Physical Therapist Assistant, A.A.S.

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Program Code: PTA.AAS.PTA or GNS.AA.PTA for applicants

This program provides students with a foundation of knowledge and clinical skills required to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination, work as an entry-level physical therapist assistant under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist, function as an integral part of the health care team, promote health and wellness in the community and advance the profession of physical therapy. In order to graduate, students must obtain a grade of “C” or better in all PTA courses.

Wor-Wic’s physical therapist assistant (PTA) program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Ste. 100, Alexandria, Va., 22305; phone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: www.capteonline.org. Graduates can apply for state licensure and take the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for physical therapist assistants, which is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy. Applicants for state licensure are required to pass the NPTE and complete a criminal background check. State licensure is required to work as a physical therapist assistant.

Pre-Physical Therapist Assistant Courses

Remaining Courses

Fall

Spring

Summer

Fall

Spring

Symbol(s)

* This course has a prerequisite.

♦ This course can be taken before being accepted into the program.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program should be able to:

Apply their knowledge and skills to perform the duties and patient care activities of an entry-level physical therapist assistant under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist in a variety of settings;
Recognize individual and cultural differences by appropriately adjusting interventions and communications in all aspects of physical therapy services;
Effectively and accurately communicate information verbally and non-verbally with clients, co-workers and others in the health care environment;
Practice in a legal, safe and ethical manner, consistent with the code of ethics of the American Physical Therapy Association and applicable state and federal laws; and
Demonstrate a commitment to the physical therapy profession by improving their skills and participating in community service.