Programs Certification Guides Career Guides
MTSPhysical Therapist Assistant & Aide
- Laboratory Technology
- Patient-Facing Technology
- Cytologist (Cytotechnologist)
- Dental Lab Technician
- Histotechnologist
- Medical Lab Assistant
- Medical Lab Technician
- Medical Laboratory Scientist
- Biological Sciences
- Biomedical Science
- Biotechnology
- Health Sciences
- Infection Preventionist
- Pathologists' Assistant (PathA)
- Pre-Vet (Veterinarian)
- Biomedical Equipment Technician
- Biomedical Informatics
- Health Informatics
- Health Information Management
- Health Information Technology
- Healthcare Administration
- Nursing Informatics
- Sterile Processing Technician
- Cardiovascular Technologist
- Dental Assistant
- Dental Hygienist
- Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
- Dialysis Technician
- EKG Technician
- Kinesiologist
- Mammography Technologist
- Medical Assistant
- MRI Technologist
- Neurodiagnostic Technologist
- Nuclear Medicine Technologist
- Ophthalmic Technician
- Pharmacy Technician
- Phlebotomist
- Radiation Therapist
- Radiologic Technologist
- Rehabilitation Technician
- Respiratory Therapist
- Surgical Technologist
Medical Technology Programs
Certification Guides Career Guides- Laboratory Technology
- Cytologist (Cytotechnologist)
- Dental Lab Technician
- Histotechnologist
- Medical Lab Assistant
- Medical Lab Technician
- Medical Laboratory Scientist
- Natural & Clinical Science
- Biological Sciences
- Biomedical Science
- Biotechnology
- Health Sciences
- Infection Preventionist
- Pathologists' Assistant (PathA)
- Pre-Vet (Veterinarian)
- Medical IT & Administrative
- Biomedical Equipment Technician
- Biomedical Informatics
- Health Informatics
- Health Information Management
- Health Information Technology
- Healthcare Administration
- Nursing Informatics
- Sterile Processing Technician
- Patient-Facing Technology
- Cardiovascular Technologist
- Dental Assistant
- Dental Hygienist
- Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
- Dialysis Technician
- EKG Technician
- Kinesiologist
- Mammography Technologist
- Medical Assistant
- MRI Technologist
- Neurodiagnostic Technologist
- Nuclear Medicine Technologist
- Ophthalmic Technician
- Pharmacy Technician
- Phlebotomist
- Radiation Therapist
- Radiologic Technologist
- Rehabilitation Technician
- Respiratory Therapist
- Surgical Technologist
By Rachel Drummond, MEd , Bree Nicolello
By Rachel Drummond, MEd , Bree Nicolello Reviewed By Jocelyn Blore
Updated September 5, 2024Editorial Values
Search For Schools
sponsored
×
When you click on a sponsoring school or program advertised on our site, or fill out a form to request information from a sponsoring school, we may earn a commission. View our advertising disclosure for more details.
“Something people may not know about being a PTA is the emotional aspect of the job. Yes, it is physical therapy, but as therapist, we often build strong relationships with our patients and are a part of their recovery process.”
Kendra Covele, PTA Associate Degree Program Graduate, Ivy Tech
As uncomfortable as physical therapy can be for post-operative patients, the occupational independence they gain from it is well worth the effort. Physical therapy treats injuries, disorders, and other issues using non-surgical methods, such as massage, heat treatment, exercises, assistive equipment (such as walkers), and more. Accordingly, PTAs and PT aides may work with patients of all ages and abilities. Some of their patients may recover from work-related or sports injuries, while others may have a neurological disorder that impacts movement.
PTAs and PT aides typically work in an office, clinic, hospital, skilled nursing facility, or home health setting. Depending on the setting, some PTAs and PT aides may work in an environment specializing in certain patient groups, such as children or athletes. Those interested in this field should demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, as they commonly interact one-on-one with patients, as well as compassion and attention to detail. Many PTAs and PT aides are on their feet for most of the day, so they should have dexterity and physical stamina.
PTAs and PT aides perform different functions to ensure quality care is provided to patients. PTAs have more education and licensing requirements than physical therapist aides. Working under a physical therapist’s supervision and direction, PTAs provide treatment, rehabilitation, and preventive care to people of all ages.
They work closely with patients, monitoring and reporting their status and progress to the physical therapist throughout their treatment. Care and treatment options may include exercises, hands-on therapy, and assistive equipment. Recovery plans range from short- to long-term care depending on the injury or illness.
All PTAs must obtain a high school diploma or GED and complete an associate’s degree from a PTA program accredited through the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Coursework typically includes clinical pathology, biology, anatomy, physiology, and ethics and 15-30 weeks of supervised clinical education to obtain hands-on experience.
Alternatively, PT aides perform indirect patient care by performing clerical duties, setting and cleaning up treatment areas, and moving patients. They gain experience through on-the-job training and are not required to get licensed or certified. PT aides typically have a high school diploma or GED. Working as a PT aide can be a stepping stone toward becoming a physical therapist or PTA.
Read on to discover how to become a PTA, including education and licensure requirements, or pursue a career as a PT aide.
Fast Facts | Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) | Physical Therapy Aide (PT Aide) |
---|---|---|
Projected Jobs Created | 26,300 | 1,300 |
Projected Job Growth: 2022 to 2032 | 26% | 3% |
Low Salary: 10th Percentile | $42,110 | $23,070 |
Average Salary (Median) | $64,080 | $33,520 |
High Salary: 90th Percentile | $88,830 | $43,980 |
Entry-Level EDU | Associate’s Degree | High School Diploma/GED |
Sources BLS (2024) |
Meet the Expert: Kendra Covele, PTA
Kendra Covele has always had a passion for sports, growing up playing both basketball and volleyball in high school. Her athletic background sparked her interest in physical therapy, leading her to pursue a career in this field. She earned her associate’s degree as a physical therapist assistant (PTA) from Ivy Tech in May 2022.
While at Ivy Tech, Covele gained valuable hands-on experience working as a tech for ProRehab in New Albany. This role allowed her to apply her academic knowledge in a practical setting and solidified her dedication to the profession. Her positive experience at ProRehab inspired her to return to the company after completing her PTA program.
MedicalTechnologySchools.com: What is something most people don’t know about being a physical therapy assistant?
Covele: Something people may not know about being a PTA is the emotional aspect of the job. Yes, it is physical therapy, but as therapists, we often build strong relationships with our patients and are a part of their recovery process. Whether it is supporting a patient with an acute or chronic condition, we oftentimes are witnessing firsthand their struggles and successes. Being able to provide encouragement, listen to a patient’s frustration or uncertainty with rehab along with performing our own clinical duties is an often overlooked part of the job.
MedicalTechnologySchools.com: What is one piece of advice you would give to an aspiring physical therapy assistant?
