Reviewed by: Melissa Anderson / First covered: August 2023 / Updates: 1
Key Takeaways:
- Our top two schools are the University of North Texas and Florida International University.
- The article highlights affordable online bachelor’s degree programs in physical therapy suitable for working professionals pursuing healthcare careers.
- Graduates of these programs are well-prepared for roles as physical therapy assistants and have opportunities to advance their education further.
This ranking explores our picks for the top online bachelor’s in physical therapy.
Featured Programs
Physical therapy is one of the most popular of the helping professions in the healthcare sector. Not only is this career path intrinsically rewarding, but it’s also full of lucrative opportunities.
With a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy, graduates are fully prepared for jobs as physical therapy assistants. They can also choose to further their education in a master’s or doctoral program in physical therapy. These graduate programs can put them on the path to take on senior roles in the field, including that of physical therapist.
Distance learning has made this career path even more enticing, especially for working professionals. In this ranking, we highlight ten affordable bachelor’s degree programs in physical therapy that can be completed entirely online.
Types of Degrees Featured in this Ranking
- Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)
- BS in Health Sciences
- BS in Health Science (Pre-Physical Therapy)
- BS in Health Sciences (Allied Health): Physical Therapy
- BS in Health & Rehabilitation Psychology
- BS in Rehabilitation and Recreational Therapy: Rehabilitation Therapy
- Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Studies
Methodology
To develop this ranking of the top physical therapy bachelor’s degrees online, our editors searched the web for available programs, an effort that yielded 16 individual online physical therapy programs in the U.S.
We then applied the tuition filter, eliminating any programs with tuition costs exceeding $25,000 per year. Finally, we applied the site-wide undergraduate program methodology. What follows is our ranking of the top 10 online bachelor’s degrees in physical therapy.
#1—University of North Texas
Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Studies
Points: 8
Tuition: $11,140
For students looking for an online bachelor’s in physical therapy, the University of North Texas offers a BS option in Rehabilitation Studies. This 120-credit hour program is available entirely online and is offered through the school’s College of Health and Public Service. Major requirements for the online degree include:
- Rehabilitation Service Delivery Systems
- Physical & Psychosocial Aspects of Disability
- Assessment in Rehabilitation
- Case Management in Rehabilitation
A one-semester practicum experience is also required before graduation. Three distinct scholarships are earmarked specifically for rehabilitation studies students.
Pros:
- Scholarships available
- More diverse
Cons:
- Larger class sizes
- Limited tech support
#2—Florida International University
Online BS in Rehabilitation and Recreational Therapy: Rehabilitation Therapy
Points: 7
Tuition: $6,565
The Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation and Recreational Therapy program from FIU features a Rehabilitation Therapy track ideal for individuals aspiring toward a graduate degree in physical therapy, such as a master’s degree or online doctor of physical therapy (DPT program). This fully online program features course titles such as:
- Medical Terminology
- Client Assessment & Documentation
- Facilitative Communication and Helping Skills
- Psychopathology
No internship is required. Some students may be eligible for financial aid.
Pros:
- Low tuition
- Higher graduation rate
Cons:
- Larger class sizes
#3—Ohio State University
Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences
Points: 6
Tuition: $12,485
Ohio State University’s online bachelor’s in physical therapy offering is a BS in Health Sciences with an optional minor in Biology. Online courses required for the major include:
- Introduction to Health Sciences Major and Career Opportunities
- Individual Differences in Patient Populations
- Ethical Decision-Making in Healthcare
- U.S. Healthcare Policy and Delivery System
Students with an associate’s degree in the field can complete the online physical therapy program in just two years.
