## Physical Therapy Assistant Programs Online
Physical therapy assistants (PTAs) are allied health professionals who work under the supervision of a physical therapist to provide physical therapy care to patients. PTAs help patients recover from injuries or illnesses by providing treatments such as range-of-motion exercises, massage, and electrical stimulation.
There are many different online physical therapy assistant programs available. These programs can be a great option for students who want to earn their PTA degree without having to attend classes on campus. Online PTA programs typically take two years to complete, and students must complete a clinical internship in order to graduate.
The cost of an online PTA program varies, but most programs cost around $30,000. Some programs offer financial aid, so students should be sure to research their options.
To be eligible to apply to an online PTA program, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and they must have completed prerequisite courses in anatomy, physiology, and biology. Students must also have a strong background in math and science.
The admissions process for online PTA programs varies from program to program. However, most programs require students to submit an application, transcripts, and test scores. Some programs may also require students to interview with a admissions committee.
Online PTA programs typically offer a variety of courses in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, pathology, and therapeutic modalities. Students also learn about the different types of physical therapy treatments, and they practice their skills on simulated patients.
In addition to coursework, students in online PTA programs must complete a clinical internship. The internship typically lasts for 100 hours, and students must complete it in a clinical setting under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist.
After completing their clinical internship, students are eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). The NPTE is a standardized exam that all PTAs must pass in order to become licensed.
Online PTA programs can be a great option for students who want to earn their PTA degree without having to attend classes on campus. These programs are flexible and affordable, and they offer students the opportunity to learn from experienced physical therapists.
## FAQ
**What is the difference between a physical therapist and a physical therapy assistant?**
A physical therapist is a licensed healthcare professional who diagnoses and treats injuries or illnesses that affect movement and function. Physical therapists use a variety of treatments, such as exercise, massage, and electrical stimulation, to help patients recover from their injuries or illnesses.
A physical therapy assistant is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of a physical therapist. PTAs help patients with their physical therapy exercises, and they also help to prepare patients for their treatments.
**What are the requirements to become a physical therapy assistant?**
To become a physical therapy assistant, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and you must have completed prerequisite courses in anatomy, physiology, and biology. You must also have a strong background in math and science.
In addition to the educational requirements, you must also be licensed to practice as a physical therapy assistant in your state. To become licensed, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
**What is the job outlook for physical therapy assistants?**
The job outlook for physical therapy assistants is expected to be very good in the coming years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the number of jobs for physical therapy assistants will grow by 31% between 2020 and 2030. This growth is due to the increasing number of people who are aging and who have chronic health conditions.
**What are the different types of jobs that physical therapy assistants can do?**
Physical therapy assistants can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They can also work in research settings or in education.
PTAs typically perform a variety of tasks, such as:
* Administering physical therapy treatments
* Preparing patients for their treatments
* Helping patients with their exercises
* Documenting patient progress
* Educating patients about their injuries or illnesses
**What is the salary for physical therapy assistants?**
The median annual salary for physical therapy assistants is $81,720. The salary range for PTAs varies depending on their experience, education, and the setting in which they work.
**How long does it take to become a physical therapy assistant?**
It takes two years to earn an associate degree in physical therapy assistant. After completing their degree, students must complete a clinical internship and pass the NPTE in order to become licensed.