Covele: One piece of advice I would give to an aspiring PTA or rehab tech would be to shadow or seek as many opportunities as you can to learn from other experienced therapists. It will give you a clearer understanding of the day-to-day life and will also help you see different approaches, rehab techniques, and how therapists work as team. It can help build relationships and open doors for future opportunities, just like it did with me!
Meet the Expert: Greg McCallay, PTA
Greg McCallay brings over 37 years of experience in patient care, primarily in the outpatient setting, to his work as a PTA. He graduated from the HCCS Eastwood Center physical therapist assistant program. He obtained level 1 certification in selective functional movement assessment and functional movement screening and level 2 certification in FMS. His skills are very diverse, specializing in throwing and running sports, athletic injuries, manual therapy, and spine care.
MedicalTechnologySchools: What is something most people don’t know about being a physical therapy assistant?
McCallay: Being a physical therapist assistant (PTA) can be a very rewarding experience. As a PTA, you work under the supervision of a PT to assist in recovery from a wide variety of injuries and surgical interventions. You may also be involved in the care of individuals with neurological conditions. Your clientele may range from newborns to centenarians.
Regardless of the condition, it can be very stressful on the individuals, their families and sometimes even employers. Our role in their lives should reflect that of a tour guide directing them on the path that would lead them to the greatest possible outcomes and, at other times, could resemble that of a cheerleader.
MedicalTechnologySchools: What is one piece of advice you would give to an aspiring physical therapy assistant?
McCallay: Stay passionate about learning and bringing positive energy to your work with clients. You should always be lifting up those individuals and families. I consider it a blessing to be able to make a positive impact in their lives.
List of Physical Therapist Assistant & Aide Schools
Filter by state :
School | City | State | Website | GRADS ('21) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale | Fort Lauderdale | Florida | https://www.keiseruniversity.edu | 178 |
Pima Medical Institute-Tucson | Tucson | Arizona | https://pmi.edu | 79 |
The Pennsylvania State University | University Park | Pennsylvania | https://www.psu.edu | 79 |
Broward College | Fort Lauderdale | Florida | https://www.broward.edu | 77 |
Fox College | Tinley Park | Illinois | https://www.foxcollege.edu | 60 |
Concorde Career College-Garden Grove | Garden Grove | California | https://www.concorde.edu/campus/garden-grove-california | 56 |
American Career College-Anaheim | Anaheim | California | https://americancareercollege.edu | 53 |
Ivy Tech Community College | Indianapolis | Indiana | https://www.ivytech.edu | 53 |
Southern California Health Institute | North Hollywood | California | https://www.sochi.edu | 53 |
Central Penn College | Summerdale | Pennsylvania | https://www.centralpenn.edu | 51 |
South College | Knoxville | Tennessee | https://www.south.edu | 51 |
CBD College | Los Angeles | California | https://www.cbd.edu | 50 |
ECPI University | Virginia Beach | Virginia | https://www.ecpi.edu | 50 |
Miami Dade College | Miami | Florida | https://www.mdc.edu | 50 |
Green River College | Auburn | Washington | https://www.greenriver.edu | 49 |
The College of Health Care Professions-San Antonio | San Antonio | Texas | https://www.chcp.edu | 49 |
Nassau Community College | Garden City | New York | https://www.ncc.edu | 48 |
Pima Medical Institute-Las Vegas | Las Vegas | Nevada | https://pmi.edu | 48 |
Kellogg Community College | Battle Creek | Michigan | https://kellogg.edu | 47 |
Baker College | Owosso | Michigan | https://www.baker.edu | 46 |
The College of Health Care Professions-McAllen Campus | McAllen | Texas | https://www.chcp.edu | 46 |
Florida State College at Jacksonville | Jacksonville | Florida | https://www.fscj.edu | 45 |
Pima Medical Institute-Mesa | Mesa | Arizona | https://pmi.edu | 45 |
Whatcom Community College | Bellingham | Washington | https://www.whatcom.edu | 45 |
Loma Linda University | Loma Linda | California | https://llu.edu | 44 |
Macomb Community College | Warren | Michigan | https://www.macomb.edu | 44 |
Pima Medical Institute-Denver | Denver | Colorado | https://pmi.edu | 44 |
Arkansas State University | Jonesboro | Arkansas | https://www.astate.edu | 41 |
Saint Louis Community College | Bridgeton | Missouri | https://stlcc.edu | 41 |
Pima Medical Institute-Seattle | Seattle | Washington | https://pmi.edu | 40 |
St Petersburg College | St. Petersburg | Florida | https://www.spcollege.edu | 40 |
Tidewater Community College | Norfolk | Virginia | https://www.tcc.edu | 40 |
CUNY LaGuardia Community College | Long Island City | New York | https://www.laguardia.edu | 39 |
Kent State University at Ashtabula | Ashtabula | Ohio | https://www.kent.edu/ashtabula | 39 |
University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne | Fort Wayne | Indiana | https://www.sf.edu | 39 |
Jefferson Community and Technical College | Louisville | Kentucky | https://jefferson.kctcs.edu | 38 |
Universal Healthcare Careers College | Los Angeles | California | https://uhcc.edu | 38 |
Greenville Technical College | Greenville | South Carolina | https://www.gvltec.edu | 37 |
Mott Community College | Flint | Michigan | https://www.mcc.edu | 36 |
South University-Montgomery | Montgomery | Alabama | https://www.southuniversity.edu | 36 |
Suffolk County Community College | Selden | New York | https://www.sunysuffolk.edu | 36 |
Institute of Technology | Clovis | California | https://www.iot.edu | 35 |
Pima Medical Institute-Albuquerque | Albuquerque | New Mexico | https://pmi.edu | 35 |
University of Puerto Rico at Ponce | Ponce | Puerto Rico | https://www.uprp.edu | 35 |
Northern Virginia Community College | Annandale | Virginia | https://www.nvcc.edu | 34 |
Fayetteville Technical Community College | Fayetteville | North Carolina | https://www.faytechcc.edu | 33 |
Illinois Central College | East Peoria | Illinois | https://icc.edu | 33 |
South University-Tampa | Tampa | Florida | https://www.southuniversity.edu/tampa | 33 |
Lake Superior College | Duluth | Minnesota | https://www.lsc.edu | 32 |
Lone Star College System | The Woodlands | Texas | https://www.lonestar.edu | 32 |
