What's the value in getting a DPT if one already has a PT degree?

[ocwaveoc]

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I graduated back in 95 with a BS degree. I've been a manager at Kaiser supervising over PT/OT/ST of more than 15 staff members without a MPT or a DPT degree. I'm not downplaying the significance of getting a higher degree. Who wouldn't like to have a higher degree? However, what is the financial and career advantage in getting a DPT? I'm sure theoretically it'd be easier to move up to be a manager with a DPT. But, how real is that? Can someone explain with some specific examples?

 

[DOctorJay]

I think the only advantage would be if there are teaching/research responsibilities involved in the position in question. Otherwise I think a track record of solid real world experience is going to beat out a degree any day in this field. The difference in training just is not that great.

J

 

[bigdan]

what is the financial and career advantage in getting a DPT?

I'm interested in replies on this forum, of course, but also would like to hear examples from the APTA. When's the last we heard of Medicare reimbursement going UP?

dc

 

[ONstudentPT]

I graduated back in 95 with a BS degree. I've been a manager at Kaiser supervising over PT/OT/ST of more than 15 staff members without a MPT or a DPT degree. I'm not downplaying the significance of getting a higher degree. Who wouldn't like to have a higher degree? However, what is the financial and career advantage in getting a DPT? I'm sure theoretically it'd be easier to move up to be a manager with a DPT. But, how real is that? Can someone explain with some specific examples?

Correct me if I am wrong but perhaps moving to a DPT is a move by the APTA to put the profession on more of an even playing field with chiros in the out-patient private practice setting.

 

[ocwaveoc]

You are probably right.
Chiros get referred as "doctor". I'm wondering why say, PharmDs and DPT grads don't get referred as "doctors"?

 

[PT2MD]

If you talk to PT faculty, you may be suprised. The DPT credential is a clinical vs academic doctorate. If you are interested in teaching - you may want to consider a terminal doctorate such as a Ph.D. or Ed.D or D.Sc.. The DPT, at least right now, has very little value. A few years from now, I think DPT will be the standard and may offer more advantages.

One program to consider is the D.Sc. offered by Texas Tech, particularly if you are interested in orthopedics. I plan to apply to this program next year if med school doesn't pan out. It is a terminal doctorate allowing an easier path into academics should you choose. At the same time, the course load is heavily clinical.

I thought about working toward my DPT, but other than the title the DPT offers very little to enhance my career at the present time.