Physical Therapist Assistant, AAS [PT-AAS, 72 Total Credits]

LIMITED ENTRY PROGRAM

This is a limited-entry program. Some of these courses are program prerequisites and MUST be completed before a student is considered eligible for entry into the Program. Students MUST attend a Health Programs orientation and meet with a Health Programs advisor for additional advisement.

DESCRIPTION

Upon successful completion of the program, students will receive the AAS degree in Physical Therapist Assistant. This entitles the graduate to take the national licensure examination. Successful passing of this examination and completion of the state licensure requirements will allow the graduate to function as a licensed physical therapist assistant (PTA). The program integrates classroom and laboratory experiences into a structurally sound curriculum that develops the competencies required to function as a safe, ethical, and competent PTA. Students are required to complete three clinical education affiliation experiences in hospitals and clinics affiliated with the program. Requirements for participation in these clinical experiences include having: 1) current CPR and First Aid cards; 2) a current personal health insurance policy; 3) a yearly negative TB test; 4) the appropriate immunizations; 5) a satisfactory physical examination; 6) drug and alcohol screen; and 7) background check. The program is a limited-entry program and students considering applying to the program MUST attend a health programs orientation and meet with a health programs advisor for additional counseling. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 1111 North Fairfax St., Alexandria, VA 22314, (703) 706-3245, www.capteonline.org, email: accreditation@apta.org.

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

1. Practice abilities and critical thinking skills necessary to carry out the physical therapy plan of care.

2. Provide competent, safe, and ethical patient care under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist.

3. Cultivate effective, respectful, and culturally sensitive communication and interpersonal skills.

4. Use critical thinking skills to assess patient response to treatment interventions.

5. Formulate educational plans for the patient, family, other providers, and the community related to physical therapy interventions.

6. Critique self-assessment and self-directed lifelong learning.