Herzing University-Orlando | Winter Park | Florida | https://www.herzing.edu | 31 |
Lehigh Carbon Community College | Schnecksville | Pennsylvania | https://www.lccc.edu | 31 |
New England Institute of Technology | East Greenwich | Rhode Island | https://www.neit.edu | 31 |
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College | Green Bay | Wisconsin | https://www.nwtc.edu | 31 |
Daytona State College | Daytona Beach | Florida | https://www.daytonastate.edu | 30 |
Morton College | Cicero | Illinois | https://www.morton.edu | 30 |
Professional Skills Institute | Maumee | Ohio | https://proskills.edu | 29 |
Carl Albert State College | Poteau | Oklahoma | https://carlalbert.edu | 28 |
Harcum College | Bryn Mawr | Pennsylvania | https://www.harcum.edu | 28 |
Pima Medical Institute-Houston | Houston | Texas | https://pmi.edu | 28 |
St Philip's College | San Antonio | Texas | https://www.alamo.edu/spc | 28 |
SUNY Broome Community College | Binghamton | New York | https://www.sunybroome.edu | 28 |
Austin Community College District | Austin | Texas | https://www.austincc.edu | 27 |
Concorde Career College-San Antonio | San Antonio | Texas | https://www.concorde.edu/campus/san-antonio-texas | 27 |
Essex County College | Newark | New Jersey | https://www.essex.edu | 27 |
Union County College | Cranford | New Jersey | https://www.ucc.edu | 27 |
University of Indianapolis | Indianapolis | Indiana | https://uindy.edu | 27 |
Villa Maria College | Buffalo | New York | https://www.villa.edu | 27 |
Community College of Allegheny County | Pittsburgh | Pennsylvania | https://www.ccac.edu | 26 |
GateWay Community College | Phoenix | Arizona | https://www.gatewaycc.edu | 26 |
George C Wallace State Community College-Hanceville | Hanceville | Alabama | https://www.wallacestate.edu | 26 |
Hawkeye Community College | Waterloo | Iowa | https://www.hawkeyecollege.edu | 26 |
Hutchinson Community College | Hutchinson | Kansas | https://www.hutchcc.edu | 26 |
Kent State University at East Liverpool | East Liverpool | Ohio | https://www.kent.edu/columbiana | 26 |
San Diego Mesa College | San Diego | California | https://www.sdmesa.edu | 26 |
Southwestern Oklahoma State University | Weatherford | Oklahoma | https://www.swosu.edu | 26 |
Stark State College | North Canton | Ohio | https://www.starkstate.edu | 26 |
Tulsa Community College | Tulsa | Oklahoma | https://www.tulsacc.edu | 26 |
Anoka-Ramsey Community College | Coon Rapids | Minnesota | https://www.anokaramsey.edu | 25 |
Bay State College | Boston | Massachusetts | https://www.baystate.edu | 25 |
Concorde Career College-Memphis | Memphis | Tennessee | https://www.concorde.edu/campus/memphis-tennessee | 25 |
Delaware Technical Community College-Terry | Dover | Delaware | https://www.dtcc.edu | 25 |
Elgin Community College | Elgin | Illinois | https://www.elgin.edu | 25 |
Lane Community College | Eugene | Oregon | https://www.lanecc.edu | 25 |
Naugatuck Valley Community College | Waterbury | Connecticut | https://nv.edu | 25 |
State Technical College of Missouri | Linn | Missouri | https://statetechmo.edu | 25 |
Carrington College-Las Vegas | Las Vegas | Nevada | https://carrington.edu | 24 |
Concorde Career College-North Hollywood | North Hollywood | California | https://www.concorde.edu/campus/north-hollywood-california | 24 |
Delgado Community College | New Orleans | Louisiana | https://www.dcc.edu | 24 |
George C Wallace Community College-Dothan | Dothan | Alabama | https://www.wallace.edu | 24 |
Guilford Technical Community College | Jamestown | North Carolina | https://www.gtcc.edu | 24 |
Hodges University | Fort Myers | Florida | https://www.hodges.edu | 24 |
Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City | Kansas City | Missouri | https://www.mcckc.edu | 24 |
Rasmussen University-Florida | Ocala | Florida | https://www.rasmussen.edu | 24 |
South University-West Palm Beach | Royal Palm Beach | Florida | https://www.southuniversity.edu/west-palm-beach | 24 |
St Catherine University | Saint Paul | Minnesota | https://www.stkate.edu | 24 |
University of Puerto Rico-Humacao | Humacao | Puerto Rico | https://www.uprh.edu | 24 |
Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University | Baton Rouge | Louisiana | https://franu.edu | 23 |
Kansas City Kansas Community College | Kansas City | Kansas | https://www.kckcc.edu | 23 |
Provo College | Provo | Utah | https://www.provocollege.edu | 23 |
Salt Lake Community College | Salt Lake City | Utah | https://www.slcc.edu | 23 |
Southwestern Illinois College | Belleville | Illinois | https://www.swic.edu | 23 |
Anne Arundel Community College | Arnold | Maryland | https://www.aacc.edu | 22 |
Blinn College | Brenham | Texas | https://www.blinn.edu | 22 |
College of the Sequoias | Visalia | California | https://www.cos.edu/en-us | 22 |
Concorde Career College-San Diego | San Diego | California | https://www.concorde.edu/campus/san-diego-california | 22 |
Idaho State University | Pocatello | Idaho | https://www.isu.edu | 22 |
Lackawanna College | Scranton | Pennsylvania | https://www.lackawanna.edu | 22 |
Oklahoma City Community College | Oklahoma City | Oklahoma | https://www.occc.edu | 22 |
Owens Community College | Perrysburg | Ohio | https://www.owens.edu | 22 |
Riverside College of Health Careers | Newport News | Virginia | https://www.riverside.edu | 22 |
Seminole State College of Florida | Sanford | Florida | https://www.seminolestate.edu | 22 |
State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota | Bradenton | Florida | https://www.scf.edu | 22 |
Baltimore City Community College | Baltimore | Maryland | https://www.bccc.edu | 21 |
Black Hawk College | Moline | Illinois | https://www.bhc.edu | 21 |
California University of Pennsylvania | California | Pennsylvania | https://www.calu.edu | 21 |
Chattanooga State Community College | Chattanooga | Tennessee | https://www.chattanoogastate.edu | 21 |
City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College | Chicago | Illinois | https://www.ccc.edu/colleges/malcolm-x | 21 |
Horry-Georgetown Technical College | Conway | South Carolina | https://www.hgtc.edu | 21 |
Mid-America Technology Center | Wayne | Oklahoma | https://www.matech.edu | 21 |
Mount Aloysius College | Cresson | Pennsylvania | https://www.mtaloy.edu | 21 |
Pearl River Community College | Poplarville | Mississippi | https://prcc.edu | 21 |
Radford University | Radford | Virginia | https://www.radford.edu | 21 |
South University-Austin | Round Rock | Texas | https://www.southuniversity.edu/austin | 21 |
