Kinesiology to PT? (Don’t Miss This Career Hack!)

Introduction

Remember that scene in “Rocky” where he’s training, pushing his body to the limit, and his physical therapist is right there, guiding him?

Or think about the medical dramas where someone’s recovering from a major injury, and the physical therapist is instrumental in their journey back to health?

These aren’t just movie moments; they highlight the real-world importance of physical fitness and rehabilitation.

Physical health and rehabilitation are super important in today’s world. More people are realizing they need to take care of their bodies.

And that’s where kinesiology and physical therapy come in.

As an educational counselor, I’ve seen countless students explore different paths, and one that consistently stands out is the transition from a kinesiology degree to a career in physical therapy (PT).

It’s a smart move, and I’m here to tell you why.

Think of this article as your insider’s guide to navigating that path.

We’ll break down what kinesiology is, what physical therapy involves, and how you can leverage a kinesiology degree to become a PT.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Section 1: Understanding Kinesiology

So, what exactly is kinesiology?

Simply put, it’s the study of human movement.

It’s about understanding how our bodies move, why they move the way they do, and how we can improve movement for health, performance, and overall well-being.

Think of it as the science behind every step, jump, and stretch.

Kinesiology programs are packed with fascinating subjects. You’ll delve into:

• Biomechanics: This is all about the physics of movement. How forces act on the body, how levers work in our limbs, and how to optimize movement efficiency.

• Exercise Physiology: This explores how our bodies respond to exercise. You’ll learn about energy systems, cardiovascular function, and how to design effective training programs.

• Motor Learning: This focuses on how we learn and control movements. You’ll study the brain’s role in movement, how practice improves skills, and how to rehabilitate movement after injury.

• Anatomy and Physiology: A deep dive into the structure and function of the human body, essential for understanding how everything works together.

With a kinesiology degree, you’ll gain a diverse set of skills and knowledge. You’ll learn to:

• Analyze movement patterns.
• Assess physical fitness.
• Design exercise programs.
• Understand the physiological responses to exercise.
• Apply principles of rehabilitation.

But here’s the thing: kinesiology isn’t just a stepping stone to physical therapy. It opens doors to a wide range of careers.

You might find yourself working as a:

• Personal Trainer: Designing and implementing fitness programs for individuals or groups.

• Strength and Conditioning Coach: Working with athletes to improve their performance.

• Exercise Physiologist: Helping individuals with chronic diseases improve their health through exercise.

• Recreation Therapist: Using recreational activities to improve the physical and mental well-being of individuals with disabilities or illnesses.

• Ergonomist: Designing workplaces and equipment to optimize human performance and prevent injuries.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for exercise physiologists, for example, is projected to grow 11 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. (Source: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/exercise-physiologists.htm)

The median annual wage for exercise physiologists was $54,230 in May 2022.

So, kinesiology is a versatile degree with plenty of options. But if you’re drawn to the world of rehabilitation and helping people recover from injuries, physical therapy might be your calling.

Section 2: The Path to Physical Therapy

Okay, let’s talk about physical therapy.

What do physical therapists (PTs) actually do?

They’re healthcare professionals who help people of all ages and abilities improve their movement, reduce pain, and manage chronic conditions.

Think of them as movement experts who use a variety of techniques, including:

• Exercise: Designing and implementing therapeutic exercise programs to improve strength, flexibility, and coordination.

• Manual Therapy: Using hands-on techniques to mobilize joints and soft tissues.

• Modalities: Applying treatments like heat, ice, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.

• Education: Teaching patients about their condition and how to manage it.

PTs work in a variety of settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Outpatient clinics
• Rehabilitation centers
• Sports medicine clinics
• Schools
• Home health agencies

Now, to become a physical therapist, you’ll need to meet specific educational requirements. The standard path involves earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.

Here’s the breakdown:

1. Bachelor’s Degree: You’ll need a bachelor’s degree, often in a related field like kinesiology, biology, or exercise science.

2. DPT Program: This is a three-year graduate program that provides in-depth training in physical therapy theory and practice.

3. Licensure: After graduating from a DPT program, you’ll need to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to become a licensed physical therapist.

So, what’s the difference between a kinesiology degree and a DPT degree?

A kinesiology degree provides a broad foundation in human movement science. It’s a great starting point, but it doesn’t qualify you to practice as a physical therapist.

A DPT degree, on the other hand, is a professional degree that specifically prepares you to become a licensed physical therapist. It includes extensive clinical training and focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions.

Both kinesiology and DPT programs emphasize the importance of clinical experience and internships.

In kinesiology, you might have the opportunity to intern with a sports team, a rehabilitation center, or a corporate wellness program.

In a DPT program, you’ll complete multiple clinical rotations in various settings, working under the supervision of licensed physical therapists.

These experiences are crucial for developing your clinical skills and gaining real-world experience.

Section 3: The Career Hack – Transitioning from Kinesiology to PT

Alright, let’s get to the heart of the matter: how can you, as a kinesiology graduate, transition into physical therapy?

Think of your kinesiology degree as a solid foundation upon which you can build your physical therapy career.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Meet Prerequisite Requirements: DPT programs typically require specific prerequisite courses, such as anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, and physics. Make sure you’ve completed these courses as part of your kinesiology degree or take them separately.

2. Gain Observation Hours: Most DPT programs require you to complete a certain number of observation hours in various physical therapy settings. This allows you to shadow licensed PTs and get a feel for the profession. Aim for at least 100 hours in diverse settings.

3. Prepare for the GRE: The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is a standardized test that many DPT programs use as part of their admissions process. Prepare for the GRE by taking practice tests and focusing on your areas of weakness.

