Physical Therapist Assistant
A physical therapist assistant helps improve patient movement and manage patient pain. These compassionate individuals often work with patients after injury or surgery. Most students are able to earn an Associate in Applied Science degree in this program in under three years.
What You Will Learn
In Central Piedmont’s entry-level program, you will learn how to treat patients in a variety of ways. These include exercise, soft tissue mobilization, gait and balance training, and other techniques. You will be able to demonstrate exercises and assist patients with mobility to help them return to their prior level of function.
You'll understand how to work with a physical therapist, as well as how to communicate with other healthcare professionals, patients, and caregivers. This program offers classroom learning, observation, and plenty of hands-on training.
Upon graduation, you will be eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE). This allows you to become a licensed physical therapist assistant.
Why Choose Central Piedmont
Real-world work begins almost immediately when you are a Central Piedmont student. In the second fall semester and then once more in the second spring semester, you will participate in clinical education courses. During these courses, you will spend 40 hours a week in clinical facilities. Supervision will come from a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant.
The physical therapist assistant program at Central Piedmont is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
The Details
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Costs and Aid
Besides regular tuition, some courses in this program have laboratory fees. Other costs include textbooks, a physical exam, and immunizations.
Physical Therapist Assistant Scholarships
Students interested in the Physical Therapist Assistant program may consider applying for the following scholarship:
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Locations and Course Delivery Methods
Classes for the physical therapy assistant program are delivered in several ways:
- In-person classes and labs are held on the Central Campus.
- Some classes are available online.
- Clinical rotations will take place at various locations throughout North and South Carolina.
Program courses are only available during the day on weekdays and are not available over the summer.
Courses available and their schedules can change each semester. Check the physical therapist assistant program options, courses, eligibility, and requirements each semester.
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Application Points
Learn more about how points are awarded and calculated during the application process.
Information Session
If you decide to apply for this program, you'll be required to complete the information session process.
Review the virtual information sessionPhysical Therapist Assistant Career FAQs
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How do I become a licensed physical therapist assistant?
Your will first need to earn an Associated in Applied Science degree. You can learn how to get one at Central Piedmont here.
You are then eligible for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) in the state where you wish to work.
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What is the difference between a licensed physical therapist assistant and a physical therapist?
Assistants:
- Obtain an associate degree
- Become licensed by taking the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE)
- Work under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist
- Can earn advanced proficiency pathways
Therapists:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree
- Complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE); programs usually last three years
- Become licensed by taking the National Physical Therapy Exam
- Can complete a residency, fellowship, or board certification
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What are the responsibilities of a physical therapist assistant?
Among other duties, a physical therapist assistant:
- Implements the physical therapist’s treatment plan
- Collects patient data and information on range of motion, mobility, etc.
- Demonstrates exercises for patients
- Performs stretches on patients
- Helps track patient progress
- Addresses questions and communicates with the physical therapist and healthcare team
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Where do physical therapist assistants work?
Physical therapists can work in many locations. They may work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outpatient orthopedic clinics, school systems, geriatric healthcare facilities, and home health agencies.
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How much does a physical therapist assistant make?
For up-to-date information on physical therapist assistant salaries, please visit Central Piedmont's Career Coach.
Physical Therapist Assistant Careers and Average Salaries
Visit Central Piedmont’s Career Coach or the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for detailed physical therapist assistant career requirements and opportunities, salary information, and job openings.
Career CoachAccreditation
The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Central Piedmont Community College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE):
3030 Potomac Ave.
Suite 100
Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085
telephone: 703.706.3245
email: accreditation@apta.org
website: capteonline.org
If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 704-330-6958 or email healthsciences@cpcc.edu.
Concerns or Complaints About the Program
Concerns or complaints about the Physical Therapist Assistant program can be directed to:
Roschella Stephens, PT, MS
Associate Dean Therapy and Acute Care
Central Piedmont Community College
P.O. Box 35009
Belk/Health Careers Building
Charlotte, NC 28235-5009
Email: Roschella.Stephens@cpcc.edu
Phone: 704-330-6746
Comments must be provided in writing and signed by the author. Anonymous submissions will not be acknowledged, nor will written comments provided on behalf of an anonymous source. Comments received via phone or email will be directed to submit this form (PDF).
Complaints may also be filed directly to the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) at:
3030 Potomac Ave. Suite 100
Alexandria, VA 22305-3085
Phone: 703-706-3245
E-mail: accreditation@apta.org
Website
*No retaliation will occur by either the PTA program or college due to a complaint being filed.