Is a Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree Worth It? If you’re dreaming about helping patients restore their mobility and quality of life, and you’re exploring what it would take to become a physical therapist, you may be wondering, “Is a degree in physical therapy worth it?” The answer to this question depends, of course, on your personal career goals. Some people choose to become physical therapist assistants because only a two-year associate degree is required. It’s true that pursuing a doctorate takes time and effort; however, there are countless advantages to earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. To that end, let’s look at some of the factors that make a Doctor in Physical Therapy (DPT) degree the best first step on an exceptional career Read more
Kayla Smith received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biopsychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 1990, Master of Science in Physical Therapy degree from Boston University in 1993, and her Doctorate of Science in Physical Therapy degree from Andrews University in 2008.
Kayla completed her manual therapy certification through the North American Institute on Manual Therapy in 2004. She completed her certification in manipulative therapy in 2005, and later that year obtained board certification from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties in orthopaedics. Kayla is a member of the APTA, AAOMPT, and COMPTSIG.
Dr. Smith has worked as an orthopaedic physical therapist in the San Diego area for the past 25 years. She is a full-time Associate Professor at the University of St. Augustine, San Marcos campus instructing orthopaedic musculoskeletal courses.
