How to Become a Physical Therapist in Nebraska

Physical Therapists and Physical Therapy Assistants in Nebraska are monitored and directed by the Board of Physical Therapy. The board is made up of four members, three who are physical therapists and one who is a public member. These four members are appointed for five-year terms, and cannot serve for more than two consecutive terms. The Nebraska Board of Physical Therapy is an arm of Nebraska’s Department of Health & Human Services.

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Physical Therapy and Physical Therapist Assistant jobs have been on the rise recently in Nebraska, as much as 19% in the last few years. The average salary for Physical Therapists in Nebraska is $74,810 and the average salary for Physical Therapy Assistants is $50,030. In order to enter into the field of Physical Therapy, you must complete the following steps:

Step 1 – Complete Your Degree

Physical Therapists:

The state of Nebraska has five accredited colleges and universities that offer degrees in physical therapy:

Concordia University in Seward
Creighton University
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Northeast Community College
Western Nebraska Community College

Physical Therapy Assistant:

The state of Nebraska has three accredited colleges that offer degrees in physical therapy:

Clarkson College
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health
Northeast Community College

Step 2 – Finish Clinicals

In order to finish your degree in physical therapy or as a physical therapist assistant, you must complete the clinical portion of your education. Clinicals are designed to introduce you to hands on aspects of physical therapy and to allow you to utilize the knowledge you have already gained from earning your degree. Your college or university and your degree dictate the length of your clinical experience.

Step 3 – Pass Examinations

The Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) administers the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). Physical therapists and physical therapy assistants must take this examination. The minimum passing grade for each test is a 600/800. Testing days and registration deadlines are on the FSBPT’s website. The fee for both the PA and the PTA tests is $370.

You must also pass the Nebraska Jurisprudence examination that is administered by the FSBPT. This exam covers the laws and practices that are specific to the state of Nebrasaka. The minimum passing grade for this exam is also 600. The fee for taking this examination is $50.

Step 4 – Apply for Licensure

Physical Therapists:

In order to apply for your physical therapists license, you must fulfill the following requirements:

Submit an application for
licensure

The application fee is $133 EXCEPT in May, June, July, August, September, or October of odd-numbered years when the fee is $33.25

Submit official transcripts from each college and university you attended
You must be at least 19 years old
You must be a citizen of the United States

Physical Therapy Assistant:

Submit an application for licensure

The application fee is $90 EXCEPT in May, June, July, August, September, or October of odd-numbered years when the fee is $25

Submit official transcripts from each college and university you attended
You must be at least 19 years old
You must be a citizen of the United States

Step 5 – Maintain Licensure

Physical therapists’ and Physical therapy assistants’ licenses expire on November 1st of every odd-numbered year. You must complete the following requirements in order to maintain your licensure:

Physical Therapists:

Complete 20 hours of continuing education during the 24 month period
You must also complete the Nebraska Law Tutorial before November 1st of the renewal year

You must score a 100% on this tutorial

The renewal fee is $133

Physical Therapy Assistant:

Complete 10 hours of continuing education during the 24 month validity period
You must complete the Nebraska Law Tutorial before November 1st of the renewal year

You must score a 100% on this tutorial

The renewal fee is $90