The DPT is the entry-level degree for physical therapists for which there will be an increased demand as our population ages. The California Employment Development Department estimated that between 2008 and 2018, there will be a need for an additional 4400 physical therapists in the state, which represents a 29% increase. Also, an additional 1,900 DPTs will be needed to replace retirements in the next 10 years.