Physical Therapist Assistant, AAS (AAS.PHYSTA)

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Associate in Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant

69 Credit Hours

This program prepares students to implement physical therapy interventions, including therapeutic exercises, functional training and physical modalities such as electrotherapy and ultrasound, as well as providing instruction in exercise, proper body mechanics and other injury prevention and wellness topics. Additional duties include reimbursement responsibilities, documentation and continuing education. PTAs work under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist. Graduates become licensed by passing the National Physical Therapy Exam for Physical Therapist Assistants.

Accreditation

Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100
Alexandria, VA 22305-3085
703-706-3245
Email the CAPTE.

Related Certificates

The Health Sciences Preparation Certificate (CAS.HEALSP) (CAS.HEALSP.PTH Pathway) can be used to fulfill some of the requirements of this associate degree. Some courses may be required prior to admission to this program. Your faculty advisor or success coach can help to tailor your plan.

Part A - General Education Requirements

REQ Communication: ENG 101 - English Composition I Credit: 3
REQ Math/Science (Choose One):
MAT 110 - College Algebra Credit: 3 or
MAT 120 - Probability and Statistics Credit: 3
REQ Other: BIO 210 - Anatomy and Physiology I Credit: 4
REQ Social Science: Select from
Behavioral/Social Sciences
(PSY 201 Recommended) Credit: 3
REQ Humanities: Select from
Humanities
Credit: 3

Total: 16

Part B - Major Requirements

BIO 211 - Anatomy and Physiology II Credit: 4
PTH 101 - Physical Therapy Professional Preparation Credit: 2
PTH 118 - Physical Agents and Modalities Credit: 4
PTH 205 - Physical Therapy Functional Anatomy Credit: 4
PTH 210 - Patient Care Techniques Credit: 4
PTH 221 - Pathology I Credit: 2
PTH 222 - Pathology II Credit: 2
PTH 235 - Interpersonal Dynamics Credit: 2
PTH 240 - Therapeutic Exercises/Applications Credit: 5
PTH 242 - Orthopedic Management Credit: 4
PTH 244 - Rehabilitation Credit: 4
PTH 250 - Special Topics in Physical Therapy Credit: 1
PTH 252 - Clinical Practice Credit: 2
PTH 266 - Physical Therapy Practicum I Credit: 6
PTH 275 - Advanced Professional Preparation Credit: 1
PTH 276 - Physical Therapy Practicum II Credit: 6

Total: 53

Admission and Program Requirements

General admissions and program specific procedures are required for Health Science programs, such as mandated orientation session and health record requirements. View the specific requirements by visiting the Health Sciences division page.

Applicants will be admitted to this program on a first-qualified, first-admitted basis. Applicants are considered to be qualified for admission to the next available class when they meet all college and program requirements. View the starting semesters page for more information.

For more information, review the program information and information sessions page. Visit the course programs and progression page for program completion and course progression information.

Course Sequence

Review the Physical Therapist Assistant, AAS - Course Sequence for a recommended sequence of courses. Please contact your advisor for guidance. A recommended course sequence is a structured plan to help students complete degree requirements efficiently.