I can't figure out whether I should get a doctorate in Physical Therapy or an MA in Physical Therapy. The pay seems to be the same according to the AAPTA for each. What are the benefits besides a title for getting the doctorate? Can someone help with this? What is the point of getting the doctorate if your pay is going to be the same as someone with the MA or in some cases even the BA? I personally feel it's a bit ludicrous.
2007-02-04 13:06:22 · 3 answers · asked by rotaka 2 in Social Science ➔ Psychology
Whether you get you DPT or MS (not MA), it has no bearing on your ability to become a supervisor or director (unless you have an MBA or other post-entry level degree). The MPT and DPT are both entry level degrees; however, the DPT is designed to make you a practitioner that is more capable of handeling direct access. It is a heavier emphasis in differential diagnosis, physical examination, pharmacology, radiology, etc. However, I will say that some of this is better learned after having a few years of experience underneath your belt. My advice...go for the MPT if it is more financially feasible for you...then get your employer to pay for a transition to the DPT...that's what I did!
2007-02-05 11:07:27 · answer #1 · answered by mistify 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, I was a physical therapy aide for awhile and got to work with those who were physical therapists with DPT's and MA's, actually they are no better then each other, not even with the pay scale.
I believe there are Many many great physical therapy programs and a DPT would take 3 years. Again, not completely different, they get paid the same but perhaps they are a little bit more marketable.
I would go with the MA. Its really a great thing!
2007-02-04 14:02:40 · answer #2 · answered by Rachel T. 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Physical Therapists with doctorates are usually DEAD WEIGHT!!
2007-02-04 13:17:52 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