Physical Therapist Assistant
Curriculum
The Physical Therapist Assistant program prepares students to work under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist, implementing treatment interventions that help patients recover strength, mobility, and function after injury, surgery, or illness. Students study human anatomy and kinesiology, therapeutic exercise, modalities, and rehabilitation techniques for orthopedic and neurological conditions.
The curriculum combines classroom instruction and skills laboratory practice with two supervised clinical practicum experiences in settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, and rehabilitation centers, where students apply their skills under the guidance of practicing clinicians.
Graduates are eligible to apply to take the National Physical Therapy Examination for Physical Therapist Assistants (NPTE-PTA) and pursue careers in hospitals, outpatient rehabilitation, skilled nursing facilities, and home health.
Degrees, Diplomas & Certificates
The following credentials are offered under the Physical Therapist Assistant program.
Associate in Applied Science
Learning Outcomes
- Implement components of a physical therapy plan of care under the direction of a physical therapist.
- Perform therapeutic exercise, modalities, and functional training techniques safely and effectively.
- Document patient response to treatment and communicate findings to the supervising physical therapist.
- Practice within the legal, ethical, and safety standards of physical therapist assistant practice.
Career Outcomes
Physical Therapist Assistants
Data sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Projections Central, and O*NET.