Professional Outlook

The job outlook for rehab therapy practitioners is strong, especially in the face of the faltering economy. If you're thinking about a career in physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech-language pathology, your investment in education will reward you with job stability in a dynamic career helping others. Click on any of the links below to read detailed job reports.

Physical Therapists

Employment of physical therapists is expected to grow 27 percent from 2006 to 2016, much faster than the average for all occupations. The increasing elderly population will drive growth in the demand for physical therapy services. The elderly population is particularly vulnerable to chronic and debilitating conditions that require therapeutic services.
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Physical Therapist Assistants

Employment of physical therapist assistants is expected to grow by 29 percent over the 2006-16 decade, much faster than the average for all occupations. The increasing number of people who will need therapy reflects, in part, the increasing elderly population. 
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Occupational Therapists

Employment of occupational therapists is expected to increase 23 percent between 2006 and 2016, much faster than the average for all occupations. The baby-boom generation’s movement into middle age, a period when the incidence of heart attack and stroke increases, will spur demand for therapeutic services. Growth in the population 75 years and older will increase demand for therapeutic services.
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Occupational Therapy Assistants

Employment of occupational therapist assistants is expected to grow 25 percent from 2006 to 2016, much faster than the average for all occupations. The growing elderly population is particularly vulnerable to chronic and debilitating conditions that require therapeutic services. These patients often need additional assistance in their treatment, making the roles of assistants vital.
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Speech-Language Pathologists

Employment of speech-language pathologists is expected to grow 11 percent from 2006 to 2016, about as fast as the average for all occupations. As the members of the baby boom generation continue to age, the possibility of neurological disorders and associated speech, language, and swallowing impairments increases.
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Respiratory Therapists

Employment of respiratory therapists is expected to grow by 21 percent from 2008 to 2018, much faster than the average for all occupations. The increasing demand will come from substantial growth in the middle-aged and elderly population—a development that will heighten the incidence of cardiopulmonary disease. 
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