The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is a skilled health technician who works under the supervision of a Physical Therapist. Treatments provided by the PTA include exercises for increasing strength, endurance, coordination and range of motion; the use of heat, cold, electricity, sound and water to relieve pain and stimulate muscle activity; instruction in activities of daily living and the use of assistive devices such as walkers, crutches and wheelchairs. Work settings include hospital, nursing home, rehabilitation centers, schools and private practice.

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at BCC is not designed as a transfer program to an upper division Physical Therapy Program.

Clinical Education is a necessary component of the program. Clinical Education may be out of town, some distance from their home, and students are responsible for their own housing and transportation. Because of the need to schedule large blocks of time for the clinical education courses, it may not be possible for students to pursue this program on a part-time basis.

SEQUENCE OF COURSES: The following coursework must be successfully completed to earn the A.A.S. degree in Physical Therapist Assistant: (Note: courses are sequential and have pre-requisites.)