Top Physiotherapy Universities in USA: Ranking, Requirements, Jobs
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Top Physiotherapy Universities in USA: Ranking, Requirements, Jobs

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Aishwarya
Aishwarya Bhatnagar
Study Abroad Expert
Updated on Jul 28, 2023 22:53 IST

Physiotherapy in the USA is referred to as Kinesiology or Physical Therapy, thus, these terms are used interchangeably. Masters in Physiotherapy in the USA are offered across 10+ US universities and are commonly referred to as MSPT. There is an option for applicants to choose BSPT+DPT (Doctor of Physical Therapy) as a dual degree option which includes MSPT.  

top physiotherapy universities in usa

The majority of US universities offering a master's in Physiotherapy require applicants to complete a certain level of physical training hours and hold a bachelor’s degree along with GRE scores. Admissions to MSPT courses in the USA are applicable to international students as well.  

Best Universities for Masters in Physiotherapy in USA 

Some of the top universities in the US offering an MS in Physiotherapy are as follows with their corresponding US News Rankings for Physical Therapy subject for 2023: 

Best Universities for Masters in Physiotherapy in USA 

US News Ranking for Physical Therapy Subject 2023 

Courses Offered 

University of Delaware 

#1 

MS in Physical Therapy 

University of Pittsburgh 

#2 

Masters in Physical Therapy (MSPT)  

Northwestern University 

#4 

Dual BS-MS in Physical Therapy 

Elon University 

#49 

 
 

MS in Physical Assistant Studies 

Duquesne University 

#83 

MSPT + DPT 

George Mason University 

n/a 

MS in Kinesiology 

How to Study Masters in Physiotherapy in USA? 

In order to study Masters's in Physiotherapy in the USA, applicants should first chalk out the universities they wish to apply for and consequently check out the admission requirements.  

Admission Requirements for MS in Physiotherapy in USA 

In order to get admission to the Physical therapy program at the master’s level in USA, applicants will have to fulfil the following entry requirements: 

  • Transcripts or mark sheets of bachelor’s degree 
  • Should have studied subjects like Biology and Kinesiology at the bachelor’s level. 
  • One must also complete around 20-24 hours of physical training or PT in order to show experience.  
  • Applicants will also have to submit a statement of purpose if applying for MPT in USA. 
  • The number of letters of recommendation may vary per US university for a Master in Physical Therapy.  
  • Also, the applicants may be required to submit GRE scores for admission. 
  • Applicants will also have to submit English language proficiency scores like IELTS, TOEFL or PTE
  • Apart from this, some universities may require a resume for work experience proof as well. 

There may be additional requirements, which will depend upon the university in question. Thus, international applicants must check all details before applying for the course.  

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US Industries Hiring Physical Therapists  

The following data shows the different areas where MS in Physical Therapists are hired along with their hourly and annual average salaries, plus the current positions open across these industries in the USA: 








Physical Therapists Employed Across US’s States

Total Employed 

Hourly Average Salary 

Annual Avg Salary 

Offices of Other Health Practitioners 

85,480 

USD 43.91 

USD 91,320 

General Medical and Surgical Hospitals 

55,850 

USD 48.15 

USD 100,140 

Home Health Care Services 

25,420 

USD 54.79 

USD 113,970 

Offices of Physicians 

14,670 

USD 44.64 

USD 92,850 

Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities) 

10,670 

USD 49.80 

USD 103,590 

Goes without saying, that Health Institutions hire the highest number of Physical therapists followed by general medical and surgical hospitals. A handsome number of physiotherapists are hired specifically for those who require these services at home rather than in a hospital as well, plus they have the advantage to draw the highest annual salary and highest hourly average pay too.  







Top Paying Jobs State-Wise for Physical Therapists in USA 

Apart from the US industries, there are 5 US states where hospitals and healthcare are in demand and hence the number of jobs are high but the salaries are not as high. Check out the table below for more details: 

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Explore MS colleges in USA

Arizona State University

Tempe, USAPublic

111 courses
₹ 18.19 L - 54.08 L
Northeastern University

Boston, USAPrivate

70 courses
₹ 18.62 L - 52.5 L
Texas A & M University

College Station, USAPublic

89 courses
₹ 12.99 L - 49.98 L
Stanford University

Stanford, USAPrivate

37 courses
₹ 30.59 L - 1.24 Cr
40 courses
₹ 22.42 L - 71.81 L
55 courses
₹ 13.59 L - 56.3 L
46 courses
₹ 15.26 L - 53.54 L
38 courses
₹ 36.38 L - 79.04 L
New York University

New York, USAPrivate

77 courses
₹ 27.49 L - 82.34 L
University of Washington

Seattle, USAPublic

75 courses
₹ 20.03 L - 63.79 L
Is this recommendation relevant?