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale | Carbondale | Illinois | https://siu.edu | 21 |
Community College of Rhode Island | Warwick | Rhode Island | https://www.ccri.edu | 20 |
Del Mar College | Corpus Christi | Texas | https://www.delmar.edu | 20 |
John C Calhoun State Community College | Tanner | Alabama | https://calhoun.edu | 20 |
Kirkwood Community College | Cedar Rapids | Iowa | https://www.kirkwood.edu | 20 |
North Central State College | Mansfield | Ohio | https://ncstatecollege.edu | 20 |
Ozarks Technical Community College | Springfield | Missouri | https://www.otc.edu | 20 |
Polk State College | Winter Haven | Florida | https://www.polk.edu | 20 |
Rasmussen University-Minnesota | St. Cloud | Minnesota | https://www.rasmussen.edu | 20 |
Sacramento City College | Sacramento | California | https://scc.losrios.edu | 20 |
San Jacinto Community College | Pasadena | Texas | https://www.sanjac.edu | 20 |
Southwest Tennessee Community College | Memphis | Tennessee | https://www.southwest.tn.edu | 20 |
Carrington College-Mesa | Mesa | Arizona | https://carrington.edu | 19 |
Carrington College-Pleasant Hill Campus | Pleasant Hill | California | https://carrington.edu | 19 |
Concorde Career College-Dallas | Dallas | Texas | https://www.concorde.edu/campus/dallas-texas | 19 |
Genesee Community College | Batavia | New York | https://www.genesee.edu | 19 |
Lake Area Technical College | Watertown | South Dakota | https://www.lakeareatech.edu | 19 |
Nash Community College | Rocky Mount | North Carolina | https://nashcc.edu | 19 |
North Shore Community College | Danvers | Massachusetts | https://www.northshore.edu | 19 |
Pennsylvania Institute of Technology | Media | Pennsylvania | https://www.pit.edu | 19 |
River Valley Community College | Claremont | New Hampshire | https://www.rivervalley.edu | 19 |
South University-Columbia | Columbia | South Carolina | https://www.southuniversity.edu/columbia | 19 |
Walters State Community College | Morristown | Tennessee | https://www.ws.edu | 19 |
Washburn University | Topeka | Kansas | https://www.washburn.edu | 19 |
Weatherford College | Weatherford | Texas | https://www.wc.edu | 19 |
William Rainey Harper College | Palatine | Illinois | https://www.harpercollege.edu | 19 |
Brookline College-Phoenix | Phoenix | Arizona | https://www.brooklinecollege.edu | 18 |
Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute | Hudson | North Carolina | https://www.cccti.edu | 18 |
Carroll Community College | Westminster | Maryland | https://www.carrollcc.edu | 18 |
Central Piedmont Community College | Charlotte | North Carolina | https://www.cpcc.edu | 18 |
Herkimer County Community College | Herkimer | New York | https://www.herkimer.edu | 18 |
Hinds Community College | Raymond | Mississippi | https://www.hindscc.edu | 18 |
Jefferson College | Hillsboro | Missouri | https://www.jeffco.edu | 18 |
Mount Wachusett Community College | Gardner | Massachusetts | https://mwcc.edu | 18 |
Oakton Community College | Des Plaines | Illinois | https://www.oakton.edu | 18 |
Ohlone College | Fremont | California | https://www.ohlone.edu | 18 |
Olympic College | Bremerton | Washington | https://www.olympic.edu | 18 |
Shawnee State University | Portsmouth | Ohio | https://www.shawnee.edu | 18 |
South University-Savannah | Savannah | Georgia | https://www.southuniversity.edu/savannah | 18 |
Southeast Community College Area | Lincoln | Nebraska | https://www.southeast.edu | 18 |
University of Cincinnati-Clermont College | Batavia | Ohio | https://www.ucclermont.edu | 18 |
Volunteer State Community College | Gallatin | Tennessee | https://www.volstate.edu | 18 |
Washtenaw Community College | Ann Arbor | Michigan | https://www.wccnet.edu | 18 |
Arkansas Tech University | Russellville | Arkansas | https://www.atu.edu | 17 |
Bishop State Community College | Mobile | Alabama | https://www.bishop.edu | 17 |
Casa Loma College-Van Nuys | Van Nuys | California | https://casalomacollege.edu | 17 |
Cecil College | North East | Maryland | https://www.cecil.edu | 17 |
Colby Community College | Colby | Kansas | https://www.colbycc.edu | 17 |
College of DuPage | Glen Ellyn | Illinois | https://www.cod.edu | 17 |
Gulf Coast State College | Panama City | Florida | https://www.gulfcoast.edu | 17 |
Jackson State Community College | Jackson | Tennessee | https://www.jscc.edu | 17 |
Lanier Technical College | Gainesville | Georgia | https://www.laniertech.edu | 17 |
Mercer County Community College | West Windsor | New Jersey | https://www.mccc.edu | 17 |
Midlands Technical College | West Columbia | South Carolina | https://www.midlandstech.edu | 17 |
Norwalk Community College | Norwalk | Connecticut | https://norwalk.edu | 17 |
SABER College | Miami | Florida | https://sabercollege.edu | 17 |
SUNY College of Technology at Canton | Canton | New York | https://www.canton.edu | 17 |
Albany State University | Albany | Georgia | https://www.asurams.edu | 16 |
Arapahoe Community College | Littleton | Colorado | https://www.arapahoe.edu | 16 |
Blue Ridge Community and Technical College | Martinsburg | West Virginia | https://www.blueridgectc.edu | 16 |
Clark State College | Springfield | Ohio | https://www.clarkstate.edu | 16 |
College of Central Florida | Ocala | Florida | https://www.cf.edu | 16 |
Indian River State College | Fort Pierce | Florida | https://irsc.edu | 16 |
Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce | Mercedita | Puerto Rico | https://www.ponce.inter.edu | 16 |
Laramie County Community College | Cheyenne | Wyoming | https://www.lccc.wy.edu | 16 |
McLennan Community College | Waco | Texas | https://www.mclennan.edu | 16 |
Milwaukee Area Technical College | Milwaukee | Wisconsin | https://www.matc.edu | 16 |
Navarro College | Corsicana | Texas | https://www.navarrocollege.edu | 16 |
Onondaga Community College | Syracuse | New York | https://www.sunyocc.edu | 16 |
Orange County Community College | Middletown | New York | https://sunyorange.edu | 16 |
Sinclair Community College | Dayton | Ohio | https://www.sinclair.edu | 16 |
Somerset Community College | Somerset | Kentucky | https://somerset.kctcs.edu/about | 16 |
South University-Richmond | Glen Allen | Virginia | https://www.southuniversity.edu/richmond | 16 |
Tyler Junior College | Tyler | Texas | https://www.tjc.edu | 16 |
Vincennes University | Vincennes | Indiana | https://www.vinu.edu | 16 |
Western Technical College | El Paso | Texas | https://www.westerntech.edu | 16 |
