Graduate Nursing vs Physical Therapy Technician
Key Points:
- Graduate Nurses focus on patient care and treatment; Physical Therapy Technicians assist Physiotherapists in providing therapy and rehabilitation.
- Graduate Nurses typically earn higher salaries compared to Physical Therapy Technicians.
- The demand for Graduate Nurses is high, while the demand for Physical Therapy Technicians may vary depending on the location.
- Graduate Nurses require a master's degree, while Physical Therapy Technicians usually need a certificate or diploma program.
- Graduate Nursing programs are generally more expensive and take longer to complete than Physical Therapy Technician training.
Are you considering a career in healthcare but unsure which path to take? Two popular options to consider are graduate nursing and physical therapy technician. While both careers offer opportunities to make a difference in the lives of patients, they have distinct differences in terms of job responsibilities, education and training requirements, and career outlook. In this blog post, we will explore the key differences between graduate nursing and physical therapy technician to help you make an informed decision.
Physical Therapy Technician Job Description
Physical therapy technicians work closely with physical therapists to provide rehabilitation and treatment to patients. Their job responsibilities may include:
- Assisting patients with exercises and therapeutic activities.
- Applying modalities such as heat or cold therapy and electrical stimulation.
- Documenting patients' progress and reporting it to the physical therapist.
- Preparing treatment areas and equipment for patient use.
- Instructing patients on proper techniques for exercises and activities.
Graduate Nursing vs Physical Therapy Technician: Education and Training
Graduate Nursing Education and Training
To become a graduate nurse, individuals must first complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and become a licensed registered nurse (RN). After gaining experience as an RN, they can then pursue a master's or doctoral degree in nursing, specializing in their chosen area of practice. The advanced degree program typically takes an additional 2-4 years to complete. After completing their education, graduate nurses must pass a national certification exam to become licensed as an APRN.
Physical Therapy Technician Education and Training
Becoming a physical therapy technician typically requires completing a postsecondary certificate program or an associate degree program in physical therapy assisting. These programs typically take 1-2 years to complete and include both classroom instruction and clinical experience. After completing their education, physical therapy technicians may also need to pass a certification exam, depending on their state's requirements.
Graduate Nursing vs Physical Therapy Technician: Career Outlook and Salary
Career Outlook for Graduate Nursing
The career outlook for graduate nursing is very promising, with a projected growth rate of 45% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This high demand is driven by several factors, including an aging population, increased access to healthcare, and a shortage of primary care providers. The median annual wage for nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives was $117,670 in May 2020, significantly higher than the median wage for all occupations.
Career Outlook for Physical Therapy Technician
The career outlook for physical therapy technicians is also positive, with a projected growth rate of 29% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an aging population and an increasing emphasis on rehabilitation and preventive care. The median annual wage for physical therapy technicians was $48,090 in May 2020, slightly higher than the median wage for all occupations.
Final Thoughts
Both graduate nursing and physical therapy technician offer rewarding careers in the healthcare field. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your interests, career goals, and the level of responsibility and autonomy you desire. If you are interested in providing primary care and taking on a broader scope of practice, graduate nursing may be the right path for you. On the other hand, if you have a passion for helping patients regain physical function and mobility, a career as a physical therapy technician may be a better fit. Ultimately, both careers offer opportunities to make a positive impact on patients' lives and contribute to the healthcare industry.
Dreambound's educational programs are available in diverse locations. Explore these recommended blogs for a comprehensive examination of the two vocations, including in-depth insights into their prerequisites and guidance on initiating your journey:
Jessa Guzon is a member of the School Growth and Customer Success Team in Dreambound. She finds joy in assisting both schools and students in reaching their goals by answering their queries and connecting them with the right people. Outside her professional role, Jessa is a happy-go-lucky person with a thirst for adventure.
