Online Physical Therapy Degrees of 2025–2026: Your Complete Guide
Are you passionate about helping people regain mobility and improve their quality of life? A degree in physical therapy can lead to a fulfilling and high-paying career. With the flexibility of online education, more students than ever are pursuing online physical therapy degrees in 2025–2026 without interrupting their personal or professional lives.
Whether you’re starting fresh or already working in the healthcare field, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about accredited online physical therapy programs, including degree types, career paths, and what to expect from virtual learning.
Can You Earn a Physical Therapy Degree Online?
Yes, but with some important limitations.
Due to the hands-on nature of physical therapy, fully online Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs are rare. However, many schools now offer hybrid DPT programs, where theoretical coursework is completed online, and clinical lab requirements are fulfilled in-person at partner locations.
Additionally, there are many fully online degrees in physical therapy-related fields, including:
- Pre-Physical Therapy (associate and bachelor’s degrees)
- Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) programs
- Rehabilitation Science
- Kinesiology and Exercise Science
- Health Sciences
Best Online Physical Therapy Degree Options (2025–2026)
| Degree Type | Typical Duration | Online Availability | Career Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate in Physical Therapist Assistant | 2 years | Hybrid/Partial Online | PTA (requires licensure exam) |
| Bachelor’s in Kinesiology or Health Science | 4 years | Fully Online | Prepares for DPT or fitness careers |
| Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | 3 years | Hybrid | Licensed Physical Therapist (PT) |
| Transitional DPT (for licensed PTs) | 1–2 years | Mostly Online | Career advancement for PTs |
| Master’s in Rehabilitation Science | 1–2 years | Fully Online | Non-clinical rehab or management roles |
Top Accredited Schools Offering Online or Hybrid PT Degrees
| School Name | Program Type | Online Format Details |
|---|---|---|
| University of Southern California (USC) | Hybrid DPT | Online coursework + clinical labs |
| Baylor University | Hybrid DPT | Blended model, nationwide access |
| University of Cincinnati | BS in Health Sciences | 100% online |
| Penn Foster | PTA Preparation (non-licensure) | Self-paced, flexible |
| Purdue Global | BS in Health and Wellness | Fully online |
| St. Augustine University for Health Sciences | Transitional DPT | For licensed PTs, online-based |
What You’ll Learn in Online Physical Therapy Degrees
| Course Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Anatomy and Physiology | Foundation for understanding body systems |
| Kinesiology | Study of human movement and function |
| Therapeutic Exercises | Techniques to improve mobility and reduce pain |
| Rehabilitation Techniques | Post-surgery or injury rehab practices |
| Biomechanics | Physics of body motion |
| Patient Assessment and Documentation | Recording and analyzing treatment plans |
Licensure and Certification: What You Need to Know
To practice as a Physical Therapist (PT) or Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), you must:
- Graduate from a CAPTE-accredited program
- Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)
- Obtain state licensure (requirements vary)
For students earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree in related fields, this often serves as preparation for applying to DPT programs.
Career Outlook and Salary (2025–2026)
Physical therapy is one of the fastest-growing healthcare careers in the U.S.
| Job Title | Median Salary (2025 est.) | Job Growth (2024–2034) |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Therapist (PT) | $97,000 – $115,000 | 15% growth (much faster than average) |
| Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) | $55,000 – $72,000 | 19% growth (very strong demand) |
| Rehabilitation Manager | $80,000 – $100,000 | 7% growth |
| Exercise Physiologist | $55,000 – $70,000 | 10% growth |
Pros and Cons of Online PT Programs
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Flexibility to learn from anywhere | Limited hands-on training (in fully online formats) |
| Great for working adults | Lab components often require travel |
| Access to a wide range of schools | DPT programs still require in-person clinicals |
| Often more affordable than in-person | Must be self-motivated and disciplined |
Tips for Choosing the Right Online Physical Therapy Program
- Confirm CAPTE accreditation for any DPT or PTA program
- Check for in-person requirements (labs, clinicals)
- Compare tuition rates and financial aid
- Look for career support services and licensure prep
- Ensure the program meets your state’s licensing rules
Overview: Online Physical Therapy Degrees Of 2025-2026
Earning a physical therapy degree online is now more possible than ever—especially with hybrid and flexible programs designed for today’s students. Whether you’re preparing to become a licensed PT, entering as a PTA, or studying a related field like kinesiology or health sciences, there’s a cost-effective and convenient path waiting for you.
With strong job demand and salaries continuing to rise, 2025–2026 is a great time to start your career in physical therapy.