I want to go into physical therapy. Is it best to start off in the nursing program to get some money?

My mom wants me to start off in nursing so I can get some money to help pay off tuition. Is that a good idea?

In my opinion, it's a waste of time. If you complete your BS in nursing first, you'll still have to go back to complete the prerequisite courses that are required prior to PT school. Trying to work and go to school part time, could mean it would take you 2-3 years to complete the prereqs as opposed to an additional 1-2 years. Then you'd be going back to complete the professional phase of the program for PT school. This takes an additional 3 years. Due to the structure of most PT programs, it is nearly impossible to have meaningful employment and go to PT school at the same time. At best, you might be able to pick up 1 or 2 shifts a week...but at the risk of falling behind in school. So, if you did this track, it would take you four years to get the BS in nursing, an additional 2-3 years to complete those prerequsites not covered in the nursing program, and then an additional 3 years to complete your MS or DPT. In all, this process could take you 9 years. Whereas, if you complete your DPT or MS in PT from the bat, you'd be done in 6-7 years tops.

In my opinion, it's not worth it.

Furthermore, I don't think the PTA degree is worth it either. There is no transition between PTA and PT courses...again, you'd have to begin the track all over again. If you have your heart set on PT, go directly for it and don't get distracted.

I would start by becoming a PTA. That way you can start working, make some money, and you'll be doing some of the things that a PT does. It will give you valuable experience in the field so that you will find out if you like the career choice, as well as give you something to put on your resume.

I definately dont think you should start with Nursing first. Like someone previously said, its a waste of time, you would have to go back and take all the prereqs for PT schools.

PTA could be an alternative, but I do not really think it is worth it.

Just go with physical therapy. Some job oppertunites you could look into is being a personal trainer or a physical therapy aide.