Wytheville Community College | Wytheville | Virginia | https://www.wcc.vccs.edu | 16 |
Central New Mexico Community College | Albuquerque | New Mexico | https://www.cnm.edu | 15 |
Concorde Career College-Aurora | Aurora | Colorado | https://www.concorde.edu/campus/aurora-colorado | 15 |
Craven Community College | New Bern | North Carolina | https://cravencc.edu | 15 |
CUNY Kingsborough Community College | Brooklyn | New York | https://www.kbcc.cuny.edu | 15 |
Dixie State University | Saint George | Utah | https://utahtech.edu | 15 |
Eastern Florida State College | Cocoa | Florida | https://www.easternflorida.edu | 15 |
Florida Gateway College | Lake City | Florida | https://www.fgc.edu | 15 |
Gateway Technical College | Kenosha | Wisconsin | https://www.gtc.edu | 15 |
Heartland Community College | Normal | Illinois | https://www.heartland.edu | 15 |
Jefferson State Community College | Birmingham | Alabama | https://www.jeffersonstate.edu | 15 |
Kennebec Valley Community College | Fairfield | Maine | https://www.kvcc.me.edu | 15 |
Marion Technical College | Marion | Ohio | https://www.mtc.edu | 15 |
Martin Community College | Williamston | North Carolina | https://www.martincc.edu | 15 |
Missouri Western State University | Saint Joseph | Missouri | https://www.missouriwestern.edu | 15 |
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health | Omaha | Nebraska | https://www.methodistcollege.edu | 15 |
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College | Salisbury | North Carolina | https://www.rccc.edu | 15 |
Spokane Falls Community College | Spokane | Washington | https://sfcc.spokane.edu | 15 |
Wor-Wic Community College | Salisbury | Maryland | https://www.worwic.edu | 15 |
College of Southern Nevada | Las Vegas | Nevada | https://www.csn.edu | 14 |
Concorde Career Institute-Miramar | Miramar | Florida | https://www.concorde.edu/campus/miramar-florida | 14 |
Connors State College | Warner | Oklahoma | https://connorsstate.edu | 14 |
Delta College | University Center | Michigan | https://www.delta.edu | 14 |
Edison State Community College | Piqua | Ohio | https://www.edisonohio.edu | 14 |
Houston Community College | Houston | Texas | https://www.hccs.edu | 14 |
Kapiolani Community College | Honolulu | Hawaii | https://www.kapiolani.hawaii.edu | 14 |
Louisiana Christian University | Pineville | Louisiana | https://lcuniversity.edu | 14 |
McHenry County College | Crystal Lake | Illinois | https://www.mchenry.edu | 14 |
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College | Perkinston | Mississippi | https://mgccc.edu | 14 |
Pensacola State College | Pensacola | Florida | https://www.pensacolastate.edu | 14 |
Pierpont Community and Technical College | Fairmont | West Virginia | https://www.pierpont.edu | 14 |
Pueblo Community College | Pueblo | Colorado | https://pueblocc.edu | 14 |
South Plains College | Levelland | Texas | https://www.southplainscollege.edu | 14 |
South Texas College | McAllen | Texas | https://www.southtexascollege.edu | 14 |
Springfield Technical Community College | Springfield | Massachusetts | https://www.stcc.edu | 14 |
Surry Community College | Dobson | North Carolina | https://surry.edu | 14 |
West Kentucky Community and Technical College | Paducah | Kentucky | https://westkentucky.kctcs.edu | 14 |
Western Technical College | La Crosse | Wisconsin | https://www.westerntc.edu | 14 |
Athens Technical College | Athens | Georgia | https://www.athenstech.edu | 13 |
Butler County Community College | Butler | Pennsylvania | https://www.bc3.edu | 13 |
Cape Girardeau Career and Technology Center | Cape Girardeau | Missouri | https://www.capectc.org | 13 |
Central Georgia Technical College | Warner Robins | Georgia | https://www.centralgatech.edu | 13 |
Chattahoochee Technical College | Marietta | Georgia | https://www.chattahoocheetech.edu | 13 |
Cuyahoga Community College District | Cleveland | Ohio | https://www.tri-c.edu | 13 |
El Paso Community College | El Paso | Texas | https://www.epcc.edu | 13 |
Finlandia University | Hancock | Michigan | https://www.finlandia.edu | 13 |
Herzing University-Brookfield | Brookfield | Wisconsin | https://www.herzing.edu | 13 |
Howard Community College | Columbia | Maryland | https://www.howardcc.edu | 13 |
Labette Community College | Parsons | Kansas | https://www.labette.edu | 13 |
Madison Area Technical College | Madison | Wisconsin | https://madisoncollege.edu | 13 |
Meridian Community College | Meridian | Mississippi | https://www.meridiancc.edu | 13 |
Mineral Area College | Park Hills | Missouri | https://mineralarea.edu | 13 |
Montgomery County Community College | Blue Bell | Pennsylvania | https://www.mc3.edu | 13 |
North Idaho College | Coeur d'Alene | Idaho | https://www.nic.edu | 13 |
North Iowa Area Community College | Mason City | Iowa | https://www.niacc.edu | 13 |
Northeast Community College | Norfolk | Nebraska | https://northeast.edu | 13 |
Northeast Texas Community College | Mount Pleasant | Texas | https://www.ntcc.edu | 13 |
Rowan College of South Jersey Gloucester Campus | Sewell | New Jersey | https://www.rcsj.edu | 13 |
Southwestern Community College | Sylva | North Carolina | https://www.southwesterncc.edu | 13 |
Zane State College | Zanesville | Ohio | https://www.zanestate.edu | 13 |
Allegany College of Maryland | Cumberland | Maryland | https://www.allegany.edu | 12 |
Chippewa Valley Technical College | Eau Claire | Wisconsin | https://www.cvtc.edu | 12 |
College of Western Idaho | Nampa | Idaho | https://cwi.edu | 12 |
Lake Land College | Mattoon | Illinois | https://www.lakelandcollege.edu | 12 |
Lorain County Community College | Elyria | Ohio | https://www.lorainccc.edu | 12 |
Madisonville Community College | Madisonville | Kentucky | https://madisonville.kctcs.edu | 12 |
Mohave Community College | Kingman | Arizona | https://www.mohave.edu | 12 |
NorthWest Arkansas Community College | Bentonville | Arkansas | https://www.nwacc.edu | 12 |
NUC University | Bayamon | Puerto Rico | https://university.nuc.edu | 12 |
Seminole State College | Seminole | Oklahoma | https://www.sscok.edu | 12 |
South Arkansas Community College | El Dorado | Arkansas | https://www.southark.edu | 12 |
University of Alaska Anchorage | Anchorage | Alaska | https://www.uaa.alaska.edu | 12 |
Victoria College | Victoria | Texas | https://www.victoriacollege.edu | 12 |
Western Iowa Tech Community College | Sioux City | Iowa | https://www.witcc.edu | 12 |
Wharton County Junior College | Wharton | Texas | https://www.wcjc.edu | 12 |