US States 

Employment Opportunities for Physiotherapists 

Annual Avg Salary for Physical Therapists 

Delaware 

980 jobs 

USD 96,460 

New Hampshire 

1,560 jobs 

USD 91,230 

Vermont 

720 jobs 

USD 88,310 

Maine 

1,460 jobs  

USD 86,600 

Montana 

1,190 jobs 

USD 85,530 

As given above, those practising as physiotherapists in Delaware have the second lowest job openings but the highest annual average salary. On the other hand, Montana has the highest number of vacancies but the annual average pay in comparison to other states is the lowest here.  

Thus, we can though see an inverse relationship yet, there is one thing for sure, physiotherapists are required at large in the USA. So, those who wish to pursue this MS in Physical Therapy will have a good number of options to choose from and select their package and where they wish to finally settle.  

Still, have more queries? Comment in the section below. If you need help in choosing the right college, sign up for free Shiksha Abroad Counselling.  

Q:   What GPA is required for the University of South Dakota?

A:

The University of South Dakota expects a GPA score of 2.5 from undergraduates and 3 from postgraduates on the 4-pointer scale. Along with the GPA scores, undergraduates must meet the basic eligibility and submit an ACT score of 21 or higher and an SAT score of 1070 or higher. In addition, they must submit the required documents, such as academic history, transcripts, letters of recommendation, English language scores, and more.

Q:   What GPA is needed to go to Ohio State?

A:

There is no minimum GPA score for UG admission at Ohio State. However, International students must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale or equivalent) for graduate admission. Applicants may submit a standardized test score (GRE or GMAT) if their cumulative GPA is below 3.0 for the last degree.

Q:   Is it hard to get into the UTSA in San Antonio Texas?

A:

According to various sources, University of Texas San Antonio has an overall acceptance rate of around 87% which makes it somewhat selective for international student admissions. Some of the general requirements to be considered for admission are given as follows:

Q:   Is University of North Dakota good for Indian students?

A:

The University of North Dakota is one of the top choices for international students to pursue their higher education. The UND warmly welcomes its international students as they have contributed a lot to the success of the university. Moreover, the university offers a top-notch environment, the best academic opportunities, technical & career training, etc. The university boasts over 1000 international students who represent more than 95 countries. Additionally, international students highly enjoy the facilities provided by the University of North Dakota. The UND is one of the largest research universities in the United States for international students.

Q:   How much is the application fee for Alabama University?

A:

The Alabama University application fee for International students vary by application type. Mentioned below are the application fee for UG and PG applications at Alabama:

  • UG: USD 40 or INR 3,342.14
  • MBA: USD 80 or INR 6,684.28

Q:   Can I get into Oregon State with a 3.5 GPA?

A:

International students must have at least a GPA between 2.5 and 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 for UG and PG admission at Oregon State. Therefore, candidates are eligible to get admission to the university with a 3.5 GPA in their academics. Oregon State University GPA requirements are different for undergraduate and graduate admission. Mentioned below is the range of GPA required for Oregon State University admissions:

ProgramMinimum GPA Required (on a scale of 4.0)
Undergraduate2.5 - 3.0
Graduate2.5 - 3.0

Read about the Grading System in the USA

Q:   What is Northwest Missouri acceptance rate?

A:

The Northwest Missouri acceptance rate for international students is around 80%. This shows that the university follows a moderate selection criteria when it comes to admission. However, the moderate selection criteria does not imply that the university accepts every application. International students must showcase their excellent academic performance, score high GPA, submit standardized test scores and English language proficiency test scores. In addition, if a student has a history of participation in relevant extracurricular or experience, their selection probability increases by 50%.

Q:   What GPA do I need to get into Northwest Missouri state?

A:

Northwest Missouri State University expects a cumulative GPA of 2 for UG programs and 3 for PG programs on a scale of 4. GPA is one of the top factors when considering students for university admissions. Along with GPA, the university expects a student to provide high school transcripts from previously attended university or school, standardized test scores, English language proficiency test scores, and more. In addition, students with relevant experience in the chosen field are preferred over the studious students.

About the Author
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Written by
Aishwarya Bhatnagar
Study Abroad Expert

Aishwarya is a professional Writer currently working as a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. She has over 5 years of experience and is skilled at creating Online Content with leveraged knowledge i... Read Full Bio

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Reviewed by
Nidhi
MS in USA

With 6 years of sound experience in abroad education industry, Nidhi has helped more than 250+ students to get the admission in their dream universities in USA, Canada and Australia. Before moving to the full time c... Read Full Bio

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