How to Become a PTA

Physical therapist assistants (PTA) play a major role in delivering critical rehabilitation services. Working under the supervision and direction of physical therapists (PT), PTAs work hands-on with patients who have chronic disabilities, acute injuries, and age-related difficulties. PTAs help these patients recover or improve mobility, strength, and coordination by guiding them through various rehabilitation activities like stretches and exercises. They often also educate patients and their families through post-treatment care plans. Becoming a PTA means gaining technical knowledge and practical skills in educational and clinical environments.

If you’re thinking about a career as a physical therapist assistant, the path starts with the right training. Here’s how to get started:

PTA programs are fairly competitive, and Villa Maria College’s program is no different. Students looking to join the program at Villa must meet several preadmission requirements. All applicants seeking direct admission must have at least an 85 or higher high school average or a 2.8 or higher college GPA. Prospective students must also take biology and either chemistry or physics in high school or college. Additionally, program candidates should complete either BIO 103 Human Anatomy & Physiology I or BIO 103L Human Anatomy & Physiology I Lab courses prior to enrolling in Villa’s PTA program.

However, these requirements don’t necessarily exclude students from joining the program outright. Applicants who don’t have all of the prerequisites can still apply under the liberal arts general studies (LBG)/PTA track. This track allows students to fulfill course and GPA requirements, though you may need an additional one or two semesters.

PTAs require an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree. This degree program takes most students two years to complete. At Villa, first-year physical therapist assistant classes include second-level human anatomy and physiology and introductory courses in patient care skills, principles of exercise, physical agents, kinesiology, and clinical neurology. The second year is primarily focused on clinical internships; Villa PTA students must complete three internships to obtain their degree. During these internships, students are exposed to the patients and treatment scenarios they can expect to find in various care settings. These include hospitals, community health centers, nursing homes, and sports facilities, among others. A summer semester between the first and second year is only required if students enter Villa’s PTA program without transfer credit.

After graduating, the next step is to sit for the licensing exam called the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). This test is administered by the National Licensing Examination Boards of Physical Therapy and the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). Regardless of which state you want to work in, all graduates must pass the exam before practicing as a PTA. Additionally, some states require a jurisprudence exam to practice, ensuring you are familiar with the laws and rules of that state. Employers will require official proof of passing the NPTE before offering you a job. Those who fail the exam the first time can take it up to two more times in a single calendar year.

Villa recommends studying early and often for this exam. Visit the FSBPT’s website for questions and exam practice materials.

Villa’s PTA program has a high licensure exam pass rate and a 100% job placement rate for those who pass their exam! Our graduates go on to work in a range of different healthcare settings, including PT clinics, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.

Career Services assists students in their job search by connecting them with professionals in their field and providing them with the tools to put their best foot forward with employers. This program is called FirstHand and it includes helping you prepare a resume and cover letter, learning to use virtual tools like Zoom for interviews, and helping you find job opportunities that reflect your interests and goals.

We’re invested in seeing our students thrive. Students have access to two state-of-the-art labs right on campus, providing the perfect space to practice and hone their skills. Whether you’re just starting your college journey or looking to transfer, our PTA program provides the education and experience necessary for a rewarding career. Interested in learning more about our physical therapist assistant program? Reach out today!