California Baptist University | Riverside | California | https://calbaptist.edu | 11 |
Chesapeake College | Wye Mills | Maryland | https://www.chesapeake.edu | 11 |
College of Southern Maryland | La Plata | Maryland | https://www.csmd.edu | 11 |
Concorde Career College-Kansas City | Kansas City | Missouri | https://www.concorde.edu/campus/kansas-city-missouri | 11 |
EDP University of Puerto Rico Inc-San Sebastian | San Sebastian | Puerto Rico | https://edpuniversity.edu | 11 |
EDP University of Puerto Rico-Humacao | Humacao | Puerto Rico | https://edpuniversity.edu | 11 |
Kankakee Community College | Kankakee | Illinois | https://www.kcc.edu | 11 |
Lake Washington Institute of Technology | Kirkland | Washington | https://www.lwtech.edu | 11 |
Niagara County Community College | Sanborn | New York | https://www.niagaracc.suny.edu | 11 |
Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College | Miami | Oklahoma | https://neo.edu | 11 |
Southern Adventist University | Collegedale | Tennessee | https://www.southern.edu | 11 |
Taylor College | Belleview | Florida | https://taylorcollege.edu | 11 |
Blackhawk Technical College | Janesville | Wisconsin | https://www.blackhawk.edu | 10 |
Concorde Career Institute-Jacksonville | Jacksonville | Florida | https://www.concorde.edu/campus/jacksonville-florida | 10 |
EDP University of Puerto Rico Inc-San Juan | San Juan | Puerto Rico | https://edpuniversity.edu | 10 |
EDP University of Puerto Rico-Manati | Manati | Puerto Rico | https://edpuniversity.edu | 10 |
Kilgore College | Kilgore | Texas | https://www.kilgore.edu | 10 |
Montgomery College | Rockville | Maryland | https://www.montgomerycollege.edu | 10 |
Murray State College | Tishomingo | Oklahoma | https://www.mscok.edu | 10 |
Northland Community and Technical College | Thief River Falls | Minnesota | https://www.northlandcollege.edu | 10 |
St Louis College of Health Careers-Fenton | Fenton | Missouri | https://slchc.edu | 10 |
Atlanta Technical College | Atlanta | Georgia | https://atlantatech.edu | 9 |
Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas | De Queen | Arkansas | https://www.cccua.edu | 9 |
Dewey University-Hato Rey | Hato Rey | Puerto Rico | https://dewey.edu | 9 |
Flathead Valley Community College | Kalispell | Montana | https://www.fvcc.edu | 9 |
Great Falls College Montana State University | Great Falls | Montana | https://www.gfcmsu.edu | 9 |
Hocking College | Nelsonville | Ohio | https://www.hocking.edu | 9 |
Itawamba Community College | Fulton | Mississippi | https://www.iccms.edu | 9 |
Johnson College | Scranton | Pennsylvania | https://johnson.edu | 9 |
Laredo College | Laredo | Texas | https://www.laredo.edu | 9 |
Mid Michigan College | Harrison | Michigan | https://www.midmich.edu | 9 |
Berkshire Community College | Pittsfield | Massachusetts | https://www.berkshirecc.edu | 8 |
Bryant & Stratton College-Syracuse North | Liverpool | New York | https://www.bryantstratton.edu | 8 |
Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa | Wauwatosa | Wisconsin | https://www.bryantstratton.edu | 8 |
Central Methodist University-College of Liberal Arts and Sciences | Fayette | Missouri | https://www.centralmethodist.edu | 8 |
College of Southern Idaho | Twin Falls | Idaho | https://www.csi.edu | 8 |
Kaskaskia College | Centralia | Illinois | https://www.kaskaskia.edu | 8 |
Mercy College of Health Sciences | Des Moines | Iowa | https://www.mchs.edu | 8 |
Mountwest Community and Technical College | Huntington | West Virginia | https://www.mctc.edu | 8 |
Odessa College | Odessa | Texas | https://www.odessa.edu | 8 |
Carrington College-Boise | Boise | Idaho | https://carrington.edu | 7 |
Hazard Community and Technical College | Hazard | Kentucky | https://hazard.kctcs.edu | 7 |
Indian Hills Community College | Ottumwa | Iowa | https://www.indianhills.edu | 7 |
Morgan Community College | Fort Morgan | Colorado | https://www.morgancc.edu | 7 |
Quincy College | Quincy | Massachusetts | https://www.quincycollege.edu | 7 |
South University-Virginia Beach | Virginia Beach | Virginia | https://www.southuniversity.edu/virginia-beach | 7 |
Herzing University-Minneapolis | St. Louis Park | Minnesota | https://www.herzing.edu | 6 |
Mercyhurst University | Erie | Pennsylvania | https://www.mercyhurst.edu | 6 |
Northeast Technology Center | Pryor | Oklahoma | https://www.netech.edu | 6 |
Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College | Orangeburg | South Carolina | https://www.octech.edu | 6 |
Terra State Community College | Fremont | Ohio | https://www.terra.edu | 6 |
Bryant & Stratton College-Buffalo | Buffalo | New York | https://www.bryantstratton.edu | 5 |
Remington College-Cleveland Campus | Cleveland | Ohio | https://www.remingtoncollege.edu/locations/cleveland | 5 |
East Los Angeles College | Monterey Park | California | https://www.elac.edu | 4 |
Florida National University-Main Campus | Hialeah | Florida | https://www.fnu.edu | 4 |
University of Pittsburgh-Titusville | Titusville | Pennsylvania | https://www.titusville.pitt.edu | 4 |
Clovis Community College | Clovis | New Mexico | https://www.clovis.edu | 3 |
High Plains Technology Center | Woodward | Oklahoma | https://www.hptc.edu | 3 |
Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College | Cumberland | Kentucky | https://southeast.kctcs.edu | 3 |
Three Rivers College | Poplar Bluff | Missouri | https://trcc.edu | 3 |
Columbus State Community College | Columbus | Ohio | https://www.cscc.edu | 2 |
Eastern Arizona College | Thatcher | Arizona | https://www.eac.edu | 2 |
University of Evansville | Evansville | Indiana | https://www.evansville.edu | 2 |
Huertas College | Caguas | Puerto Rico | https://huertas.edu/hc | 1 |
Northwestern University | Evanston | Illinois | https://www.northwestern.edu | 1 |
Tarrant County College District | Fort Worth | Texas | https://www.tccd.edu | 1 |
University of Maine at Presque Isle | Presque Isle | Maine | https://www.umpi.edu | 1 |
'20-'21 School Data from IPEDS (Sourced in September, 2023)
Degree & Certification Programs in Physical Therapy Assistance
It takes an average of several months to become a PT aide for those who already have a high school diploma or GED. This includes the time to apply for jobs and receive any on-the-job training. There are no licensing or certification requirements. Depending on age and prior education, those without a high school diploma or GED may take up to four years to complete their diploma or pass their GED examinations.
