FAQ - Physical Therapist Assisting

Frequently Asked Questions

Physical Therapist Assisting

What does a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) do?

Physical Therapist Assistants (PTA's) work under the supervision of a physical therapist. Their duties include assisting the physical therapist in implementing treatment programs according to the plan of care, training patients in exercises and activities of daily living, conducting treatments using special equipment, administering modalities and other treatment procedures, and reporting to the physical therapist on the patient's responses.

Is the Physical Therapist Assisting program competitive?

The PTA program is a two-year associate degree program designed to give instruction in the various laboratory experiences and techniques essential for performing physical therapy under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. To be admitted to the Freshman year (Pre-PTA, major code 808), the student must meet specific requirements in math, science, English, and social sciences at a high school level. Entrance into the Sophomore year (PTA, major code 611), is competitive and determined by an aptitude and interest in physical therapist assisting, academic performance and longevity in the program. Applications for admittance to the Sophomore year should be made by the end of Winter quarter. Selection will be completed by June. Sophomore class size may vary and is limited to approximately 18-20 students.

The selection process consists of three categories:

1. The first category, academic performance, seeks to recognize the student who has shown the maturity and intellectual ability to perform well in those college level courses required in the Freshman Year of the PTA curriculum. 2. The second category, through six different means, seeks to give the student an opportunity to show both an interest in and an aptitude for physical therapist assisting. The six means are as follows: 1. Performance on the Allied Health Aptitude Test 2. Recommendation of PTA faculty 3. Three letters of recommendation 4. Admission Application 5. Exposure to Physical Therapy (volunteer hours) 6. Personal interview.

Is it possible to complete the PTA program in the evenings only or on a part-time basis?

Some of the courses required during the Freshman year of the program can be taken in the evenings, however, not all courses have evening offerings. The Freshman year can also be taken on a part-time basis. The Sophomore year of the program must be taken during the day on a full-time basis.