Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is an Associate Degree program offered by Pima Medical Institute in Tucson, AZ. The program takes 5 semesters (75 weeks) to complete, with a total tuition of $41,363.
Program Overview
Objective: To develop in students the intrapersonal and professional skills needed to perform as competent entry-level physical therapy assistants through didactic instruction, hands-on laboratory practice, and clinical experiences. The curriculum prepares students to become integral members of the physical therapy health care team under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist. Curriculum content addresses anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, diseases and conditions, medical terminology, physical therapy interventions, data collection skills, treatment plans, administrative procedures, and ethics and laws governing the practice of physical therapy.
Graduates of this program at the Houston campus receive an Associate of Applied Science Degree, while graduates at other PMI campuses receive an Associate of Occupational Science Degree. All graduates are eligible to apply to take the National Physical Therapy Examination for Physical Therapist Assistants (NPTE-PTA), which is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).
At a Glance: Program Type: Associate Degree. Delivery Method: On-ground or hybrid. Semester Credits: 66.5 (69.5 at the Las Vegas campus, which includes HST 205 Nevada History and US Constitution, 3.0 credits). Program Hours: 1,586 (1,631 Las Vegas). Program Weeks: 75. Program Semesters: 5 (15 weeks per semester).
School Information
Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information
Tuition is $41,363.00. The published total cost is $45,078.00.
Admission Requirements and Process
Admissions Requirements: In addition to the Admissions requirements listed in the Prospective Students section of this catalog, an interview with the program director and/or faculty is required. Refer to the program specific Prospective Student Handout for more information.
Application Process
- 1Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form with your personal information and educational background.
- 2Submit TranscriptsProvide official high school transcripts or GED certificate. Some programs may require additional documentation.
- 3Financial AidComplete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal financial aid. Meet with a financial aid advisor to review your options.Complete FAFSA Application
- 4EnrollmentOnce accepted, complete enrollment paperwork, register for classes, and attend orientation.
Program Schedule
Delivery Method: On-ground or hybrid. Program Semesters: 5 (15 weeks per semester). Program Weeks: 75. Program Hours: 1,586 (1,631 Las Vegas).
Career Outcomes
How Do I Get Certified as a Physical Therapist Assistant After Graduation? Graduates of the program from this school are eligible to apply to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination (for physical therapist assistants).
What Are My Career Opportunities as a Physical Therapist Assistant? This associate degree program will prepare graduates to apply their skills in a variety of settings, such as: offices of physical therapists; hospitals; nursing care facilities; home healthcare services; outpatient clinics; school system.
Job Outlook: Demand for physical therapy is expected to increase in response to the healthcare needs of an aging population and individuals with chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall employment of physical therapist assistants and aides is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations.
School Information
Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information
Tuition is $41,363.00. The published total cost is $45,078.00.