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Masters In Physiotherapy in the USA

Get comprehensive guidance from experts and turn your dream of pursuing a Masters In Physiotherapy in the USA for Indian Students into a Reality.

Last updated27th Jan 2025
8 mins read
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Anshul Mishra
Published by Anshul Mishra

USA Study Abroad Expert | Head of Client Relations (USA)

Graduates with a Master's in Physiotherapy USA are equipped with specialised skills in sports medicine, orthopaedic rehabilitation, and neurological treatment approaches. The USA's advanced medical education system, state-of-the-art facilities, and comprehensive training programs provide international students with a transformative academic and professional experience.

Best Physiotherapy Programs in the USA

US physiotherapy programs offer specialised training in clinical, orthopaedic, neurological, sports, and geriatric rehabilitation. DPT in the USA provides international students with rehabilitation science education and research opportunities.

Physiotherapy programs in the United States offer diverse specialisations and comprehensive training across various healthcare domains:

Course Specialisation

What does it offer?

Clinical Physiotherapy

  • Evidence-based practice
  • Complex patient management
  • Sports injury rehabilitation
  • Advanced rehabilitation techniques

Orthopedic Physiotherapy

  • Musculoskeletal assessment
  • Advanced manual therapy
  • Joint mobilisation techniques
  • Ergonomic interventions

Neurological Rehabilitation

  • Stroke recovery protocols
  • Spinal cord injury management
  • Pediatric neurological interventions
  • Assistive technology implementation

Sports and Performance Physiotherapy

  • Athletic injury prevention
  • Performance optimisation
  • Biomechanical analysis
  • Professional athlete rehabilitation

Geriatric Physiotherapy

  • Age-related mobility management
  • Fall prevention strategies
  • Chronic condition rehabilitation
  • Elderly care specialisation

Top Universities for Physiotherapy in the USA

Student life in the USA provides a multicultural environment for learning and professional development. Here are a few Universities that offer degree courses and programs in Physiotherapy. Also, Degree accreditation ensures the international recognition of physiotherapy qualifications.

Saint Louis University

The university provides comprehensive undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, emphasising intellectual development, ethical leadership, and community engagement through a holistic educational approach. Saint Louis University offers strong medical and healthcare programs, including nursing, pharmacy, and medical research.

QS World Ranking 2025

951

Type

Private research university

Acceptance Rate

58%

Student/faculty ratio

12:1

Location

St. Louis, Missouri

Average Tuition fees in USA & INR

USD: 48,000/year

INR: 40,00,000/year

Popular programs

Medicine, Law, Business, Nursing, Physical Therapy

University of Delaware

The University of Delaware focuses on interdisciplinary learning, research innovation, and preparing students for global challenges through rigorous academic programs and extensive research opportunities. It also has comprehensive undergraduate and graduate degrees with strong research opportunities in technology and sustainability.

QS World Ranking 2025

506

Type

Public research university

Acceptance Rate

71%

Student/faculty ratio

15:1

Location

Newark, Delaware

Average Tuition fees in USA & INR

USD: 36,000/year

INR: 30,00,000/year

Popular programs

Engineering, Business, Environmental Science, Chemistry, Education, Orthopaedic

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville focuses on nursing, business, and engineering programs. The university provides education and pharmacy degrees with a practical, career-oriented curriculum designed for immediate professional application.

QS World Ranking 2025

359

Type

Public university

Acceptance Rate

90%

Student/faculty ratio

17:1

Location

Edwardsville, Illinois

Average Tuition fees in USA & INR

USD: 24,000/year (out-of-state)

INR: 20,00,000/year

Popular programs

Nursing, Business, Engineering, Education, Pharmacy

Northeastern University

Located in Boston, Massachusetts, and renowned for computer science, data science, and innovative technology programs. It offers strong business and health sciences degrees with mandatory real-world work experience through co-op programs.

QS World Ranking 2025

396

Type

Private research university

Acceptance Rate

20%

Student/faculty ratio

14:1

Location

Boston, Massachusetts

Average Tuition fees in USA & INR

USD: 57,000/year

INR: 47,50,000/year

Popular programs

Computer Science, Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, Data Science

The University of Alabama at Birmingham

The University of Alabama at Birmingham leader in medical and health-related programs, including advanced nursing, public health, and biomedical sciences. It provides cutting-edge research opportunities in healthcare and engineering disciplines.