MedCerts
Penn Foster
Online Career Diploma - Physical Therapy Aide
sponsored
×
When you click on a sponsoring school or program advertised on our site, or fill out a form to request information from a sponsoring school, we may earn a commission. View our advertising disclosure for more details.
PTAs need an associate’s degree from a physical therapist assistant program accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)’s Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). These two-year programs accept applications annually and provide coursework in physical therapy, general education, and clinical education. Depending on the school, the number of accepted students may range from 12 to 50 or more.
Admissions requirements are determined by individual schools, as there is no centralized application for PTA programs. Some schools may have a more selective admissions process and require a competitive, point-based process.
Those applying to a PTA program should always check with admissions offices for further information about requirements. However, most schools require one or more of the following:
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum cumulative GPA
- Completion of prerequisite coursework in science, math, and English
- Submittal of personal statement or essay
- Recommendations from past employers or teachers
- Documented proof of observation of a clinical setting
- Immunizations
Roughly three-fourths of two-year PTA degree programs take place in a lab or classroom, where students may also pursue additional certifications such as first aid skills. The remaining fourth of the curriculum is focused on clinical hours, according to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).
Students in PTA programs spend an average of 16 weeks gaining full-time, hands-on experience. Degree programs for PTAs do not offer specializations. Accordingly, those interested in gaining experience within a specific industry, such as skilled nursing facilities or sports, will want to select a degree program with curriculum and clinical education opportunities that fit that area.
Here’s a featured list of accredited programs that train students to become licensed PTAs.
Miami Dade College has one of the longest-running PTA programs in the US and was the first to graduate a class of physical therapy assistants in 1969. Located in Miami, Florida offers a two-year associate’s degree that PTA students can complete in five semesters.
Notable for its focus on technology, Miami Dade College uses an online learning management system, Blackboard, so that students may rewatch on-campus lectures and access resources such as laboratory-savvy guides. This 74-credit program features a service-learning component, where students gain clinical experience while also serving the local community.
- Location: Multiple campuses in Florida
- Duration: 2.25 years
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
Located in Cerritos, California, Cerritos College offers an associate’s degree that prospective PTAs can complete in two years. With a focus on preparing students for licensure, over two-thirds of graduates pass their licensure exam on the first try.
Courses include therapeutic exercise, aging and integumentary management, soft tissue interventions, and prosthetics and orthotics for allied health professionals. The program begins every fall semester and can be completed in two academic years.
- Location: Cerritos, CA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
Northland Community & Technical College
Located in East Grand Forks, Minnesota, provides a 74-credit associate of applied science (AAS) degree that positions students for immediate entry into working as a PTA. This program provides a diverse curriculum that includes additional courses in medical coding, interpersonal skills, public speaking, and more.
To apply, students must take and pass the TEAS V for Allied Health Exam, hold current CPR certification, complete all courses with a grade of “C” or higher, have an educational background in the sciences, complete the health screening & immunization requirements, and a criminal background check for clinical experiences.
- Location: East Grand Forks, MN
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
Baker College – College of Health Science
With campuses throughout Michigan, Baker College’s College of Health Science offers an associate’s PTA degree that takes two years to complete. The 78-credit program notably includes three clinical placements and coursework in human anatomy and physiology, psychology, communication, patient assessment, and pediatric management.
The program is offered on-campus, but general education and prerequisite coursework is available at the Muskegon, Owosso, and Royal Oak campuses and online.
- Location: Multiple campuses in Michigan
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
Located outside of Austin in Round Rock, Texas, Austin Community College offers a two-year physical therapy assistant program. Students in this program learn from award-winning faculty who teach students how to improve mobility with exercises, techniques, and patient tracking.
Courses include human growth and development, rehabilitation techniques, management of neurological disorders, and clinical hours. Graduates from this program have a 100 percent pass rate on the licensure exam and a 94 percent job placement rate.
- Location: Round Rock, TX
- Duration: Four semesters
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
With campuses in Bullhead City, Kingman, Lake Havasu City, and North Mohave, Mohave Community College offers a two-year degree. This two-year associate’s degree program prepares students for the PTA licensing exam and work with patients of all ages who are suffering from a variety of ailments. Courses include rehabilitation of special populations, physical therapy seminars, and clinical practicum.
- Location: Multiple campuses in Arizona
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
School | City | State | Website | GRADS ('21) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Pima Medical Institute-Tucson | Tucson | Arizona | https://pmi.edu | 79 |
South College | Knoxville | Tennessee | https://www.south.edu | 51 |
Henry Ford College | Dearborn | Michigan | https://www.hfcc.edu | 38 |
San Juan College | Farmington | New Mexico | https://www.sanjuancollege.edu | 35 |
Cerritos College | Norwalk | California | https://www.cerritos.edu | 24 |
Mt Hood Community College | Gresham | Oregon | https://www.mhcc.edu | 24 |
Stanbridge University | Irvine | California | https://www.stanbridge.edu | 23 |
Brigham Young University-Idaho | Rexburg | Idaho | https://www.byui.edu | 23 |
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts | San Mateo | California | https://www.gurnick.edu | 22 |
Bossier Parish Community College | Bossier City | Louisiana | https://www.bpcc.edu | 19 |
Clarkson College | Omaha | Nebraska | https://www.clarksoncollege.edu | 19 |
James A. Rhodes State College | Lima | Ohio | https://www.rhodesstate.edu | 18 |
Santa Fe College | Gainesville | Florida | https://www.sfcollege.edu | 18 |
Amarillo College | Amarillo | Texas | https://www.actx.edu | 16 |
Holmes Community College | Goodman | Mississippi | https://holmescc.edu | 15 |
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College | Fennimore | Wisconsin | https://www.swtc.edu | 15 |
Hussian College-Daymar College Clarksville | Clarksville | Tennessee | https://www.hussiancollege.edu | 13 |
Roane State Community College | Harriman | Tennessee | https://www.roanestate.edu | 13 |
Siena Heights University | Adrian | Michigan | https://www.sienaheights.edu | 3 |
'20-'21 School Data from IPEDS (Sourced in September, 2023)
Hybrid and Online Physical Therapist Assistant & Aide Programs
Since PTAs are not required to obtain further post-secondary education or maintain any licenses or certifications, there are very few online programs available. Some community colleges offer hybrid programs which require a high school diploma or GED for admission.
Bucks County Community College
Located in Newtown, Pennsylvania, Bucks County Community College offers a hybrid physical therapy aide program at its Newtown Campus. This is a 50-hour program that prepares graduates for physical therapy aide careers. Students learn roles and responsibilities, applied human anatomy and physiology, pathology, biomechanics, and medical terminology. Special topic courses include total hip replacement, amputee support, and traumatic brain injury. Courses are offered in the evenings
- Location: Newtown, PA
- Duration: 50 hours; approximately 2.5 months
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
While there are no fully online PTA degree programs due to the need for in-person labs and clinical experiences, there are several hybrid options available. The programs profiled below offer a hybrid delivery for those seeking a career as a PTA.
