Physical Therapist Assistant program fact sheet (pdf)

Program Director Norman Johnson 
Audio message from Dr. Johnson
Contact information

BOYCE             
Associate of Science (628.1)

The Physical Therapist Assistant program is designed to prepare graduates to perform physical therapy procedures and related tasks under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist.  Graduates complete a minimum of 784 hours of supervised clinical experience that is coordinated with 450 hours of classroom learning.  The physical therapist assistant (PTA) performs a variety of treatment procedures in settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation facilities, schools, patient homes, sports medicine clinics and private practices.  Through the utilization of therapeutic modalities and exercise, and other techniques, physical therapy aids patients in the relief of pain and discomfort as well as assisting the disabled in restoring optimal functioning.

Enrollment is limited by availability of clinical sites and other factors.  Students must make separate application to the program. Applicants should have a successful record of achievement in high school courses or develop these skills prior to program admission.  Students must also meet pre-program requirements, which include the successful completion of  BIO-151 General Biology 1 or BIO-110 Introduction to Biological Science.

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), 1111 Fairfax Street, Alexandria, VA 22314; 703.684.2782, www.apta.org.

Graduates of this accredited program will be eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Examination for Physical Therapist Assistant Registration administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).

A felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to take the registration examination or obtain state licensure.  A majority of the states require a license to practice as a physical therapist assistant.

Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate will: 

1. Meet the requirements for an associate of science degree exhibiting entry level competencies as a physical therapist assistant, be prepared to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination for Physical Therapist Assistant Registration and gain employment.
2. Display professional behaviors that are congruent with the core values, standards and ethics of the physical therapy profession.
3. Demonstrate respect for cultural diversity, lifestyle values and choices of others.
4. Communicate effectively with clients, family members and other healthcare providers.
5. Utilize reflective judgment and problem solving skills and demonstrate participation in professional development opportunities to promote health and wellness.

See the graduation checksheet for this program in printable PDF form.

Degree Requirements

Minimum Credits to Graduate: 67–69

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