Physical Therapist Assistant and PT Aide

Physical therapy assistance and aids is one of the fastest-growing fields in the United States and is expected to grow by a whopping 24 percent between 2021 and 2031. In fact, the United States Bureau of Employment and Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts the addition of almost 33,900 physical therapist assistant (PTA) and physical therapy aide (PT aide) jobs as the need for physical therapy grows. This increase is largely due to an aging population and increased prevalence of chronic conditions such as obesity and diabetes.

PTAs and PT aides typically work in offices, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, or home healthcare settings that provide one-on-one care. Some of the patients they work with may include those who have neurological disorders that impact movements such as a stroke, work- or sports-related injuries, and more.

It’s important to note that PTAs perform different duties and have greater education and licensing requirements than physical therapist aides. While both work in a physical therapy setting, PT aides typically have a high school diploma or GED or GED and are not required to get licensed. They gain experience through on-the-job training, performing indirect patient care by performing clerical duties, setting and cleaning up treatment areas, and moving patients.

On the other hand, PTAs work under the supervision and direction of a physical therapist to provide treatment, rehabilitation, or preventive care to people of all ages. They work closely with patients, monitoring and reporting their status and progress to the physical therapist throughout their treatment. Care and treatment options may include exercises, hands-on therapy, and assistive equipment. Depending on the injury or illness, recovery plans range from short- to long-term care.

All PTAs must obtain a high school diploma or GED and complete an associate’s degree from a PTA program accredited through the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Coursework typically includes clinical pathology, biology, anatomy, physiology, and ethics, and an average of 16 weeks of full-time supervised clinical education to obtain hands-on experience.

Those interested in PTA or working as a PT aide should demonstrate compassion, attention to detail, and interpersonal skills as they largely work one-on-one with patients. They should also have dexterity and physical stamina, as they spend most of the day on their feet, providing manual treatment or assisting patients with exercises and movement.

Read on to discover how to become a PTA, including education and licensure requirements, or pursue a career as a PT aide.

PTAs need an associate’s degree from a CAPTE-accredited physical therapist assistant program. These two-year programs provide physical therapy, general education, and clinical education coursework.

Note that associate’s degrees are offered in both occupational and academic formats. Occupational associate’s degrees, offered as an associate of occupational studies (AOS) or associate of applied science (AAS), are structured to provide a fast track to the workforce and typically require limited to no general education courses. On the other hand, an academic associate’s degree includes general education coursework and is designed to be transferable to an undergraduate program for completion of a bachelor’s degree. These typically include an associate of arts (AA) degree or an associate of science (AS) degree.

Roughly three-fourths of PTA degree programs occur in a lab or classroom, where students may pursue additional certifications such as first aid skills. Physical therapy coursework may include anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, neuroscience, clinical pathology, behavioral sciences, communication, and ethics/values. The remaining 25 percent of the study consists of supervised clinical education.

According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), students spend an average of 16 weeks gaining full-time, hands-on experience. Degree programs for PTAs do not offer specializations. Accordingly, those interested in gaining experience within a certain industry, such as skilled nursing facilities or sports, will want to select a degree program with curriculum and clinical education opportunities that fit that area.

While PTA programs are not ranked, the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) has accredited over 350 associate’s degree programs as of August 2023. Some programs may be offered partially online through a hybrid delivery option.

Every state and territory in the United States requires PTAs to obtain an associate’s degree from an accredited program and get licensed. Licensure requirements vary by state, so PTAs should always check with the state licensing board for the state where they want to practice.

PT aides must have a high school diploma or GED and learn on the job.

Admissions requirements are determined by individual schools, as there is no centralized application for PTA programs. Some schools may have a more selective admissions process and require a competitive, point-based process. Students typically apply to PTA programs on an annual basis. The number of accepted students may range from 12 to 50 or more depending on the school.

