Advanced degree other than DPT for a PTA?

[iamastudent]

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I am currently a PTA with a BS in Exercise Science. I am getting older, and have been accepted to a DPT program, but am having serious second-thoughts due to the enormous amount of student debt I will have when I am finished (I already have ~$50,000, and have been accepted to a private university.) I would like to obtain my DPT to increase my career options and possible progressions. But, I was curious if there were other PTA's that pursued other post-baccalaureate that they had success with, such as MBA or Health Care Administration? I am getting down to the wire, but would like to explore all my options before I accrue that significant amount of debt.

 

[thorn22]

I do not mean to be this frank with you, but if I was in your situation the absolutely LAST thing I would do is seek a DPT degree. I went in to PT school with $0 of debt and left with $145,000 from a public university. I know, I know, "everyone has debt". Except that I am earning $62,500 per year with 3 weeks of PTO being my only benefit. I pay $1300/month in the hopes of having my loans payed off i 25 years. Hopefully then I can start saving for retirement.... 🙂

Don't get me wrong, I love my job as a PT, and it sounds like you love the field as well, but I ask you... will $100k+ more of debt gain you the satisfaction you seek from a career 'advancement'? Would you be better served getting an MBA that is both cheaper and much less limiting in terms of future career options?

Just my 2 cents.

 

[iamastudent]

Thank you for your honesty. I have been struggling with the exact same question. All input is appreciated! I love the career of physical therapy. But realistically and fiscally, I am just not convinced it would be the smartest thing to do.

 

[NewTestament]

Being a PT would be great, but I have to agree with thorn. It's not worth an extra $150 in debt, plus the income you would forfeit for three years. You won't make as much as a PTA, but you already have debt that you need to pay off. Pay off that debt first and then consider going to PT school. Even then, I would finish my career as a PTA.

Kevin