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become a ptaIf you’re interested in learning how to become a physical therapist assistant, the first step will be to find an accredited training program in your area and learn about the enrollment requirements. Typically, a program applicant will need to have a GED or high school diploma in order to be eligible for enrollment, however, some schools will also require a potential student to pass a physical exam and criminal background check, as well as possess high admission testing scores.

In the field, the physical therapy assistant will provide care to patients, under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. Typically, most employers will require a PTA to have an associate’s degree in this field, although there are certificate programs available.

How to Become a PTA through Associate’s Degree Programs

It will take two years and will also include clinical internships at local medical facilities. Students enrolled in an associate’s degree will learn a variety of rehabilitation techniques, including hydrotherapy, massage and heat treatments and ultrasound. A student will learn how to become an effective teacher, which will help them to teach patients how to use wheelchairs, walkers and crutches, in addition to other types of movement aids. The classwork will focus on administrative aspects of this position, which can include patient documentation and data collection. Once a student has graduated they will be eligible to take the certification exam, which is a requirement in order to work in this field.

In an accredited associate’s degree program for physical therapy assisting, students will learn through lab work, coursework and lectures. The supervised clinical internship at a local healthcare facility will provide students with the necessary hands on training that is part of certification eligibility.

Some of the core classes in this degree program will include physiology and anatomy, psychology, kinesiology, medical laws and ethics, medical terminology, physical therapy techniques and interventions.

Job Outlook for PTAs

After a student has learned how to become a PTA, they can find a number of employment opportunities in ambulatory healthcare services, private practices, nursing homes, assisted living facilities and hospitals. The PTA can also travel to a patient’s home and help them with treatment.

According to statistics, the average entry level salary for this position is $32,000, with a salary potential of $50,000, depending on a PTA’s years of experience, their place of employment, and area of specialization. The projected job growth for this field is expected to increase by forty percent in the next five years.

Now that you know how to becoming a PT assistant you can begin on your way to this exciting career through accredited training programs in your area.