Admissions requirements may include completion of prerequisite courses with a minimum cumulative GPA and the ability to meet writing requirements through the evaluation of a personal statement or essay. Prerequisite courses may include biology, algebra, psychology, and English or composition. Lastly, some programs may require students to provide recommendation letters or complete a certain number of observation hours within a clinical setting.

Students interested in applying to a physical therapist assistant program should check with admissions offices for further information about requirements.

As mentioned above, PTA programs are accredited through the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), which is recognized by the United States Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Graduation from a CAPTE-accredited program is required to apply for state licensure to work as a physical therapist assistant.

PTA programs with CAPTE accreditation have demonstrated that they meet professional standards and adequately prepare students to enter the field. Accreditation is the process of using peer review to evaluate the educational quality of an institution or program of study at a specific institution. This system does not rank programs against one another. Instead, accreditation examines whether a program has the curriculum, instruction, and practices to set up students for success as physical therapist assistants. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) is the professional board for physical therapist assistants, sponsors CAPTE, and provides staff support.

Baker College – College of Health Science

The College of Health Science at Baker College offers a dynamic associate of applied science (AAS) degree for those looking to take the next step in their career as a PTA. The 78-credit program provides coursework in human anatomy and physiology; pathophysiology; applied clinical anatomy; acute and long-term care; neurological foundations of motor control; therapeutic exercise; orthopedic interventions; neurological management; cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, and more. Notably, the program also requires three clinical placements so students can gain full-time, hands-on experience.

This program has limited enrollment, meaning admission is more selective than other programs offered on campus. Admission to the program is based on a point-based scale. Students are awarded points based on their grades in required prerequisite courses and their ability to pass an assessment. The top-ranked students are accepted to the program. Students must have a high school diploma or GED, pass a background check, and be able to perform physical activities.

• Location(s): Owosso, Royal Oak, Muskegon (Michigan)
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE); Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years
• Estimated Tuition: $435 per credit

Cerritos College

The competitive PTA program at Cerritos College only accepts 32 applicants yearly and is known for diverse clinical education opportunities. Students accepted into this program are placed in clinics and hospitals as early as the second semester of their first year, allowing them to work in various settings with a wide array of patient populations. The program has 44 credits and includes coursework in kinesiology; pathology; neurology; aging, and more.

Notably, Cerritos College offers a course focusing on licensure examination preparation to prepare students for success. Over two-thirds of students pass their licensure exam on the first try.

Admission to this academic associate’s program is by application only and is through a point-based system. Competitive applicants have excellent grades in science and math prerequisite coursework and general education coursework and work experience in physical therapy settings. Furthermore, prospective students must demonstrate acceptable scores on college placement tests for writing, mathematics, and reading. Students must have a high school diploma or GED to apply and proof of ability to obtain required immunizations and health screenings.

• Location: Norwalk, California
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE); Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years
• Estimated Tuition: Resident ($46 per unit); non-resident ($310 per credit)

St. Catherine University

St. Catherine University offers a two-year PTA program for students looking to start a career in this field. Graduates will know how to assist patients of all ages recover mobility, improve fitness, or live with physical limitations. This program awards an associate’s degree, which makes graduates eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE). Classes are available online, with in-person labs and clinical experiences.

The PTA program at this school is housed in the same department as the doctor of physical therapy (DPT) program. This allows for collaborative learning opportunities across the programs and insights into how the two roles can work together and support each other.

All students start in a pre-PTA major and must complete general education classes and prerequisites. Once requirements have been met, students can apply for PTA program admission. Completion of the pre-PTA program does not guarantee admission into the competitive PTA degree.

This 63-credit curriculum includes courses such as patient handling techniques; physical therapy intervention techniques; musculoskeletal anatomy and measurement techniques; healthcare delivery system; introductory concepts in pediatric physical therapy; concepts in geriatric physical therapy; and foundation, pathology, and application of musculoskeletal physical therapy.

