Physical Therapist Assistant

The following steps are required for a student applying to the Physical Therapist Assistant program:

• Apply to the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC).
• Take the CCAC Placement Test(s).
  • Applicants who have college-level courses from other institutions must submit official transcripts to transcripts@ccac.edu. Applicants must include an unofficial copy of transcripts and a copy of your transcript evaluation summary in the application packet.
• Meet with an Academic Advisor.
• Complete all prerequisites, including developmental courses, if needed.
  • Complete General Biology (BIO 151) or Introduction to Biological Sciences (BIO 110) with a "C" or better
  • Exception: successful completion of an anatomy and physiology course equivalent to CCAC BIO 161–Anatomy and Physiology 1. The BIO 161–Anatomy & Physiology 1 and BIO 162–Anatomy & Physiology 2 courses must have been successfully completed with a letter grade of "C" or better within the last ten years.
  • Students who have enrolled in the same developmental course more than three times will not be considered for acceptance in an Allied Health program. Students who have enrolled in the same science course more than three times will not be considered for acceptance.
  • A "W" or "I" grade also counts as an enrollment attempt. 

• A minimum TAS of 3.0 or higher is required to apply.
• Submit a copy of your unofficial transcript. This is required even if you are a prior or current CCAC student.
• Submit a complete online application information form.
• After completing the online application information form, the following information will be emailed to you:
  • Clinical Observation Form (job shadowing)
  • Essential Functions Form
  • Self Essay

The intent of the Self Essay is to provide an opportunity to reflect on your experiences and goals as well as to research the profession. Your life experiences and career exploration activities should assist you in writing your essay. 

Self Essay Requirements:

1. Formatting
   • Use college-level English writing.
   • Use clear and concise language.
   • Typed, one to two pages in length.
   • Use standard 12-point font.
2. Header
   • Your full name
   • Address, phone and email address
   • CCAC Student ID number
3. Topics
   • A brief summary of recent and pertinent life experiences:
     • Education (high school to present) 
     • Recent work experience
       • Related personal or family medical experiences (optional)
     • Volunteer work or community service
     • Hobbies and interests
     • Awards and honors
     • Memberships
   • A brief definition of your major field of interest, in your own words.
   • A brief explanation of your choice of career goal.
   • A brief summary of your self-perceived strengths and weakness.
   • A brief summary of your educational and career goals.