Becoming a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) is a rewarding career choice in the healthcare field. PTA’s play a vital role in helping patients recover from injuries and improve their physical function. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to become a PTA and build a successful career.
To become a licensed Physical Therapy Assistant, you will need to attend an accredited school. On-the-job training alone is generally not a sufficient pathway to become a PTA. Below we discuss each of the stages along the way to becoming a PTA in the USA.
In this Article
Graduate from high school
Your time at high school can create a strong foundation for success in a PTA program and provide the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in this healthcare profession. Here’s how you can prepare for a PTA career during your high school years:
Take as many prerequisite and recommended classes as possible;
- Science Courses: High school students interested in a PTA career should focus on taking science courses that provide a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, and biology. These subjects are fundamental to understanding the human body, its systems, and the principles of physical therapy.
- Mathematics: Basic math skills are important in healthcare settings for tasks such as calculating medication dosages or recording patient data accurately. Courses in algebra and statistics can be valuable.
- Chemistry: A chemistry course can help you understand chemical reactions and their effects on the body, which is relevant in certain aspects of physical therapy.
Other recommended courses;
- CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation): Consider obtaining certification in CPR. Many PTA programs require CPR certification as a prerequisite, and it’s a valuable skill for anyone working in healthcare.
- Medical Terminology: Enroll in a medical terminology course if available at your high school or in your community. Familiarity with medical terms will help you communicate effectively in the healthcare field.
- Anatomy and Physiology: If your high school offers anatomy and physiology courses, consider taking them. These courses provide in-depth knowledge about the human body and are directly relevant to a PTA career.
Make the most of your extracurricular time;
- Volunteer Work: Engage in volunteer activities in healthcare settings, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or nursing homes. This can provide you with valuable exposure to the healthcare field and show your commitment to helping others.
- Shadowing: If possible, shadow a Physical Therapist or Physical Therapy Assistant to gain insight into their day-to-day work. Shadowing experiences can help you understand the profession better and confirm your career choice.
Maintain a Strong GPA;
- While not all PTA programs have strict GPA requirements, maintaining a strong academic record in high school can improve your chances of admission to competitive PTA programs. It demonstrates your commitment to academic excellence.
Build Soft Skills;
- In addition to academic preparation, focus on developing important soft skills such as communication, empathy, teamwork, and problem-solving. These skills are essential for working in the healthcare field and providing effective patient care.
Enroll in an Accredited PTA Program
Attending an accredited program is a prerequisite to becoming a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA). Accreditation ensures that the program meets the educational standards required for PTA licensure and prepares you for a successful career in this healthcare profession.
Research Accredited Programs
Before enrolling in any program, you must research and identify accredited PTA programs. Accreditation is typically granted by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Here are some important considerations when researching programs:
- Location: Identify programs in your preferred geographic area. Consider your willingness to relocate if necessary.
- Program Duration: PTA programs are typically two years long. Be prepared for the time commitment.
- Financial Considerations: Evaluate the cost of tuition, fees, and associated expenses. Consider financial aid options or scholarships that may be available.
- Admission Requirements: Review the admission requirements of each program, including prerequisite courses, GPA expectations, and any additional admission criteria. Ensure you meet these requirements before applying.
- Clinical Opportunities: Assess the clinical experience opportunities offered by each program. Clinical experience is a critical component of PTA education.
You can find a list of CAPTE-accredited programs by state here.
Apply to PTA Programs
Once you have identified accredited PTA programs that meet your criteria, follow these steps to apply:
- Carefully review the application deadlines for each program, and ensure you submit your applications on time.
- Prepare your application materials, which may include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and any additional documents required by the program.
- Pay the application fees as required by each program.
Complete the PTA Program
Once you have been accepted into a PTA program, you will embark on your formal education in physical therapy assisting. During your program, you will:
- Take a variety of courses related to anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, therapeutic techniques, patient care, and more.
- Gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations in healthcare settings.
- Participate in lab work, lectures, and practical exercises to build the skills necessary for the role of a PTA.
- Develop problem-solving skills, communication skills, and the ability to work effectively in a healthcare team.
Meet Clinical Education Requirements
Clinical education is an integral part of PTA programs. You will work under the supervision of experienced PT’s and PTA’s in real-world healthcare settings, applying the knowledge and skills you’ve learned in the classroom.
Fulfill Certification Requirements
Certification requirements for becoming a certified PTA involve specific steps and examinations to ensure that you meet the necessary standards of competence and professionalism.