• Location: St. Paul, Minnesota
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE); Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years
• Estimated Tuition: $750 per credit

California University of Pennsylvania

Learn how to implement and monitor comprehensive physical therapy plans through the California University of Pennsylvania PTA program. Other topics covered include applying patient interventions, making clinical judgments, and collecting data through physical therapy. The first-time passing rate for the class of 2020 was 70 percent, and the class of 2021 was 54 percent for a two-year first passing rate of 64 percent.

Only 26 students are admitted to this program each year. Admissions are competitive, and applicants are evaluated on their GPA from their first-semester pre-technical courses. Other admission requirements include at least ten hours of shadowing in a physical therapy office and a basic CPR certification. Admitted students must pass a background check, drug screening, and TB test and provide proof of current immunizations.

Comprising 71 credits, the program includes courses such as introduction to physical therapist assistant; basic physical therapy procedures; professional issues in PT; interventions in cardiopulmonary impairments; interventions in neurological impairments; interventions in orthopedic impairments; and therapeutic modalities.

• Location: California, Pennsylvania
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE); Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years
• Estimated Tuition: Pennsylvania residents ($322 per credit); non-residents ($482 per credit)

Missouri Western State University – School of Nursing and Health Professions

Housed in Missouri Western’s School of Nursing and Health Professions, the PTA degree program is a rigorous two-year program. In addition to classroom coursework, students complete three practicums in physical therapy offices to gain hands-on experience and help prepare them to enter the workforce. Each practicum is three weeks long and is full-time, allowing students to really immerse themselves in the office and patient care.

This program requires 15 to 19 semester-credits of general education studies and 63 credits in required coursework. Classes students must complete include clinical neurology, diseases and dysfunctions, psychosocial aspects of physical therapy, and patient care skills. Typical employers for graduates include outpatient clinics, inpatient care facilities, rehabilitation centers, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.

• Location: St. Joseph, Missouri
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE); Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years
• Estimated Tuition: In-state ($258 per credit); out-of-state ($542 per credit)

While there are no fully online PTA degree programs due to the need for in-person labs and clinical experiences, there are some hybrid options available. A hybrid program enables students to take certain courses online, allowing greater flexibility while ensuring students can access on-campus lab and clinical education components. The programs profiled below offer a hybrid delivery for those seeking a career as a PTA.

Clark State College – Health, Human, and Public Services Division

With an emphasis on flexibility for working professionals and parents, Clark State College provides a hybrid degree program for those wishing to dive into a new career as a PTA. Students are able to maximize their education experience by taking courses online and then participating in on-site labs at Clark State’s campuses in Columbus or Springfield.

The 65-credit program results in an associate of applied science (AAS) in PTA. Highlighted coursework includes medical terminology; rehabilitation; anatomy and physiology; lifespan human growth and development; and psychology. Clinical education work takes place in the summer after the first year. These clinicals consist of three full-time rotations that are four, five, and seven weeks respectively.

Admission to this program is competitive, so students are ranked based on the strength of their application. At a minimum, students must get an adequate score through the ACCUPLACER assessment to demonstrate college writing, reading, and mathematical readiness. They must also complete prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry, and physics with a grade of “C” or better, as well as have a minimum 2.5 GPA.

Finally, students should complete 60 hours of observation, volunteer, or work experience in three different clinical settings under the supervision of a physical therapist or PTA (this requirement may be deferred due to COVID–19 restrictions). Note that a high school diploma or GED, as well as the ability to pass a background check, are required to apply.

• Location: Springfield, Ohio
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE); Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years
• Estimated Tuition: Ohio resident ($175.33 per credit); non-resident ($322.66 per credit)

Whatcom Community College

Whatcom Community College provides a rigorous, hybrid PTA program that prepares students for a competitive job market. Courses are taken entirely online and students must come to campus for on-site labs just one weekend a month, making this program ideal for part-time students balancing other responsibilities. Notably, students may attend lab sections at many locations throughout the Puget Sound region.

