Physical Therapist Assistant (Associate of Applied Science) - Memphis

Program offered at: Memphis, Tennessee

Physical Therapist Assistant (Associate of Applied Science) Mission Statement

The program provides students with diverse training in the classroom and laboratory as well as real-world experiences. Students will acquire the theoretical knowledge, technical skills, critical reasoning, and professional behaviors necessary to obtain entry-level positions as physical therapist assistants. The program prepares students to successfully complete the National Physical Therapist Assistant Examination (NPTAE).

Learning Objectives / Instructional Outcomes

The program includes current practice and include real-world clinical experiences, preparing the graduate to perform selected interventions and data collection, as well as assess the patient’s/client’s safety and response to interventions. Program graduates will recognize, respect, and act with consideration for individual differences, values, preferences, and expressed needs. Additionally, PTA graduates will effectively communicate with other members of the healthcare delivery team, interact with members of the patient’s/client’s family and caregivers, and work cooperatively with other healthcare providers. In collaboration with the Physical Therapist, PTA graduates will participate in the education of other healthcare providers, patients/clients and their families or primary caregivers, as well as the community.

Career Overview

Physical Therapist Assistants (PTA) provide physical therapy services under the direction and supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist. The PTA implements the Physical Therapist’s plan of care, assessing patient status and modifying selected interventions to progress and protect the safety and comfort of the patient. The PTA helps people of all ages who have impairments that limit movement, function, work and recreational activities. The PTA works in a variety of settings, including hospitals, inpatient rehabilitation facilities, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health, skilled nursing facilities, schools, sports facilities, and more. The PTA provides a variety of physical therapy techniques as they carry out the Physical Therapist’s plan of care for the patient, including therapeutic exercise, functional training, soft tissue mobilization, and physical modalities, such as electrotherapy and ultrasound. The PTA may also assist the Physical Therapist in injury prevention, fitness, and wellness-oriented programs for a healthier and a more active lifestyle. To work as a PTA, an individual must graduate from a PTA program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), must apply and be accepted as a licensed/certified PTA applicant, and must pass the National Physical Therapist Assistant Examination (NPTAE) and, if required by the state, the state jurisprudence examination. Other requirements vary from state to state, according to physical therapy practice acts or state regulations governing physical therapy.

In order to graduate from the Physical Therapist Assistant (Associate of Applied Science) program, students must successfully complete the following curriculum: