PTA Program Information

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is an important member of the physical therapy health care team. The PTA works under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist to implement a treatment plan and perform other techniques. PTA’s work closely with patients, the patients’ families, and other health care providers.

The degree plan for Physical Therapist Assistant is a two-year (five semester) course of study that includes supervised classroom and clinical experiences designed to prepare the graduate for eligibility to take the state licensure examination in order to practice as a Physical Therapist Assistant. Upon completion of the program, the student is awarded an Associate of Applied Science degree. The PTA degree is not a transitional degree to becoming a licensed Physical Therapist. Prospective students need to be aware that becoming a PTA does not enhance the student's likelihood of being accepted into a Bachelor/Master physical therapist degree program. It is recommended that students complete as many of the general education courses as possible prior to application to the PTA program. These courses may be taken at any time, in any sequence (as recommended by the student's academic advisor). The PTA program requires a serious commitment of time and effort

The PTA program accepts students after a rigorous admissions process to pursue five sequential semesters, full time, of didactic learning, laboratory and clinical training. Admission to the PTA program requires the successful completion of a selection process.