This 111-credit program includes 84 credits of core coursework and 27 credits of general education courses. Coursework includes clinical neurology; ethical issues in physical therapy; anatomy and pathophysiology; and applied anatomy and clinical kinesiology. The clinical experience starts in the second year, where students take three internship courses that provide a combined 640 hours of clinical experience.

Admission to this program is competitive and consideration of applicants is ranked by a committee and based on points. Students must submit a personal statement; undergo a background check; pass an online assessment demonstrating readiness for online or hybrid learning; submit a recommendation; complete 25 hours of work, volunteer, or observational experience in a physical therapy facility; and complete prerequisite and general education coursework with a minimum grade of “C+” or better. However, applicants with a cumulative 3.3 GPA or higher are considered competitive. A high school diploma or GED is required to apply.

• Location: Bellingham, Washington
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE); Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years and three months
• Estimated Tuition: Resident ($123.58 per credit); non-resident ($317.95 per credit)

Rasmussen University

With both on-campus and online courses, the PTA program at Rasmussen University offers students flexible options to complete the required coursework. This PTA degree is also available with $149 self-directed assessments, which allow students to prove that they have already completed a particular course and don’t need to take it.

Most lecture-based classes are offered in an online format. However, students must travel to campus a few times a week for concentrated lab time, often several days in a row. This flexibility allows students to continue working or caring for a family while still completing their degree.

Comprising 93 credits, the program includes courses such as physical therapist assistant fundamentals; introduction to evidence-based practice and therapeutic interventions; principles of neuromuscular physical therapy; physical therapy practice across the lifespan; physical therapy practice for special populations; and human anatomy and physiology.

• Location: Ocala, Florida; Brooklyn Park, Minnesota
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE); Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Expected Time to Completion: 18 months
• Estimated Tuition: $360 per credit

Mendocino College

Mendocino College offers a flexible associate of science in physical therapy assisting. All theory courses are offered online and lab courses are on campus. Students must only come to campus for approximately two days each week, and only during the fall and spring semesters. The goal of this program is to produce competent entry-level PTAs and to provide an inclusive learning environment.

Upon completion of a prerequisite semester of coursework, students can be admitted to the full PTA program. Only 24 students are admitted to the full program for the spring semester each year. All qualified applicants are placed in a lottery and are awarded a spot based on a random drawing. Prior to enrolling in the program, admitted students must have a CPR certification, a health clearance, pass a background check, and complete a drug screening.

Made up of 77 to 78 credits, the program includes courses such as therapeutic exercise theory; therapeutic agents theory; lifespan development psychology; orthopedic management theory; neurology and development theory; neurologic management theory; advanced procedures theory; professional integration; and clinical development.

• Location: Ukiah, California
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE); Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Five semesters
• Estimated Tuition: In-state ($46 per credit); out-of-state ($341 per credit)

Provo College

In just 21 months, students can complete the online PTA program at Provo College. Although all coursework is offered online, supervised in-person clinical experiences are also required for this program. The clinical experiences are scattered all over Utah, allowing students to complete this part of the program at a location near them.

This program aims to produce graduates that are well-prepared for entry-level work as PTAs. For the past two years, over 95 percent of graduates have passed the NPTE exam on the first try. This program covers medical terminology, general psychology, therapeutic procedures, applied kinesiology, and more.

• Location: Provo, Utah
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE); 
• Expected Time to Completion: 21 months
• Estimated Tuition: General education ($678.30 per credit); program core ($785 per credit)

Those working to become a PT assistant with a high school diploma or GED typically take an average of two to three years to complete an associate’s degree program, successfully pass the National Physical Therapy Assistants Exam, and apply for their license. Those without a high school diploma or GED may take six to seven years to receive their diploma, complete an associate’s degree program, and complete exam and licensure requirements.

