ECPI University | AS in Physical Therapist Assistant
Physical Therapy professionals make a difference in people's lives, helping patients regain mobility - but more importantly - their independence. ECPI University's Associate of Science in Physical Therapy Assistant program trains students in various physical therapy modalities that are used to increase mobility, strength, and coordination in patients with back and neck injuries, amputations, neurological conditions, and other physical injuries. Find out more about the Associate of Science in Physical Therapy Assistant program here.
Official Program Name:
Associate of Science - Physical Therapy Assistant
School Offering Program:
ECPI University
Program Prerequisites:
Prior to admission, prospective students must have a high school diploma with a minimum 2.5 GPA or a GED with an average of 500. Applicants must also successfully complete ECPI University's assessment exam with the following minimum scores: 80 for reading, 55 for math, 60 for English, and 60 for science.
Program Description:
The Associate of Science in Physical Therapy Assistant program at ECPI University introduces students to anatomy and physiology, the musculoskeletal system, and kinesiology. Students have the opportunity to learn about medical and surgical conditions that require physical therapy and neurological rehabilitation. They also can learn about the impact of aging on muscles and bones, rehabilitation assessments, devices, and therapeutic exercises. The program includes four clinical internships and a Physical Therapist Assistant licensure review course.
Learning Format:
Online or On-Campus (please contact ECPI University for program availability at a location near you)
Total Credits Required:
73 credits
Financial Aid Available:
Eligible students could be able to receive financial aid in the form of grants, scholarships, and loans. Consult with ECPI University for more information about financial assistance.
Required Courses for an Associate of Science in Physical Therapy Assistant:
Program and course requirements are subject to change. Contact ECPI University to confirm the most accurate information before enrolling in a program.
Arts and Sciences Courses (20 credits)
- BIO 111: Anatomy & Physiology I with Terminology
- BIO 111L: Anatomy & Physiology I with Terminology Lab
- BIO 116: Anatomy & Physiology II with Terminology
- BIO 116L: Anatomy & Physiology II with Terminology Lab
- ENG 110: College Composition
- ENG 210: Critical Thinking
- MTH 120: College Mathematics
- PSY 105: Introduction to Psychology
Self Integration Courses (3 credits)
- COR 191: Career Orientation
- CSA 128: Computer Applications I
Core Curriculum (50 credits)
- PTA 101: Professional Issues for the Physical Therapist Assistant
- PTA 105: Musculoskeletal
- PTA 111: Introduction to Physical Therapy
- PTA 120: Kinesiology
- PTA 135: Rehabilitation I: Assessment
- PTA 136: Rehabilitation II: Therapeutic Modalities
- PTA 138: Rehabilitation IV: Devices
- PTA 139: Rehabilitation III: Therapeutic Exercise
- PTA 145: Medical & Surgical Conditions I
- PTA 146: Medical & Surgical Conditions II
- PTA 147: Medical & Surgical Conditions III
- PTA 205: Neurological Rehabilitation
- PTA 210: Motor Development and Aging
- PTA 250: Clinical Internship I
- PTA 251: Clinical Internship II
- PTA 252: Clinical Internship III
- PTA 253: Clinical Internship IV
- PTA 270: Physical Therapist Assistant Licensure Review
- PTA 280: Dimensions of Physical Therapy
Post-Graduation Opportunities:
Career Paths:
Graduates of the Associate of Science in Physical Therapy Assistant program are offered discount vouchers for the National Physical Therapy Exam for Physical Therapist Assistants. After passing the exam, students could find career opportunities as Physical Therapist Assistants (PTA) in places such as hospitals, rehabilitation clinics, extended care facilities, fitness centers, and sports training facilities. PTAs work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists to assist in the rehabilitation process of patients, teach patients exercises, and utilize therapeutic modalities to decrease pain and increase motion and function.