Pros:
- Top national university
- Higher graduation rate
- 24/7 tech support
Cons:
- Less diverse
#4—Northern Arizona University
BS in Health Sciences (Allied Health): Physical Therapy
Points: 5
Tuition: $12,274
The online bachelor’s in physical therapy program from NAU is technically a BS in Health Sciences (Allied Health) with an emphasis on physical therapy. Students must have an associate’s degree for admission with a 2.5 minimum GPA. Courses required for the bachelor’s degree cover topics such as:
- Disease Prevention
- The Healthcare Environment
- Stress Management
- Personal and Societal Health
In addition to coursework, a capstone experience is also required for graduation. Northern Arizona holds its institutional accreditation from The Higher Learning Commission.
Pros:
- More diverse
- 24/7 tech support
- Affordability
Cons:
- Lesser-known physical therapy program
#5—Clarkson College
Bachelor of Science in PTA
Points: 5
Tuition: $14,880
The online bachelor’s in physical therapy program at Clarkson College is an accelerated program that can be completed in just 16 months of distance learning. The program’s curriculum features course titles such as:
- Acute to Chronic Care in Physical Therapy
- Ethics, Empathy, and Advocacy
- Outcome Measures & Reporting for the PTA
- Evidence-Based Practice and Ethics in Physical Therapy
Two on-campus experiences are required in addition to fully online coursework. Clarkson College is accredited to offer this undergraduate program in physical therapy by The Higher Learning Commission.
Pros:
- Accelerated format
- Higher graduation rate
Cons:
- Less diverse
- On-campus component
#6—Florida National University
Online BS in Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)
Points: 4
Tuition: $14,888
The fully online bachelor’s in physical therapy program from Florida National University requires no visits to campus. The program is designed for students who already hold an associate’s degree in the field and want to enhance their career prospects. Prospective students can choose from two available tracks:
- Education
- Business/ Health Service Administration
In addition to concentration-specific classes, all bachelor’s-level students must complete a series of core courses. Florida National University is a military-friendly school and has been offering postsecondary programs since 1982.
Pros:
- Top regional university
- Customizable curriculum
- More diverse
Cons:
- Larger class sizes
#7—Southern New Hampshire University
Online BS in Health Science
Points: 4
Tuition: $15,380
The online bachelor’s in physical therapy program from Southern New Hampshire University is an online BS in Health Science designed for working professionals. Students with an associate’s degree can apply to the program to qualify for various types of physical therapy careers, including physical therapist assistants.
Course requirements include:
- Ethical and Legal Considerations of Healthcare
- Healthcare Finance
- Healthcare Delivery Systems
- Healthcare Quality Management
A health sciences capstone is also required. The New England Commission of Higher Education has fully accredited SNHU to offer this and other online programs.
Pros:
- Smaller class sizes
- Affordability
Cons:
- Less diverse
#8—South College
BS in Health Science (Pre-Physical Therapy)
Points: 3
Tuition: $17,335
Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, South College offers an online bachelor’s in physical therapy program that can be completed entirely via distance education.
The curriculum for the program is designed to prepare students for a doctoral degree program in physical therapy (i.e., Doctor of Physical Therapy). It features course titles such as:
- Health Science Leadership
- Health Economics
- Healthcare Law and Ethics
- Healthcare Administration
Eligible students may be eligible for scholarships and other forms of financial assistance.
Pros:
- Fully online
- Nationally ranked university
- More diverse
Cons:
- Less prestigious university
#9—Faulkner University
Online BS in Health & Rehabilitation Psychology
Points: 3
Tuition: $23,920
The online bachelor’s in physical therapy option from Faulkner University is a unique Bachelor of Science in Health & Rehabilitation Psychology. The 120-credit curriculum for the program features foundational courses grounded in the university’s Christian philosophy.
Additional requirements for physical therapy students include the following:
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Physiological Psychology
- Health and Rehabilitation Psychology
- Introduction to Counseling
A capstone project and internship are also required as culminating elements of the program.
