How do I become a Physical Therapist within the military? What are the pay and benefits, especially regarding student loans?

2020-02-10T09:58:17-05:00

Hello, I am a currently finishing up my 2nd year of DPT school and am interested in active duty physical therapy within the military. However, it has been very difficult to find accurate and consistent information on how I would go about achieving this and what they pay/benefits are especially when it comes to student loans. Any information would be appreciated.

Response by PO3 Phyllis Maynard made Feb 10 at 2020 10:05 AM

2020-02-10T10:05:55-05:00

Cody Quinlan did you go to a recruiting station to talk with an active duty recruiter? If not start there because they have the first line information. If you feel dissatisfied with the conversation, call that military branch's department. Department of the Navy (Marine Corps is part of the Navy), Department of the Army, Department of the Air Force. Best to you

Response by LTC Kevin B. made Feb 10 at 2020 10:16 AM

2020-02-10T10:16:00-05:00

https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/amedd-categories/medical-specialist-corps-jobs/physical-therapist.html

Physical Therapist

You can enhance your physical therapy career while helping to improve the mobility of our Soldiers.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2020 5:45 PM

2020-02-10T17:45:57-05:00

Contact an AMEDD recruiter to speak with them. Since you are already half way through DPT school I would just finish your program then go full time. You should be able to get some nice student loan repayment or possible sign on bonuses but an AMEDD recruiter would be the person to tell you what the army is offering.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Feb 10 at 2020 8:14 PM

2020-02-10T20:14:35-05:00

I think you need to talk to a medical recruiter.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Feb 10 at 2020 10:11 PM

2020-02-10T22:11:16-05:00

LTC Charles Blake any advice for this person?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2020 6:35 AM

2020-02-11T06:35:29-05:00

You need to talk with an AMEDD recruiter; there are 4 in the states. Look up US Army Baylor Doctoral Program for details on PT positions in the Army.

Look up 2020 basic officer pay to see what an officer is paid. You’ll probably enter service as a 1LT.

There are opportunities for student loan repayment. You’ll incur an active duty service obligation (ADSO) for this and its a great deal. I don’t have current specifics but the AMEDD recruiter will. Be sure to ask.

Good luck!