Physical Therapist Assistant
Degree and Certificate Requirements
2008-09 Catalog

Associate of Applied Science Degree
A Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is a health care provider working under the direction of a Physical Therapist. The PTA is involved in the treatment of individuals with muscular, skeletal, cardiopulmonary and nervous system disorders. The PTA may also be involved in injury prevention or programs specifically targeted toward individual or group wellness. The PTA is able to provide physical therapy services as specified in a care plan developed by a Physical Therapist. Treatment program implementation may include: therapeutic exercise, ambulation training, activities of daily living and administration of physical agents such as heat and cold.

All students must maintain current CPR and First Aid certification. Additionally, students must maintain professional liability insurance coverage and are required to complete a series of Hepatitis B vaccinations. The approximate cost of uniform and vaccination requirements is $175.00. Nominal expenses are incurred during each clinical affiliation for travel within the metro area.

The Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) of the American Physical Therapy Association has granted full accreditation to the PTA program at Arapahoe Community College. CAPTE can be contacted at 1111 N. Fairfax Street, Alexandria, VA 22314-1488, 1.800.999.2782 or via e-mail at accreditation@apta.org.

The program is five semesters in length with a summer term following the first year. Upon successful completion, the graduate is awarded an Associate of Applied Science degree.

Admissions Requirements:

1. Contact the Health, Math, Science and Engineering Division Office (Room A2000, 303.797.5991).
2. Applications are accepted beginning February 1 each year. Please refer to the PTA Program Information for application and ACCUPLACER placement scores. You can contact the Division Office by phone 303.797.5991 for a copy of the PTA Program Information.
3. Individuals with related degrees and training (Athletic training, military trained PT Techs/ Specialists) should contact Paula Provence, paula.provence@arapahoe.edu, for information regarding possible transfer credit and Credit for Prior Learning Options.
4. All major, general education and other courses required for this degree must be completed with a “C” or better to meet graduation requirements.

Students planning to transfer their speech credit to another institution should complete COM 115.

Course Descriptions | Degree Requirements