4. Craft a Strong Application: Your application should highlight your academic achievements, clinical experiences, and personal qualities. Emphasize your passion for physical therapy and your commitment to helping others.

5. Ace the Interview: If you’re selected for an interview, be prepared to answer questions about your motivations for pursuing physical therapy, your understanding of the profession, and your goals for the future.

Now, let’s talk about bridging the gap between kinesiology and PT.

Certain courses and certifications can strengthen your application and prepare you for the rigors of a DPT program. Consider taking courses in:

• Advanced Anatomy: A more in-depth study of the human body, focusing on musculoskeletal anatomy and biomechanics.

• Medical Terminology: Learning the language of medicine will help you communicate effectively with healthcare professionals.

• Exercise Prescription for Special Populations: This course will teach you how to design exercise programs for individuals with chronic diseases and disabilities.

You might also consider obtaining certifications in:

• Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS): This certification demonstrates your knowledge of exercise science and your ability to design and implement strength and conditioning programs.

• Certified Personal Trainer (CPT): This certification shows your competency in assessing fitness levels and designing personalized exercise programs.

Now, for the exciting part: are there any shortcuts or unique opportunities for kinesiology graduates?

Absolutely!

• Accelerated Programs: Some universities offer accelerated DPT programs that allow you to complete your degree in less time. These programs are typically more intensive, but they can save you time and money.

• Partnerships Between Universities: Some universities have partnerships with undergraduate kinesiology programs, guaranteeing admission to their DPT program for qualified students.

• Direct Entry Programs: Some universities offer direct entry DPT programs, where you can apply directly from high school and complete your bachelor’s and DPT degrees in a combined program.

I’ve seen many students successfully transition from kinesiology to PT.

For example, I worked with Sarah, who graduated with a kinesiology degree and wasn’t sure what to do next. She shadowed a physical therapist and realized that was her passion.

She took a few extra prerequisite courses, aced the GRE, and got into her dream DPT program. Now, she’s a successful PT helping athletes recover from injuries.

“My kinesiology degree gave me a great foundation,” Sarah told me. “I already understood the basics of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics, which made the DPT program much easier.”

Section 4: The Job Market and Future of PT

Let’s talk about the job market. Is physical therapy a good career choice in terms of demand?

The answer is a resounding yes!

The job market for physical therapists is strong and is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 15 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. (Source: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physical-therapists.htm)

This growth is driven by several factors, including:

• Aging Population: As the population ages, there will be a greater need for physical therapists to treat age-related conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis, and stroke.

• Increasing Prevalence of Chronic Diseases: Chronic diseases like diabetes and obesity are becoming more common, leading to a greater need for physical therapy to manage these conditions.

• Advances in Medical Technology: Advances in medical technology are allowing people to live longer and recover from injuries and illnesses that were once considered fatal. This is creating a greater demand for physical therapists to help these individuals rehabilitate.

• Growing Awareness of the Benefits of Physical Therapy: More people are recognizing the benefits of physical therapy for preventing and treating injuries and improving overall health and well-being.

The median annual wage for physical therapists was $97,720 in May 2022. (Source: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physical-therapists.htm)

And it’s not just about the numbers.

The field of physical therapy is constantly evolving, with advancements in technology and new treatment approaches emerging all the time.

For example, virtual reality (VR) is being used to create immersive rehabilitation experiences for patients with stroke and other neurological conditions.

Robotics is being used to assist patients with movement and improve their strength and coordination.

And telehealth is being used to provide physical therapy services remotely, making it more accessible to patients in rural areas.

As a kinesiology graduate considering a career in physical therapy, it’s important to stay up-to-date on these trends.

Consider taking continuing education courses, attending conferences, and reading research articles to learn about the latest advancements in the field.

Section 5: Challenges and Rewards of Being a PT

Let’s be real: being a physical therapist isn’t always easy.

There are challenges you’ll face along the way.

One common challenge is emotional burnout.

You’ll be working with patients who are in pain, frustrated, and sometimes uncooperative. It’s important to develop coping mechanisms and maintain a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout.

Dealing with difficult patients can also be challenging.

Some patients may not follow your instructions, may have unrealistic expectations, or may be resistant to treatment.

It’s important to be patient, empathetic, and to communicate effectively with these patients to build trust and rapport.

But despite these challenges, the rewards of being a physical therapist are immense.

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of helping a patient regain their independence and improve their quality of life.

Seeing a patient who couldn’t walk without assistance take their first steps on their own is an incredibly rewarding experience.

The opportunity for continual learning and advancement is another major perk of the profession.

Physical therapy is a dynamic field, and there’s always something new to learn. You can specialize in areas like sports medicine, orthopedics, neurology, or pediatrics.

I asked a practicing physical therapist, “What do you love most about your job?”

She said, “I love seeing the progress my patients make. It’s so rewarding to help them achieve their goals and get back to doing the things they love.”

Another PT told me, “I love the intellectual challenge of physical therapy. Every patient is different, and I have to use my knowledge and skills to develop a treatment plan that’s tailored to their specific needs.”

Conclusion

So, there you have it: the inside scoop on transitioning from kinesiology to physical therapy.

As I’ve shown, a kinesiology degree provides a strong foundation for a career in physical therapy. It gives you the knowledge, skills, and experience you need to succeed in a DPT program and become a licensed PT.

And let’s not forget the incredible job outlook and the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives.

If you’re passionate about movement, health, and helping others, physical therapy might be the perfect career for you.

Don’t miss out on this career hack!

Start planning your transition from kinesiology to PT today.

Your future self will thank you for it.

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