While neither business courses nor leadership programs are a significant part of a DPT or PTA curriculum, business and leadership skills are important and necessary attributes for any physical therapist or physical therapist assistant, so that the profession can continue to grow and mature.

At first glance, business and leadership may seem like practical skills within the domain of private practice, but this knowledge is applicable regardless of setting.

"Leadership and business knowledge are not skill sets apropos to private business ownership only," says Matthew Mesibov, PT, president of the APTA Health Policy & Administration Section. "These skills will help you succeed in any business, privately or publicly held. They will help you to make smart decisions that lead a winning team and organization." Mesibov is a clinical physical therapy specialist at Centrex Rehab in Minneapolis, and a board-certified specialist in geriatric physical therapy.