Do School Physical Therapists Need a Traditional Resume?

Do School Physical Therapists Need a Traditional Resume?

February 3, 2023

When it comes time to apply for a new physical therapy job, there are many considerations to make. Where do you want to work, what hours work with your family’s schedule, how much vacation time do you need, what benefits are crucial for your health and wellness? But before you can even apply to a new school PT position, the one thing you need to get in order is your resume.

Do School Physical Therapists Need a Traditional Resume?

In short, yes, a PT still needs a professional resume when applying for a job – whether or not the job is in a school environment. However, with the physical therapy field having different requirements and experience than other careers, your resume should include several different sections than most “standard” resume formats.

What Does a School Physical Therapist Need on Their Resume?

  1. Education
    Most schools and businesses will expect you to have an education section on your resume, so they know you have completed the higher learning requirements of the position. While it isn’t necessary to list your GPA, it is a good practice to include any colleges or universities you attended, the degree you received, and the year(s) you attended.

  2. Physical Therapy Experience
    If you have had a job in physical therapy (whether it has been in a school, hospital, clinic or elsewhere) this is the most important part of your resume. Make sure to list the job title, the company name, the year(s) you worked in that role, and what your major roles and accomplishments were.More important than just listing duties, you should make any skill-building outcomes the focus of this sections (i.e.Advocated for patients” or “negotiated with insurance companies to address patient equipment needs.”)
  3. Relevant Experience and Clinical Education
    If you have completed any clinical education or trainings, or if you have had unpaid experience in a physical therapy setting, this should be mentioned on your resume. It is a great way to stand out from other applicants who may not have the same level of credentials or experience.
  4. Research Experience
    If you have conducted any research or been involved in any PT-specific research or reviews, this is a great opportunity to add relevant content to your resume. Make sure you list the title of the research/paper and let the reader know whether it has been published or is in review.

Ready to Apply for a New School Physical Therapy Job?

Spotter Staffing is hiring for school PTs in Illinois and Texas right now! If you’re looking for a job with great benefits, CEUs, higher pay, and a team of experts to support you every step of your career, we can help. Click here to find available physical therapy jobs online.