On the other hand, it typically takes an average of several months to become a PT aide for those with a high school diploma or GED. This includes the time to apply for jobs and receive any on-the-job training. There are no licensing or certification requirements.

Those interested in becoming a physical therapist assistant must obtain an associate’s degree from a CAPTE-accredited physical therapist assistant program, pass an exam, and apply for a license. State licensing boards may include additional requirements for licensure.

PT aides are not required to obtain a post-secondary degree, take additional examinations, or get licensed. Note that allowed job functions for PT aides may vary by state.

Generally, those pursuing a career as a physical therapist assistant or PT aide will need to do the following:

Step 1: Obtain Your High School Diploma or GED (Four Years)

Both PTAs and PT aides are required to obtain a high school diploma or GED. After completing high school, the next step for those interested in becoming a PTA is to apply for an associate’s degree from a CAPTE-accredited PTA program.

Those interested in becoming a PT aide can skip the remaining steps and dive into applying for jobs.

Step 2: Apply to a CAPTE-Accredited PTA Program (Three to Four Years)

Admissions requirements for programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) vary by school. However, most require the completion of prerequisite coursework in science, math, and English. Some schools may also require students to provide recommendations or observe a clinical setting for a certain number of hours.

Step 3: Complete a CAPTE-Accredited PTA Program (Two Years)

Once admitted, students will likely take coursework in physical therapy and general education. Coursework may include anatomy, clinical pathology, biomechanics, and more. Students must also complete supervised clinical education, typically consisting of 16 weeks of full-time, hands-on experience in a clinical setting.

Obtaining an associate’s degree from a PTA program typically takes two years to complete.

Step 4: Take the National Physical Therapy Assistants Examination (Less Than One Year)

Licensure requirements vary state by state. However, all states require passage of the National Physical Therapy Assistants Examination for physical therapist assistants. This exam is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).

Step 5: Apply for PTA Licensure (Less Than One Year)

Ready to apply for licensure? Future PTAs applying should check with the licensing board for the state they want to work in. Additional requirements may apply, such as passing a jurisprudence exam that tests knowledge of state-specific laws and regulations or obtaining first aid certifications like basic life support (BLS).

Step 6: Maintain PTA Licensure Requirements (Timeline Varies by Jurisdiction)

Congratulations! Those who passed their NPTE exam and successfully received their license may now work as PTAs. Note that most states require licensed PTAs to stay current on state laws and regulations, new trends, and treatments by completing several continuing education courses. License renewal is commonly conditioned on demonstrating the completion of these courses. Maintain licensure by meeting all continuing education requirements, as well as additional requirements that may be imposed by individual state licensing boards.

PTAs work under the direction and supervision of physical therapists to provide patient care and treatment. They commonly work with patients to help them recover from injuries and illnesses that affect their movement and mobility. Unlike PT aides, they are involved in the direct treatment of patients. Treatment options may include “exercise, massage, gait and balance training, and other therapeutic interventions.”

Alternatively, PT aides may perform clerical work, help move patients, and prepare and clean up treatment areas.

PTAs and PT aides spend a lot of time on their feet, setting up equipment and working with patients. They may also have to lift or help patients move. While most PTAs and PT aides work typical business hours, others may work nights and businesses depending on the office setting. For example, skilled nursing facilities may require them to work nights and weekends to support older patients who require long-term, chronic care as part of their day-to-day life.

While a PTA’s daily activities can vary by industry, an average day may include:

• Observing patient status and progress before, during, and post-treatment
• Noting and reporting patient status to the physical therapist
• Helping patients do specific exercises and providing treatment as part of their plan of care
• Providing patient care using manual treatments, such as stretching and massage
• Using supportive equipment and devices, such as exercise balls, to help patients
• Working with the patient and their friends and family on post-care activities and options

A typical day for a PT aide may consist of:

• Preparing treatment areas for patient use, including setting and cleaning up
• Cleaning treatment areas and moving equipment to maintain functionality 
• Assist with patient intake and other clerical duties
• Working with physical therapists and PTAs to observe and document patient progress and responses
• Coordinate with physicians’ offices and hospital personnel
• Transport patients to and from treatment areas

Each state and territory in the United States require PTAs to get licensed in the state they want to practice in. Those seeking licensure should apply and graduate from a CAPTE-accredited PTA degree program. They must also pass the National Physical Therapy Assistants Exam for PTAs, which is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.