QS World Ranking 2025

901-950

Type

Public research university

Acceptance Rate

81%

Student/faculty ratio

20:1

Location

Birmingham, Alabama

Average Tuition fees in USA & INR

USD: 30,000/year

INR: 25,00,000/year

Popular programs

Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, Biomedical Sciences, Engineering

Long Island University

The Institution offers specialised programs in pharmacy, health sciences, and psychology. Provides comprehensive business and communication degrees with a focus on practical skills and professional readiness.

QS World Ranking 2025

Non ranked

Type

Private university

Acceptance Rate

85%

Student/faculty ratio

12:1

Location

Brooklyn and Post campuses, New York

Average Tuition fees in USA & INR

USD: 41,000/year

INR: 34,00,000/year

Popular programs

Pharmacy, Health Sciences, Business, Psychology, Communications

Eligibility Requirements for Master's in Physiotherapy

Here is the list of eligibility requirements to enroll in physiotherapy programs USA:

Academic Requirement

US physiotherapy master's programs typically require a bachelor's degree in health sciences, biology, or related fields. Competitive programs often seek candidates with strong academic backgrounds, research experience, and relevant healthcare exposure.

Requirement

Details

Undergraduate Degree

Bachelor's in Physiotherapy, Biology, or related health sciences

Minimum Grade

60% aggregate or equivalent GPA (2.5-3.0 on a 4-point scale)

Prerequisites

Strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics

English Language Proficiency Requirements

International students must demonstrate English proficiency through standardised tests like TOEFL or IELTS. Some universities may conduct additional English language assessments during the admission process.

Test Type

Minimum Score Required

IELTS

Overall 6.5 (no band less than 6.0)

TOEFL iBT

Overall 88 (minimum 22 in each section)

PTE

Overall 65 (no band less than 58)

Comprehensive Admission Process

Admission involves submitting academic transcripts, standardised test scores, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and professional experience documentation and the Visa application process. Some universities require GRE scores and may consider volunteer or clinical work.

Pre-Application Phase

  • Research partner universities offering Masters in Physiotherapy
  • Review specific program requirements
  • Prepare required documents
  • Take English proficiency tests

Documentation Requirements

  • Completed application form
  • Official academic transcripts
  • Undergraduate degree certificate
  • English proficiency test scores
  • Updated resume/CV
  • Statement of purpose
  • Two academic/professional references
  • Valid passport copy
  • Academic credential evaluation (if the degree is from outside the USA)

Application Submission Steps

  • Select preferred universities
  • Complete online application
  • Pay application fee
  • Submit all supporting documents
  • Await university review

Post-Application Process

  • Application review
  • Possible interview
  • Receive admission offer
  • Accept the offer and pay the deposit
  • Apply for a student visa

A USA education visa is crucial for international students studying physiotherapy at American universities.

Additional Considerations

Some universities may require:

  • GRE scores
  • Clinical experience
  • Research proposal
  • Portfolio of relevant work

Important Deadlines

Fall Intake

December-February (previous year)

Spring Intake

August-October

Cost and Financial Aid Options for Physiotherapy Programs in the USA

Pursuing a physiotherapy Master's degree in the US involves substantial financial investment. The cost of a physiotherapy degree varies across institutions, with public and private universities offering different tuition structures.

Expense Category

Cost in USD

Cost in INR (Approx.)

Tuition Fees

$50,000 - $65,000

INR 41,50,000 - 54,00,000

Accommodation

$12,000 - $18,000

INR 10,00,000 - 15,00,000

Health Insurance

$1,500 - $2,500

INR 1,25,000 - 2,00,000

Food

$4,000 - $6,000

INR 3,30,000 - 5,00,000

Transportation

$1,500 - $2,500

INR 1,25,000 - 2,00,000

Study Materials

$1,000 - $2,000

INR 83,000 - 1,66,000

Personal Expenses

$2,000 - $3,000

INR 1,66,000 - 2,50,000

Total Estimated Annual Cost: USD 72,000 - 96,500 (INR 60,00,000 - 80,00,000)

Scholarship Opportunities

Multiple scholarship options exist for physiotherapy students, including merit-based awards, need-based financial aid, and field-specific grants. International student scholarships support talented global candidates in pursuing physiotherapy education.

