Program Description
SFCC offers a two-year program which includes study in anatomy and physiology, social science, technical physical therapy courses and practical clinical experience in area health care facilities affiliated with the college. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). The technical courses for the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program are not designed to transfer to four-year schools.
Physical therapist assistants duties include: a) designing exercise programs and treatments that are within the plan of care proposed by the physical therapist b) training patients to use special equipment that will make life easier; c) applying equipment such as electrical stimulation and ultrasound which decrease pain and increase functions; and d) keeping records and reporting to the physical therapist on the patient's progress.
Physical therapist assistants work with all ages and are employed in a wide variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, pediatric facilities or school systems, private physical therapy clinics, home health care agencies, and extended care facilities. A national licensing examination is required for most states in order to practice as a physical therapist assistant.
Admission Requirements:
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Completion of the physical therapist assistant program application booklet which is available at the SFCC counseling center. Applications are accepted during the winter quarter preceding fall quarter entry into the program.
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Appropriate placement scores in assessment tests for ENGL& 101 and Math.
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Preferably a minimum of 2.0 in BIOL& 241
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Documentation of either paid or volunteer experience in a medical setting (preferably physical therapy).
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Current immunizations, drug screening and Washington State Patrol criminal background check.
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Essential requirements needed for the profession which include communication skills, cognitive demands, physical skills and behavioral, social and professional skills are discussed in greater detail in the Program Information Booklet located on our website.
The PTA program incorporates a selective process for admission. This process uses a point system based on coursework and experience as outlined in the application. Please be aware that the completion of all prerequisites does not ensure admission to the program.