What is a Physical Therapy Technician?

A physical therapy technician, also known as a physical therapist assistant, is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. They assist in the delivery of physical therapy services, helping patients recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve their overall physical function.

Training Requirements

To become a physical therapy technician in Milwaukee, you'll need to complete an accredited training program. These programs typically take around two years to complete and result in an associate's degree or a certificate. During the training, you'll learn about anatomy, physiology, therapeutic techniques, and patient care.

What's the Fastest Someone Can Become a Physical Therapy Technician in Milwaukee?

The fastest way to become a physical therapy technician in Milwaukee is to enroll in a certificate program. These programs can be completed in as little as one year, providing you with the necessary skills and knowledge to start your career in the field.

Physical Therapy Technician Classes in Milwaukee

There are several schools in Milwaukee that offer physical therapy technician classes. Here are a few examples:

Milwaukee Area Technical College

• Program: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
• Length: 2 years
• Tuition: Approximately $5,000 per year for in-state students
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, prerequisite courses, and a competitive application process
• Overview: Milwaukee Area Technical College's physical therapist assistant program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). The program provides a comprehensive education in physical therapy techniques, patient care, and professional development.

Waukesha County Technical College

• Program: Physical Therapist Assistant
• Length: 2 years
• Tuition: Approximately $4,500 per year for in-state students
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, prerequisite courses, and a competitive application process
• Overview: Waukesha County Technical College's physical therapist assistant program is also accredited by CAPTE. The program prepares students to work as physical therapy technicians in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.

Bryant & Stratton College

• Program: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
• Length: 2 years
• Tuition: Approximately $17,000 per year
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, prerequisite courses, and a competitive application process
• Overview: Bryant & Stratton College's physical therapist assistant program is designed to provide students with a well-rounded education in physical therapy techniques and patient care. The program is accredited by CAPTE and prepares graduates for entry-level positions in the field.

Exploring a Career in Physical Therapy Technician Outside Milwaukee

For anyone looking to become a Physical Therapy Technician but is in a different state, your opportunity to work as a Physical Therapy Technician might be found in Baton Rouge, Harrisburg, Louisville/Jefferson County, San Bernardino/Riverside, or Spokane. Should these not be viable options, Dreambound eases the process of discovering and comparing Physical Therapy Technician classes with a zip code-based search. With the drive to succeed and the support of resources like Dreambound, anyone can forge a successful path in health, no matter where they are.

Online and Free Options in Milwaukee

While there are no fully online physical therapy technician programs available in Milwaukee, some schools do offer hybrid or blended learning options that combine online coursework with in-person clinical experiences. Additionally, there are no free physical therapy technician programs in Milwaukee, as these programs typically require tuition and fees to cover the cost of instruction and materials.

Certification Process

To become a certified physical therapy technician in Milwaukee, you'll need to pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for Physical Therapist Assistants. This exam is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) and is required for licensure in most states, including Wisconsin.

Job Environment in Milwaukee

The job environment for physical therapy technicians in Milwaukee is quite promising. The city is home to several major healthcare systems, including Froedtert Health, Aurora Health Care, and Ascension Wisconsin, all of which employ physical therapy technicians. Additionally, there are numerous private physical therapy clinics and outpatient rehabilitation centers throughout the Milwaukee area that offer job opportunities for qualified professionals.

Final Thoughts

If you're interested in becoming a physical therapy technician and want to take advantage of the promising job market in Milwaukee, there are several excellent training programs available in the city. Whether you choose a two-year associate's degree program or a one-year certificate program, you'll be well on your way to a rewarding career in the healthcare field. With the right training and certification, you can find a good physical therapy technician job in Milwaukee and earn a competitive salary.

If you're thinking of a new career path, Dreambound offers in-depth guides to understand various job choices:

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