How To Become A Physical Therapist In Oklahoma

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So You Wanna Be a PT in Oklahoma: From Sofa Spud to Superhero of Rehab

Ever watched someone trip gloriously, faceplant, then miraculously walk away without a hitch? That, my friend, is the magic of physical therapy. Physical therapists (PTs) are the rehab ninjas who turn ouchies into "oh yeahs" and get folks back to moving like nobody's watching (or at least moving at all).

Think you've got the moves (and the compassion) to join this elite squad in the Sooner State? Let's break down how to become a physical therapist in Oklahoma, with a little less textbook and a lot more "heck yeah!"

How To Become A Physical Therapist In Oklahoma
How To Become A Physical Therapist In Oklahoma

Step 1: Trade Sweatpants for Science

Alright, alright, sweatpants are comfy. But to become a PT, you'll need to swap some Netflix sessions for textbooks. Here's the lowdown on the academic hurdles:

  • Bachelor's Degree: Buckle up for a bachelor's degree, preferably in a science field like biology, kinesiology, or exercise science. Think of it as building your PT foundation – strong bones required!

Pro Tip: While a bachelor's in a specific science field isn't mandatory, some programs favor applicants with a science background. So, choose wisely, grasshopper!

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  • Pre-Requisite Courses: Alongside your core classes, be sure to knock out pre-requisite courses like anatomy, physiology, and physics. These will come in handy when you're explaining to your patients why that weird popping sound is totally normal (or maybe not so normal...).

Step 2: Doctor Up with a DPT

Now comes the main event: the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. This is a doozy of a program, typically lasting three years. Get ready for in-depth studies on the human body, treatment techniques, and the art of the pep talk (because a positive attitude is half the rehab battle!).

Oklahoma Shoutout! Luckily, Oklahoma has some fantastic DPT programs: The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and Langston University both offer accredited programs to get you on your PT path.

Step 3: Pass the PT Exam and Get Licensed

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You've conquered the classroom, but the journey isn't over yet, young Padawan. Time to face the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). This is your chance to prove you've got the knowledge and skills to be a kickass PT.

Once you've aced the NPTE, high five yourself and head over to the Oklahoma Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision to snag your official PT license. Now you can finally hang your diploma and PT license with pride (and maybe a framed picture of your favorite anatomy chart – we won't judge).

Step 4: Suit Up and Save the Day!

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Alright, superhero! You've trained, you've tested, you're officially a licensed PT in Oklahoma. Time to grab your PT cape (optional, but highly recommended) and start helping people get back on their feet (literally!).

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Frequently Asked Questions

Becoming a PT in Oklahoma: FAQs

How to get into a DPT program?

DPT programs are competitive, so strong grades, relevant volunteer experience, and a killer application essay can really help you stand out.

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How long does it take to become a PT?

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Plan on roughly 7 years – 4 years for your bachelor's and 3 years for your DPT.

Are there different PT specialties?

Absolutely! Once you're a licensed PT, you can specialize in areas like pediatrics, sports medicine, or geriatrics.

How much do PTs in Oklahoma make?

According to Indeed, the average PT salary in Oklahoma is around $82,000 per year. Not bad for a superhero, right?

Where can I find more information?

The Oklahoma Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision (https://www.okmedicalboard.org/physical_therapists) is a great resource to get started!

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