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Physical Therapy Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Physical Therapy Instructor information

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$53.5K

$109K

$152K

How much do physical therapy instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for physical therapy instructor in the United States is $109,028.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $138,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a physical therapy instructor?

Physical Therapy Instructors are professionals who teach and train students or practicing therapists in the field of physical therapy. They typically work at universities, colleges, or specialized training programs, providing both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical guidance. Their responsibilities include developing curricula, mentoring students, and staying updated on the latest practices and research in physical therapy. These instructors play a crucial role in preparing future physical therapists to deliver effective, evidence-based care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a physical therapy instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physical Therapy Instructor, you need advanced knowledge of physical therapy principles, a graduate degree (often DPT or higher), and relevant teaching or clinical experience. Familiarity with learning management systems, teaching technologies, and up-to-date licensure or certifications such as PT or DPT are typically required. Excellent communication, mentorship, and organizational skills distinguish outstanding instructors, fostering positive learning environments. These competencies ensure effective knowledge transfer, student engagement, and the development of future skilled physical therapists.

What are some common challenges faced by physical therapy instructors in balancing teaching and clinical responsibilities?

Physical Therapy Instructors often juggle teaching courses, mentoring students, and maintaining their own clinical practice or research. This balancing act can be challenging, as staying current with clinical advancements while ensuring high-quality instruction and student engagement requires strong organizational skills. Instructors may need to coordinate with colleagues for shared teaching loads, manage time effectively to fulfill both academic and clinical commitments, and continually seek professional development opportunities. Effective communication and collaboration with other faculty members and clinical partners are key to managing these responsibilities successfully.

What is the difference between Physical Therapy Instructor vs Physical Therapist?

AspectPhysical Therapy InstructorPhysical Therapist
CredentialsTypically requires a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and teaching certificationRequires a DPT degree and state licensure
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, universities, collegesClinics, hospitals, outpatient facilities, private practices
Primary FocusTeaching, curriculum development, student supervisionPatient assessment, treatment planning, rehabilitation
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, academic settingsHealthcare facilities, private practices, hospitals

While both roles require a DPT degree and licensure, a Physical Therapy Instructor primarily focuses on teaching and training students in academic settings, whereas a Physical Therapist provides direct patient care in clinical environments.

More about Physical Therapy Instructor jobs

What cities are hiring for Physical Therapy Instructor jobs?

Cities with the most Physical Therapy Instructor job openings:

What states have the most Physical Therapy Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Physical Therapy Instructor jobs include:

Infographic showing various Physical Therapy Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,028 per year, or $52.4 per hour.

Instructor for Entry-Level Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

University of the Incarnate Word

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Serve as a small group facilitator/tutor in the Physical Therapy Reasoning course series and occasionally assist in the Patient-Client Management course series.

  • Guide students in course material to develop and deepen their clinical reasoning skills.

  • Participate in faculty meetings, ensure standard curriculum outcomes are met, and maintain timely communication and record-keeping related to student activities.


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Position Title
Instructor for Entry-Level Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
Academic Year
2026-2027
UIW Mission
University of the Incarnate Word is a Catholic institution that welcomes to its community persons of diverse backgrounds, in the belief that their respectful interaction advances the discovery of truth, mutual understanding, self-realization, and the common good.
Position Summary
The School of Rehabilitation Sciences invites part-time faculty candidates for Instructor for Entry-Level Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. This position will serve as a small group facilitator/tutor in the Physical Therapy Reasoning course series [~6 hours per week]. On a rare occasion, the person could serve as a teaching assistant in the Patient-Client Management course series. In all matters, faculty are expected to maintain the highest standards of professional ethics consistent with the UIW Mission. Official duties and responsibilities of part-time faculty members at the University include teaching with service and professional activities as assigned.
This applicant pool will remain online and be used to hire interested part-time faculty as needed during the academic year.
Benefits
This position is not benefits eligible.
Essential Functions
  • Meet with faculty before class and participate in the Comprehensive Practical Exam at the end of the semester, as needed.
  • Guide students in course material set by the instructor of record with the purpose of developing and deepening the student's clinical reasoning.
  • Work collaboratively with departmental faculty to ensure standard curriculum outcomes are met.
  • Occasionally, be available outside of class to help students learn as well as answer their questions.
  • Adhere to UIW Faculty Handbook policies and processes including timely record keeping of student activities, fair and equitable evaluation of student performance, and timely feedback to students regarding their performance in the course.
  • Conduct respectful relationships with faculty, staff, and students both in and outside the classroom.
  • Maintain contact with the department chair and participate in meetings upon request.
  • Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Knowledge Skills and Abilities
  • Strong knowledge of legislative, regulatory, legal, and practice issues affecting physical therapy education and practice.
  • Effective instructional delivery.
  • Strong communication skills, verbal, written, and interpersonal.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Strong problem-solving skills.
  • Proficiency in the use of instructional technology.
  • Ability to actively engage students in the learning process.
  • Ability to conduct respectful relationships with students both in and outside the classroom.
  • Ability to work collegially and productively within the university community.
  • Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse communities and cultures.
  • Employee shall adhere to all applicable rules and regulations of the University, the Conference, and the NCAA.

Required Education
  • Graduate of an accredited physical therapy program.
  • Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.

Required Work Experience
  • Five (5) years experience as a licensed physical therapist, OR
  • Two (2) years if a graduate of a problem-based learning program, OR
  • Two (2) years if a graduate of a residency.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Board-certified clinical specialization.
  • Prior clinical instructor experience.
  • Active in clinical practice.
  • Teaching experience in a physical therapy academic program.
  • Active in professional activities at local, state, and/or national levels.

Required Certifications, Licenses or Registrations
  • Licensed to practice Physical Therapy.
  • Member of the American Physical Therapy Association.

Work Hours
Based on course assignment. Most needs are 6 hours a week (2 mornings a week).
Physical Demands
N/A