Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Careers

Licensing and Employment

To qualify for practice after graduation, students must pass the national physical therapist licensure examination, which is administered via computer in Washington State. Students are eligible to take the exam after their internship assignments are complete. An interim permit is available to cover practice between graduation and license attainment.

Applicants should be aware that licensure and employment may be affected by a history of substance abuse, gross misdemeanor or felony conviction, or other condition that the licensing board determines would seriously affect the applicant's ability to practice physical therapy. For more information on state licensing requirements, contact the Washington Board of Physical Therapy at (360) 236-4837, or visit their website.

In Washington State, physical therapists are covered by independent practice laws. This means that physician referrals for patient treatment are not necessary if the client's condition is of neuromusculoskeletal origin. Physical therapists can choose from a full array of employment options including full or part time work hours, day or weekend shifts, and many different specialized or general practice settings.

To learn more about the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at the University of Washington, please explore the links below:

• Program Description
• Diversity & Equal Opportunity
• Accreditation
• Applying
• Eligibility Requirements
• Selection Process
• Curriculum
• Tuition & Financial Aid
• Faculty Members
• Living in Seattle
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• Contact Information