Physical Therapist Assistants
Assist physical therapists in providing physical therapy treatments and procedures. May, in accordance with state laws, assist in the development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, document the progress of treatment, and modify specific treatments in accordance with patient status and within the scope of treatment plans established by a physical therapist. Generally requires formal training.
How to read this profile
BLS projects U.S. employment for Physical Therapist Assistants to increase by 23.0% between 2024 and 2034, from 114,100 to 140,400 jobs. Its estimate of 18,500 annual openings includes replacement needs, so it does not represent current vacancies, contract postings, or freelance demand. The wage ($68,380), education (Associate's degree), and related experience (None) figures on this profile describe typical U.S. employees. O*NET skills describe the occupation; they do not assess an individual worker's proficiency.
Base employment (2024)
114,100
Projected employment (2034)
140,400
Projected change (2024–2034)
23%
Annual openings (projected average)
18,500
Pay & Preparation
$68,380
Associate's degree
None
None
Essential Skills
Active Listening (4/5) • Speaking (3.75/5) • Monitoring (3.75/5) • Social Perceptiveness (3.75/5) • Reading Comprehension (3.25/5) • Active Learning (3.25/5)
O*NET describes occupational requirements; these ratings do not measure current job-posting frequency or an individual worker’s proficiency.
BLS projections are long-term estimates; annual openings include growth and replacement needs and are not current vacancies.
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