Physical Therapist  Assistant Program

Within the discipline of physical therapy, the profession of physical therapist assistant has emerged as an integral part.  The physical therapist assistant plays a key role in a patient's recovery from an injury or disease of the neurological or musculoskeletal systems of the body.

Physical therapist assistants work under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist to use electrical, mechanical, and thermal modalities; assist in gait training; instruct in strengthening and coordination exercises; and improve work, sports, or activities of daily living skills.  They work in hospitals, outpatient care clinics, rehabilitation facilities, home health agencies, nursing homes, and school systems.

The curriculum is designed in a five semester sequence, incorporating both academic and clinical coursework.  Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate is awarded an Associate in Applied Science Degree as a physical therapist assistant and is eligible to apply for the National Physical Therapist Assistant Examination.

Academic Requirements

In order to remain in good academic standing in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program, you must receive a "C" (2.0) or better in each course included in the curriculum.

Accreditation

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Shawnee State University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.

PLEASE NOTE:  Clinical practicum are contracted training sites located throughout the United States.  Most clinicals require traveling less than 30-60 minutes.  It is recommended that one practicum be two or more hours away from the campus.  Only those students who have been officially accepted into the program or who have received approval by the department chairperson may take the courses beginning with the PTAT prefix.