Additional requirements may include a background check, a jurisprudence exam on state laws and practices, and proof of minimum age (typically 18). Furthermore, some states may require PTAs to take a certain number of continuing education courses or maintain certification in specific life skills, such as CPR. Always check with the appropriate state board for specific licensing requirements.

PT aides are not required to get licensed or maintain any certifications.

There are over 140,800 PTAs and PT aides currently employed in the United States. As one of the country’s fastest-growing careers, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2022) predicts the addition of 33,900 jobs between 2021 and 2031—a 24 percent increase, almost five times the expected growth among all occupations during the same decade (5 percent).

The demand for PTAs and PT aides will continue as the Baby Boomer generation ages and their risk of heart attack, stroke, and other mobility-related injuries increases. Furthermore, this generation is likely to live longer than previous generations and on average is active later in life. This makes the work of PTAs and PT aides, particularly in long-term and chronic care, essential to providing the highest quality of patient care and treatment. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2022), PTAs had an average annual salary of $64,510 in May 2022. Note the average annual salary differs by industry. PTAs working in home healthcare services have the highest average salary at $78,360 whereas those working in specialty (except psychiatric and substance abuse) hospitals had the lowest average salary at $69,600. Other industries include continuing care retirement communities and assisted living facilities for the elderly ($73,180); nursing care facilities ($72,800); and management of companies and enterprises ($71,700).

Here are the national percentile wages in this occupation (BLS May 2022):

Alternatively, the BLS (May 2022) reports that PT aides had an annual average salary of $33,210. PT aides working in home healthcare services had the highest annual salary at $52,210, followed by those working in the local government, who had an annual salary of $50,830. Other industries include nursing care facilities ($44,510); outpatient care centers ($39,890); and continuing care retirement communities and assisted living facilities for the elderly ($37,360).

Here are the national percentile wages in this occupation (BLS May 2022):

Here are a few alternatives to a career as a physical therapist assistant and PT aide. 

Become a Medical Assistant

Often, professionals looking to start a healthcare-related career start out as medical assistants. This entry-level job is essential to a smooth-running clinic or hospital. They divide their time between clinical responsibilities such as taking vital signs or documenting medical histories and administrative tasks such as answering the phone, booking appointments, or billing insurance.

• Typical Education: Certificate or associate’s
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: National Healthcareer Association, American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), National Center for Competency, American Medical Technologists

Become a Pharmacy Technician

Pharmacy technicians work under the supervision of a pharmacist to help dispense medications to patients. They have often completed both formal education and on-the-job training to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to perform this job.

• Typical Education: Certificate
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)

Become a Psychiatric Technician (Aide)

Support for individuals with mental health illnesses, developmental disabilities, or substance abuse issues is often provided by psychiatric technicians or aides. Professionals in this career have completed a certificate or associate’s degree. They can perform tasks such as administering prescribed medications, monitoring vital signs, leading group activities, assisting with admission or discharge, and providing medical care per doctor’s orders.

• Typical Education: Certificate or associate’s
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: American Association of Psychiatric Technicians (AAPT)

Bree Nicolello

Writer

Bree is an urban planner and freelance writer based in Seattle, WA. She has worked on land use and housing policy issues throughout the Pacific Northwest. She previously led Run Oregon Run, a nonprofit dedicated to helping Oregonians run for office and apply to boards and commissions. When not writing, she is lovingly tending to her cast iron pans.