Program Overview

The Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant degree is designed to facilitate the development of each student into a competent, entry-level physical therapist assistant. The program regards each student as an active participant bringing a variety of individual needs and attributes to the educational process. The program is committed to preparing the physical therapist assistant students to become lifelong learners and critical thinkers who will be prepared to contribute to the body of knowledge in physical therapy. Graduates of the program will be prepared to work under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist in the delivery of rehabilitative care.

Student/Graduate Level Goals:

The PTA program will prepare graduates for entry-level practice as physical therapist assistants who will work under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist in an ethical, legal, safe, and effective manner.

The PTA program will prepare graduates to demonstrate entry-level critical thinking skills to effectively address patient care situations and to adapt to the rapidly changing challenges in healthcare and physical therapist assistant responsibilities.

Program Level Goals:

The PTA program will educate the students in cultural diversity, effective communication, and professional behaviors. This program will facilitate participation in community service and lifelong learning activities and will provide a contemporary, comprehensive, and evidence-based curriculum appropriate for an entry-level physical therapist assistant.

Physical Therapist Assistants (PTA's) provide physical therapy services under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist. PTA's help manage patients with various conditions and injuries. They work with individuals who have health conditions that limit their ability to perform daily activities. The care provided by PTA's includes teaching patients exercises and activities to increase mobility, strength, and coordination, as well as using physical modalities to decrease pain and improve function.