
| Oregon State University | $346/credit | 68% |
| University of North Dakota | $384.88/credit | 62% |
| Northern Arizona University | $11,160/year | 59% |
| Maryville University | $500/credit | 73% |
Most Affordable Online Physical Therapy Bachelor’s Programs
- Eastern Oregon University | Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance | $278/credit (in state); $320/credit (out of state). Students can complete this program as a BS or BA degree. They can also choose a concentration in nature and outdoor recreation programming, community health, exercise science, or physical education and sport.
- University of North Dakota | Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology | $384.88/credit. This 120-credit online program covers several courses in motor learning, adapted physical activity, physical conditioning, biomechanics, and exercise physiology.
- Northern Arizona University | Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences – Allied Health, Physical Therapist Assisting Emphasis | $11,160/year. Expert faculty equip students with relevant knowledge and skills so that they can learn how to provide excellent patient-centered care. The program is open to those with an associate degree in a health science-related field.
- Oregon State University | Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology | $346/credit. Students learn about the role of physical activity and movement in health and wellness and develop practical skills through online lab work. This degree program requires the completion of 180 credits.
- Maryville University | Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science | $500/credit. This online BS includes coursework in anatomy, injury prevention, kinesiology, community health, and nutrition. Students must complete 128 credits to complete this program.
Most Affordable Online Physical Therapy Master’s Programs
- William Jessup University | Master of Science in Kinesiology | $550/credit. This program teaches in-depth concepts in biomechanics, exercise physiology, strength, and conditioning. Both researchers and practitioners in the field can benefit from this program since they can choose between a thesis and a non-thesis option.
- University of North Dakota | Master of Science in Kinesiology | $547.10/credit. Students are required to complete 30 credits in order to graduate from this program. It combines the technical knowledge of kinesiology-related courses with professional workplace skills.
- California University of Pennsylvania | Online Master of Science in Exercise Science and Health Promotion with a Concentration in Rehabilitation Science | $6,192/semester (in state); $6,684/semester (out of state). This program focuses on research in musculoskeletal rehabilitation and biomechanical evaluation. It can be completed in 12 months by full-time students, or in 17 months by part-time students.
- Concordia University Chicago | Online Master of Science in Applied Exercise Science with a Concentration in Human Movement Science | $475/credit. Students of this MS program learn how to develop injury prevention programs, help people improve functional capacity, and correct faulty movement patterns in patients.
- Aurora University | Master of Science in Exercise Science | $565/credit. This program’s coursework includes physical program organization and administration, sports nutrition and psychology, research methods, and exercise physiology.
Will Attending an Online Physical Therapy School Save Me Money?
Yes, attending an online physical therapy school will save you money. You won’t have to travel or relocate to attend your classes, nor will you have to pay housing fees or any other fees related to being an on-campus student. In addition, online program tuition costs are usually lower than on-campus degrees.
Benefits of Online Physical Therapy Programs
- Wide range of programs. Since you’re not restricted by geographical location, you can enroll in the physical therapy program that interests you most. Online formats allow you to take classes from anywhere in the world.
- Flexibility. Most online programs are asynchronous, which means you can go at your own pace. This allows you to balance different responsibilities with your studies and even gives you time to focus on other passions.
- Affordability. Online program tuition values are usually cheaper than in-person degrees. Plus, you can save the money that you would’ve spent on relocating, transportation, and housing costs.
- Time management skills. If you’re a working professional enrolled in an online program, you’ll need to learn how to manage your time between your responsibilities. This skill is extremely important in nearly every career field, and online programs will help you further develop this skill.
- Productivity boost. While some people love working first thing in the morning, others are night owls and feel more productive in the evening or late at night. Online classes allow you to work whenever you’re feeling the most productive.
Highest-Paying Physical Therapy Careers
| Physical Therapy Job | Physical Therapy Degree | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Therapist | Doctoral degree | $95,620 |
| Occupational Therapist | Master’s degree | $85,570 |
| Physical Therapist Assistant | Associate degree | $61,180 |
| Athletic Trainer | Bachelor’s degree | $54,650 |
| Recreational Therapist | Bachelor’s degree | $53,900 |
Best Physical Therapy Jobs Explained
The best physical therapy jobs include physical therapist, occupational therapist, and physical therapist assistant positions. Athletic trainer and recreational therapist careers are also considered among the best physical therapy jobs available to graduates in the field.
Physical Therapy Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Most Affordable Physical Therapy Schools
We chose the most affordable physical therapy colleges based on tuition and general costs information from the schools’ official websites, the US Department of Education’s database of accredited schools, and the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard tool.
Additional Reading About Physical Therapy
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Cheapest Physical Therapy Schools FAQ
The most important skills for physical therapy students include communication, critical thinking, time management, compassion, and listening skills. Those who become a physical therapist must also have patience, flexibility, and motivation. These skills are taught in most public and private institutions.
Some of the top companies hiring physical therapists include Trilogy Health Services, Encore Rehabilitation Services, and Legacy Healthcare Services. The average salaries for these companies vary between $86,000 and $92,800.
Physical therapy is beneficial because it reduces and eliminates pain, improves mobility, and prevents sports injuries. In some cases, physical therapy can even help avoid surgery and manage diabetes, lung, and heart disease.
Physical therapy can be used to treat many disorders and illnesses like muscle strain, back pain, postural problems, arthritis, and some neurological conditions. It can also make a positive difference in cases of headaches, balance problems, and difficulties when walking.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
