Physical therapy is defined as the assessment, evaluation, and treatment and prevention of physical disability, movement dysfunction and pain resulting from injury, disease, disability, or other health related conditions. The objective of the Department of Physical Therapy is to provide a quality education to students who are enrolled in a physical therapy program that requires accumulation of scientific knowledge, acquisitions of essential physical therapy skills and the development of professional attitudes and behaviors. The fulfillment of that mission is exemplified by graduates who are empathetic, skilled, and safe general practitioners of physical therapy and who exhibit an intrinsic motivation for continued learning. The U.S. Department of Labor projects a continuing increase in available jobs for physical therapists. Physical therapists' salaries compare favorably with those in other professions requiring similar preparation.
Salaries vary depending upon one's experience, geographical location and position.
Master's degree programs are generally two to three years in length and may require students to have a baccalaureate degree in an area other than physical therapy. The University of Tennessee Health Science Center has a three year professional program which follows three years of prerequisite coursework. Entry-level programs, both master's and doctoral levels, prepare students as generalists in physical therapy. In order to specialize in a specific area of physical therapy, graduates must continue their professional education. For physical therapists who have completed their basic physical therapy education, post-professional programs are available.