Jefferson State Community College
With locations throughout Alabama, Jefferson State Community College offers a two-year hybrid associate of applied science for PTAs looking to maximize flexibility while furthering their career. Students complete lecture courses online and then travel to the Shelby-Hoover campus in Birmingham, Alabama to complete laboratory courses, network with other students, and participate in clinical experiences.
First-year coursework is dedicated to prerequisites and the second year focuses on professional courses. This program prepares graduates for the National Physical Therapy Assistants Board Exam.
- Location: Multiple campuses in Alabama
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
Based in Farmington, New Mexico, San Juan Colleges offers a two-year hybrid PTA program that provides online course delivery and in-person clinical experiences. Students then attend on-campus labs once a semester, allowing those already working or with familial responsibilities to set a schedule that works for them. Courses include therapeutic exercise, clinical externships, and pathophysiology.
- Location: Farmington, NM
- Duration: 3.25 years
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
NorthWest Arkansas Community College
Located in Bentonville, Arkansas, NorthWest Arkansas Community College offers a physical therapy assistant program in a traditional and hybrid format. In the hybrid program, students must travel to the NWACC campus every three to four weeks for a three-day intensive lab.
Courses are offered online and students are expected to manage their studying workloads. The traditional and hybrid programs offer the same requirements for service learning, didactic and clinical skills, testing procedures, and clinical internship hours.
- Location: Bentonville, AR
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
Provo College in Provo, Utah offers a 21-month hybrid PTA program. Some classes are available online or in a blended format for convenience and student safety. The curriculum includes 76 hours semester credit hours in general psychology, medical terminology, therapeutic procedures, and applied kinesiology.
Applicants to this program must submit a negative drug screening test, complete an online education virtual orientation, and have internet and computer access.
- Location: Provo, UT
- Duration: 21 months
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
Located near Seattle in Bellingham, Washington, Whatcom Community College offers an associate of science degree for PTAs. This program is offered full-time on campus and part-time online in a hybrid format. Students can expect to spend 20 to 30 hours per week on coursework and homework.
Pierce College in South Puget Sound offers an in-person laboratory course monthly. Courses in this program include applied anatomy and clinical kinesiology, clinical neurology, and ethical issues in physical therapy.
- Location: Bellingham, WA
- Duration: 2.25 years
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
Core & Elective Courses in Physical Therapy Assistance
PT Aides
While PT aides are not required to obtain any certifications or licenses, they can expect on-the-job training to prepare them for the following responsibilities:
- Preparing treatment areas for patient use, including setting and cleaning up
- Cleaning treatment areas and moving equipment to maintain functionality
- Assist with patient intake and other clerical duties
- Working with physical therapists and PTAs to observe and document patient progress and responses
- Coordinating with physicians’ offices and hospital personnel
- Transporting patients to and from treatment areas
Note that allowed job functions for PT aides may vary by state. Working as a PT aide is a common stepping stone into a career as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant.
PTAs
While programs may differ by college and state, the two-year PTA program prepares students for the following responsibilities:
- Observing patient status and progress before, during, and post-treatment
- Noting and reporting patient status to the physical therapist
- Helping patients do specific exercises and provide treatment as part of their plan of care
- Providing patient care using manual treatments, such as stretching and massage
- Using supportive equipment and devices, such as exercise balls, to help patients
- Working with the patient and their friends and family on post-care activities and options
Below are some common PTA courses that an accredited program may offer:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Exercise physiology
- Biomechanics
- Kinesiology
- Neuroscience
- Clinical pathology
- Behavioral sciences
- Communication
- Ethics and values
These courses are completed alongside clinical observations and rotations so students gain hands-on experience. Clinical experience typically accounts for 25 percent of each program. As PTAs undergo different education and training than physical therapists, it is not considered a stepping stone to becoming a physical therapist.
Accreditation of Physical Therapist Assistant Programs
PTA programs are accredited through the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), which is recognized by the United States Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Graduation from a CAPTE-accredited program is required to apply for state licensure to work as a physical therapist assistant. Note that licensure requirements differ by state.
According to the BLS, there are no accreditation requirements that apply to PT aides.
Licensing & Certification for Physical Therapist Assistants
Each state and territory in the United States requires PTAs to get licensed in the state they want to practice in. Those seeking licensure should apply and graduate from a CAPTE-accredited PTA degree program. PTAs must also pass the National Physical Therapy Assistants Exam, administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.
Additional requirements may include a background check, a jurisprudence exam on state laws and practices, and proof of minimum age (typically 18). In addition, some states may require PTAs to take a certain number of continuing education courses or maintain certification in specific life skills, such as CPR. Always check with the appropriate state board for specific licensing requirements.
PT aides are not required to get licensed or maintain any certifications. However, some employers may prefer candidates to hold CPR and Basic First Aid certifications.
Salary & Career Growth for Physical Therapy Assistants
The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2024) estimates the addition of almost 27,600 physical therapist assistant (PTA) and physical therapy aide (PT aide) jobs between 2022 and 2032. Jobs in physical therapy assistance are predicted to grow by over 19 percent as the Baby Boomer generation in the United States ages and requires rehabilitation for post-surgery recovery for hip and shoulder replacements and other common age-related ailments.
The salary outlook for Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs) from 2022 to 2032 is quite encouraging, reflecting their pivotal role in healthcare. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), PTAs can expect a steady increase in compensation over the decade. The median annual wage for PTAs was approximately $58,740 in 2023, with those in the 10th percentile earning around $42,000 and those in the 90th percentile making nearly $90,000.
This growth underscores the increasing demand for physical therapy services, driven by an aging population and a greater focus on rehabilitation and chronic disease management. The BLS also projects strong job growth for PTAs, ensuring both financial and professional stability in this rewarding healthcare profession.
Rachel Drummond, MEd Writer
Rachel Drummond has contributed insightful articles to MedicalTechnologySchools.com since 2019, where she offers valuable advice and guidance for those pursuing careers in the healthcare field, combining her passion for education with her understanding of the critical role that healthcare professionals play in promoting physical and mental well-being.
Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog, inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.
Bree Nicolello Writer
Bree is an urban planner and freelance writer based in Seattle, WA. She has worked on land use and housing policy issues throughout the Pacific Northwest. She previously led Run Oregon Run, a nonprofit dedicated to helping Oregonians run for office and apply to boards and commissions. When not writing, she is lovingly tending to her cast iron pans.
Related Articles
- How Much Does a Physical Therapist Assistant Make?
- How to Become a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
Related Programs
- Dental Assistant
- Kinesiologist
- Medical Assistant