Physical Therapist Assistant
Physical therapist assistants (PTA) are educated health care providers who assist the physical therapist (PT) in providing physical therapy services. They work closely with patients of all ages, as directed by a supervising PT, helping them manage movement difficulties caused by injury or disease, improve mobility, relieve pain, and prevent or limit permanent physical disability.
ECC's program of study for PTAs includes classroom instruction, theory and laboratory practice. In addition to PTA classes, students must take communications courses and science courses to assure a complete education. Although the associate of applied science degree (AAS) to become a physical therapist assistant is designed for immediate employment; many opportunities exist to include these courses in a bachelor's degree. See a counselor for complete information.
Note: Criminal background checks and drug testing are required for all health professions programs. Students demonstrating a positive background check or positive drug test will be denied admission to health professions programs. Students demonstrating a positive background check or positive drug test while enrolled in health professions programs will be dismissed from the program.
Admissions Procedures
A specialized admission procedure is required for the PTA program. Students must submit admission materials and meet admissions requirements before their application is considered for review. Review takes place in March for fall admission. Students may complete as many general education requirements as they wish before going through the application process. If the number of qualified candidates exceeds the number of seats available, admission to the program will be competitive and selective. All candidates must submit an official high school transcript or GED scores and official transcripts from other colleges/universities attended.
Requirements
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