Scholarship Name

Award Amount

Eligibility

Merit-Based Scholarships

Up to USD 10,000

Academic excellence

International Student Grants

Up to USD 15,000

First-year international students

Research Excellence Awards

Up to USD 20,000

Research proposal required

A Masters in Physiotherapy USA typically requires a four-semester curriculum, combining theoretical knowledge with extensive practical training in human movement and therapeutic interventions.

Job Opportunities in the USA After Completing Masters in Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy job prospects in the USA remain highly promising, with increasing demand in healthcare sectors. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a strong growth rate of 17% for physical therapists between 2021-2031, significantly faster than the average for all occupations.

Graduates can specialise in areas like sports medicine, orthopaedics, neurology, paediatrics, and geriatric care. Also, Post-study options for physiotherapy graduates include potential pathways to permanent residency.

Position

Average Annual Salary (USD)

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Physiotherapist

70,000 - 85,000

  • Patient rehabilitation
  • Treatment planning
  • Progress monitoring

Sports Physiotherapist

75,000 - 90,000

  • Athletic injury management
  • Performance enhancement
  • Preventive care strategies

Neurological Rehabilitation Specialist

80,000 - 95,000

  • Neurological condition treatment
  • Patient recovery protocols
  • Assistive technology implementation

Pediatric Physiotherapist

65,000 - 80,000

  • Child developmental assessment
  • Therapeutic interventions
  • Family Counselling

Work permits physiotherapy enable international graduates to gain professional experience after completing their studies which includes clinical internships. These Internships provide essential practical training for students in physiotherapy programs.

Takeaway

A Master's in Physiotherapy from the USA provides Indian students with unparalleled educational and professional opportunities. Indian physiotherapy students find extensive opportunities for advanced learning and global exposure in the USA. The comprehensive curriculum, advanced clinical training, and global recognition make it an excellent investment in your healthcare career.

Unlock your dream of studying master's in Physiotherapy in the USA with AECC! Get expert guidance on universities, scholarships, and visas tailored for Indian students—start your journey today!

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Anshul Mishra
Published by Anshul Mishra

USA Study Abroad Expert | Head of Client Relations (USA)

With over 11 years of experience in the study abroad field, Anshul Mishra is an expert at helping students get into universities in the USA. He is passionate about guiding students through the application process to help them reach their school and career goals.

Anshul has held important leadership jobs at well-known education companies like AECC and Jamboree Education Private Limited. As a "National Head - Admissions Sales" and "Business Head", he led teams that helped many students find their path to studying in another country.

Today, in his role as Head of Client Relations (USA), Anshul has the most current, real-world knowledge about the American education system. His experience managing teams and advising students in major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Vizag, Bengaluru, Chennai and Kochi means he understands the questions and hopes of students from all over the country.

What Anshul Brings to You

  • Real Experience: He has worked for over a decade in student admissions and counselling.
  • Leadership You Can Trust: Anshul has a proven history of leading successful teams that help students.
  • Business Knowledge: He even started his own company, which shows he knows how to build things from the ground up.

Anshul Can Help You With

  • Choosing the Right University: Navigate the thousands of US university options to find the perfect fit for your specific career goals and budget.
  • Making Your Application Stand Out: Build a powerful student profile that highlights your unique strengths, helping you impress admissions officers in a crowded field of applicants.
  • Simplifying Complex Applications: Get clear, step-by-step guidance on the entire US application process, from writing powerful essays to correctly filling out and submitting forms.
  • Understanding the Admissions Strategy: Learn what US universities are really looking for in a candidate, giving you an insider's advantage in your application journey

Anshul has a Bachelor's degree from the University of Rajasthan. When you read an article by Anshul, you get simple, direct advice from an experienced leader who truly enjoys helping students succeed.

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