Physical Therapist Assistant AAS

Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) work as part of a team to provide physical therapy services under the direction and supervision of the physical therapist. PTAs assist the physical therapist in the treatment of individuals of all ages, from newborns to the very oldest, who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives. PTAs perform treatment procedures that involve the therapeutic use of heat, cold, electromagnetic radiations, traction, compression, water, massage, ultrasound and therapeutic exercise, and assist the physical therapist with evaluative procedures. PTAs provide care for people in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, schools, sports and fitness facilities, work settings, and nursing homes. The Weatherford College Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program leads to an associate in applied science degree and encompasses an approximate twenty-one month course of study. The curriculum balances general educational and technical courses with supervised clinicals at hospitals and private clinics. These combined experiences provide students with an opportunity for educational development as well as occupational competence. PTAs must graduate from a CAPTE-accredited PTA program and licensure is required in the State of Texas

Associate of Applied Science

51.0806