Are you interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, but don't want to spend years in school? Becoming a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) may be the perfect career path for you. As a PTA, you'll work under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist to help patients recover from injuries, illnesses, and surgeries. In this article, we'll outline the 5 steps to become a Physical Therapy Assistant at Ivy Tech, one of the largest community colleges in the United States.
The Importance of Physical Therapy Assistants
Physical therapy assistants play a vital role in the healthcare system. They help patients improve mobility, manage pain, and achieve their rehabilitation goals. As the population ages, the demand for physical therapy services is expected to grow, making PTAs an essential part of the healthcare team.
Step 1: Meet the Admission Requirements
To become a Physical Therapy Assistant at Ivy Tech, you'll need to meet the admission requirements. These typically include:
- Earning a high school diploma or equivalent
- Completing prerequisite courses in anatomy, physiology, and algebra
- Having a minimum GPA of 2.5
- Submitting official transcripts and test scores (if applicable)
Step 2: Complete the Physical Therapy Assistant Program
Ivy Tech's Physical Therapy Assistant program is a two-year associate degree program that includes both classroom and clinical training. The program is designed to prepare students to work as PTAs under the supervision of licensed physical therapists. The curriculum includes courses in:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Kinesiology
- Biomechanics
- Physical therapy techniques
- Patient assessment and management
Step 3: Gain Clinical Experience
Clinical experience is an essential part of the Physical Therapy Assistant program at Ivy Tech. Students will participate in clinical internships, where they'll work directly with patients and physical therapists to gain hands-on experience. This experience will help students develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed as PTAs.
Step 4: Pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE)
After graduating from the Physical Therapy Assistant program at Ivy Tech, students will be eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE). The NPTE is a certification exam that tests students' knowledge and skills in areas such as anatomy, physiology, and physical therapy techniques. Passing the NPTE is required to become a certified Physical Therapy Assistant.
Step 5: Maintain Certification and Pursue Continuing Education
Once you've passed the NPTE and become a certified Physical Therapy Assistant, you'll need to maintain your certification through continuing education. This will ensure that you stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and best practices in physical therapy. Ivy Tech offers continuing education courses and workshops for PTAs, which can help you meet the certification requirements.
Gallery of Physical Therapy Assistants at Work
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Physical Therapy Assistants?
+The job outlook for Physical Therapy Assistants is excellent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of PTAs is projected to grow 32% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
How long does it take to become a Physical Therapy Assistant?
+The Physical Therapy Assistant program at Ivy Tech is a two-year associate degree program. After graduating, you'll be eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) to become a certified PTA.
What is the average salary for Physical Therapy Assistants?
+The average salary for Physical Therapy Assistants varies depending on location and experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for PTAs was $58,790 in May 2020.
By following these 5 steps, you can become a Physical Therapy Assistant at Ivy Tech and start a rewarding career in healthcare. Remember to stay focused, work hard, and pursue continuing education to maintain your certification and advance your career.