Pros:
- nationally ranked regional university
- Smaller class sizes
Cons:
- Less affordable
- Lower graduation rate
#10—Pima Medical Institute
Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy Assistant
Points: 3
Tuition: $24,475
Pima Medical Institute offers an online bachelor’s in physical therapy option designed to be completed within 16 months. Physical therapy students will complete four semesters of coursework, including classes such as:
- Evidence-Based Practice for the PTA
- Exercise Physiology
- Patient Communication, Motivation, and Learning
- Practice Specific Rehabilitation
A professional capstone is also required. Pima Medical Institute holds the institutional accreditation to award this degree by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Pros:
- Accelerated format
- ABHES-accredited program
Cons:
- Larger class sizes
- Less affordable
About Online Bachelor’s in Physical Therapy Degree Programs
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the field of physical therapy is growing. Jobs for physical therapist assistants and aides will expand by 15% in the coming decade. This growth will result in over 37,000 new jobs for those qualified to work in the field.
In recent years, there has also been an increase in the number of online training programs for students looking to enter this in-demand healthcare sector. Thanks to technological advancements in distance learning, it is possible to earn a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy entirely online.
Access to fully online training programs enables single parents, working professionals, and other non-traditional students to get the necessary credentials. These students can then go on to work as in the role of a physical therapist assistant or earn the foundational knowledge necessary to apply for graduate programs in the field (i.e., master’s degree or doctor of physical therapy).
Bachelor’s in Physical Therapy Degree: Admissions Requirements
Admission requirements for bachelor’s programs in physical therapy will vary depending on the school and program. Still, these requirements are similar for on-campus and online physical therapy programs. Criteria may include:
- An associate degree in health science or related field
- A minimum GPA (e.g., 2.5 or higher)
- High school transcripts
- Completed application and fee
- Standardized test scores (i.e., ACT or SAT)
Since admissions criteria can vary widely depending on the school you’re applying to, it’s best to speak to an admissions counselor or check the school’s website for details.
Physical Therapy Bachelor’s Degrees: Curriculum
Like all bachelor’s degree programs, the curriculum for a BS in Physical Therapy degree will include some general education requirements. If you already hold an associate’s degree, you may be able to transfer these credits and advance to major-specific classes. The core curriculum will consist largely of classes in the health sciences.
Sample course titles may include:
- Clinical Pathology and Pathophysiology
- Evidence-Based Decision Making
- Human Anatomy
- Acute to Chronic Care in Physical Therapy
- Outcome Measures and Reporting for the PTA
- Introduction to Medical Terminology
- The Human Side of Medicine
- Statistics for Health Professionals
- Ethics and Teamwork in Healthcare
- Musculoskeletal Anatomy
- Physiology of Exercise
In addition to coursework, a capstone element is usually required for online physical therapy programs. Depending on the school and program, this could be a hands-on experience such as a practicum or internship, for example.
Alternatively, some schools allow students to complete research projects or scholarly papers. The latter is more common in distance learning programs.
Types of Online Bachelor’s Programs in Physical Therapy
If you’re considering studying physical therapy online, you should be aware of the different types of bachelor’s level programs that are available via distance learning.
Even though most of these programs follow a similar curriculum, they can differ in terms of format and delivery. These differences can affect how you learn, so they are important to note.
Fully Online Versus Hybrid Majors in Physical Therapy
For the purposes of this ranking, our editors focused solely on programs that could be completed entirely online. These are, far and away, the most convenient and flexible options for distance learners. Some hybrid bachelor’s programs do exist in physical therapy, though.
For example, Florida Atlantic University offers a BS in Exercise Science and Health Promotion with a concentration in Pre-Physical Therapy that combines traditional on-campus courses with online learning.
This could be a good option if you want some of the flexibility of distance education but still want or need the engagement and hands-on learning typically associated with in-person instruction.
Asynchronous Versus Synchronous Online Bachelor’s in Physical Therapy Programs
Another factor that could impact the flexibility of your online bachelor’s degree in physical therapy is whether your online courses are delivered synchronously or asynchronously. This may sound like a complicated distinction, but it simply refers to whether course content is live or not.
If lessons are prerecorded and can be accessed at your convenience, this is referred to as an asynchronous format.