Before you can pursue certification as a PTA, you must graduate from an accredited Physical Therapy Assistant program. The next essential step in the certification process is to pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTA’s. This standardized exam evaluates your knowledge and skills in physical therapy and assesses your readiness to practice as a PTA. Here’s what you need to know about the NPTE for PTA’s:
- Registration: Register for the NPTE for PTA’s through the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). This involves submitting an application and paying the associated exam fee.
- Eligibility: To be eligible for the NPTE, you typically need to have graduated from an accredited PTA program.
- Exam Format: The NPTE for PTA’s is a computer-based exam. It consists of multiple-choice questions that assess your understanding of physical therapy concepts and your ability to apply them in clinical situations.
- Preparation: Preparing for the NPTE is crucial. Many graduates enroll in review courses or use study materials to review the content covered in their PTA program.
- Passing Score: You need to achieve a passing score on the NPTE to move on to the next step in the certification process.
In addition to passing the national certification exams outlined above you may also be required to sit a state specific jurisprudence exam. Check with your state for specific certification and licensing requirements.
Licensing and Finding Employment
After completing your accredited PTA program and passing the necessary certification exams, you must secure a state license to practice as a PTA. Each state has its own licensing requirements, but the following steps are common:
- Research State Requirements: First, research your specific state’s licensing requirements. Requirements can vary, so it’s important to understand what your state mandates. Check with your state’s physical therapy licensing board for detailed information.
- Submit an Application: Complete and submit the state licensure application to your state’s licensing board. Be prepared to pay the required fees.
- Provide Supporting Documents: You’ll need to provide supporting documentation, including your transcripts, proof of graduation from an accredited PTA program, and your NPTE scores. Some states may also require background checks or fingerprinting.
- Pass State Examinations (if Applicable): Some states have additional state-specific examinations or requirements. Make sure to fulfill these as needed.
- Stay Informed: Stay up-to-date with any changes in your state’s licensure requirements, as regulations can change over time.
Job Search
Once you have obtained your state license, you can begin your job search. PTA’s work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, schools, and home health. Consider the following steps in your job search:
- Determine Your Preferred Work Setting: Think about the type of healthcare setting that aligns with your career goals and interests. Different settings may offer distinct opportunities and challenges. For example, if you’re interested in pediatric care, schools or pediatric clinics may be a suitable choice.
- Prepare Your Resume and Cover Letter: Create a professional resume and cover letter that highlight your education, clinical experience, and relevant skills. Tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job positions you’re applying for.
- Utilize Online Job Boards: Many job opportunities for PTA’s are listed on online job boards, such as Indeed, LinkedIn, and healthcare-specific websites. Use these platforms to search for open positions in your desired geographic area.
- Network: Connect with professionals in the field, including Physical Therapists, fellow PTA’s, and alumni from your program. Networking can help you discover job opportunities and gain insights into the job market.
- Apply to Multiple Positions: Apply to multiple job positions to increase your chances of securing employment. Be open to entry-level positions, especially if you’re a recent graduate.
- Prepare for Interviews: Once you receive interview offers, take the time to prepare for interviews. Practice answering common interview questions and be ready to discuss your qualifications and why you’re interested in the position.
- Consider Contract or Travel Positions: Contract and travel PTA’s often have short-term assignments in different locations. These positions can provide valuable experience and may lead to permanent positions.
Continuing Professional Development Requirements
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is an important prerequisite for license renewal for most states. Each state may have specific CPD requirements, so be prepared to research and adhere to your state’s guidelines.
We recommend you keep detailed records of all your CPD activities, including the dates, titles, and providers of courses, as well as any additional learning experiences. Having well-organized records will make it easier to demonstrate your compliance with CPD requirements if required.
It is prudent to plan your professional development activities in advance and be aware of your state’s renewal cycle for licensure. This proactive approach ensures that you meet your CPD requirements without last-minute stress.
Understand State-Specific CPD Requirements
Your state’s physical therapy licensing board sets the specific CPD requirements that PTA’s must meet to maintain their licensure. These requirements can vary from state to state. Common CPD requirements may include:
- A specified number of continuing education units (CEUs) to be completed within a set time frame (e.g., annually or every two years).
- The types of CEUs that are acceptable (e.g., courses related to physical therapy, clinical practice, or specific areas of specialization).
- Any mandatory courses, such as ethics or jurisprudence that must be included in your CPD.
To understand your state’s requirements, visit the website of your state’s physical therapy licensing board or contact them directly for the most current and accurate information.
You can find contact details for your state licensing board by selecting your state from the list below;