What is the difference between a physical therapist (PT) and a physical therapist assistant (PTA)?
The entry-level degree for a PT is a Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT). The entry-level degree for a PTA is an Associate in Applied Science (AAS). The PT performs an initial examination and evaluation of a patient, establishes a physical therapy diagnosis, and creates short and long term goals and a plan of care. The PT also implements treatment interventions, conducts progress notes and re-evaluations, documents in the medical record and completes discharge summaries. The PTA works under the supervision of a PT to provide treatment interventions, progress patients, document in the medical record and communicate with the supervising PT.
Is the PTA program a starter program for someone who wants to be a physical therapist (PT)?
If you are interested in becoming a physical therapist, we strongly recommend that you pursue the PT path directly. While some of our graduates have pursued a Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree after graduation from the PTA Program, it is not common. Applicants to PT programs must have completed a baccalaureate degree and all pre-requisite courses required for the PT program, even if s/he has completed a PTA program.
What would a "Day in the Life of a PTA" be like?
This question is perhaps best answered by visiting a physical therapy facility to observe a PTA "in action". If that is not possible, you might enjoy viewing this YouTube clip of a PTA who is employed in Oregon. He's not an alumnus of the MCCC PTA program, but his experiences are representative of what it's like to be a PTA. Click on this link: A day in the life
Are physical therapist assistants licensed?
Licensure requirements for PTAs depend on the state in which the PTA will practice physical therapy. The state of New Jersey requires that PTAs be licensed to practice physical therapy under the supervision of a PT.
Are there specific educational requirements to be a physical therapy aide?
There are no specific educational requirements to become a physical therapy aide or rehab aide.
Once accepted into the professional phase of the PTA Program, are the courses offered in the day or evening?
The professional phase of the PTA program is considered a "full-time day" program. Please note that there is one evening course per semester during the first three semesters of the professional phase and students complete competency tests and written exams between classes and on Saturdays.
When does the professional phase of the PTA Program begin?
The professional phase begins each fall (session A).
What is the average age of students accepted into the professional phase of the PTA Program?
The average age of the learners accepted into the PTA Class of 2019 is 33 years. Most of our learners come to PTA as a second career choice, making them highly motivated, supportive of each other and talented at juggling life and academics. Most of our learners enter the program with varying life experiences, and strong time management and multi-tasking skills. PTA learners tend to experience a strong sense of community throughout the professional phase of the program.
Is there job placement assistance following graduation from the PTA Program?
There is no formal job placement following graduation. Most of our graduates who have sought employment as PTAs (following successful completion of the program and board exam) have found employment within six months of graduation.