Asynchronous online physical therapy programs tend to be more flexible for online learners. Synchronous programs feature elements like live lectures and interactive online discussions via videoconferencing. While not as convenient, this structure does have its benefits.
For example, many online learners report feeling more engaged with content and instructors in a synchronous online learning environment.
Part-Time Versus Full-Time Online Physical Therapy Bachelor’s Programs
Many online programs can be pursued on a part-time or full-time basis. This is true of online bachelor’s in physical therapy options as well. Like other format distinctions, there are pros and cons to both structures.
To choose one over the other, decide if you want to spread courses out over a longer time period (i.e., part-time) or take more courses simultaneously to finish the program quicker (i.e., full-time).
What Does A Physical Therapist Assistant Do?
After graduating from a bachelor’s in physical therapy program, you’ll be well-qualified to work as a physical therapy assistant. Some of the programs in this ranking are specifically designed to prepare online learners for assisting physical therapists.
Physical therapy assistants, sometimes called PTAs for short, work for physical therapists. They help physical therapists (PTs) provide care for patients who have suffered an injury or who are recovering from an illness or medical procedure such as surgery.
This may include teaching the patient certain exercises to improve mobility, using therapeutic interventions such as massage or balance training, for instance, and documenting their progress over the course of treatment. PTAs may also educate patients and their family members about their treatment plans.
Graduate Programs in Physical Therapy
Completing a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy online will also qualify you for admission to a master’s degree or doctoral degree program, such as a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program for aspiring physical therapists. This credential is necessary to practice as a licensed physical therapist in the United States.
To become a licensed physical therapist, you must attend a doctoral program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). The average length of study for a DPT program is three years, but accelerated options may be available for prospective physical therapists.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Bachelor’s in Physical Therapy Degree Options
It’s normal to have questions when considering an educational program such as a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy. Below, our editors address several common questions people have about these physical therapy programs.
When in doubt, contact an admissions counselor at the school you’re interested in attending or check the school’s website for more information.
Q: Is an online bachelor’s in physical therapy the same as an online bachelor’s in kinesiology?
No, but they are similar. A kinesiology bachelor’s program will focus more on exercise techniques to improve a patient’s mobility and functioning. Physical therapy programs will address these but will also include courses related to additional therapies such as massage, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation, for example.
Q: How much does an online bachelor’s in physical therapy cost?
A: As with all programs, tuition costs will vary by school. Still, our researchers uncovered programs ranging from under $4,000 annually to more than $47,000 annually. Financial aid may be available to online students, including scholarship opportunities.
Q: How long does it take to earn a bachelor’s in physical therapy degree online?
A: It depends. Without an associate’s degree, it may take up to four years to complete a bachelor’s credential in physical therapy. If you do have an associate’s degree, you may be able to transfer these credits and earn your bachelor’s degree in two years or less.
Career Questions for Bachelor’s in Physical Therapy Degrees
Whether pursuing jobs as physical therapist aides or, eventually, physical therapists, students who pursue online physical therapy programs may have a variety of questions. Some of these include:
Q: What can I do with a bachelor’s in physical therapy degree?
A: Many people enroll in a bachelor’s in physical therapy program to qualify for jobs as physical therapy assistants. Other possible career paths include physical therapy aide, recreation therapist, occupational therapist, and exercise physiologist, for example.
Q: How much do physical therapist assistants make?
A: The BLS reports the median annual wage for physical therapy assistants to be $62,770.
Q: Are jobs in physical therapy in demand?
A: Yes. Jobs for physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and physical therapist aides are all growing faster than average, according to the BLS.
Q: Can I join professional organizations in physical therapy?
A: Yes. You don’t have to be a physical therapist or even a physical therapist assistant to become members of professional organizations in the physical therapy field. As a student or graduate of a physical therapy bachelor’s degree program, you can join professional associations such as:
- American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
- National Academy of Kinesiology
- American College of Sports Medicine
- American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
Sources
- American Physical Therapy Association
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook
- National Center for Education Statistics: College Navigator
- PayScale.com