Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
Degrees & Certificates:
Due to the high volume of PTA applications for 2010, we are NOT accepting late applications.
Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs), under the supervision of Physical Therapists, utilize therapeutic exercise, functional training, adaptive devices (including prosthetics), and physical agents (water, electricity, sound, light, heat and cold) to restore, maintain, and promote optimal physical function. (See PTA Department Web Site.)
Physical Therapist Assistants work with a wide range of individuals who have physical limitations or disabilities resulting from injury, disease, or surgery.
PTAs are employed in a wide variety of settings that include:
- hospitals and rehabilitation facilities
- outpatient clinics or offices
- skilled nursing, extended care, or convalescent facilities
- home health agencies
- hospices
- school systems
- sports therapy clinics
- athletic facilities
The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Green River Community College awards an Associate in Applied Science degree and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education. The program prepares graduates for immediate employment. Studies in the program include anatomy and physiology, technical physical therapy courses and practical clinical experiences in area health care facilities.
Employment Outlook
The demand for physical therapist assistants is strong
in the Puget Sound area and nationwide. The Bureau of
Labor Statistics projects a 44% increase in the need
for physical therapist assistants this decade. Starting
salaries are variable. In the Seattle/Tacoma area an
average range is $20–$25 per hour, plus benefits.
When can new students apply?
The Physical Therapist Assistant courses begin fall
quarter of each year and must be taken in sequence.
Go to
Admissions on PTA Program site.
Thirty-two (32) students will be accepted into the Physical Therapist Assistant program each year. Application forms are available online in late fall quarter or by calling the Career & Advising Office at (253) 833-9111 ext. 2641.
Special fees and requirements
Go to
Costs and Requirements on PTA Program site.
Does the program transfer to four-year schools?
The classes for the Physical Therapist Assistant program
are not designed to transfer. Students who seek physical
therapist degrees should pursue a Bachelor’s degree
and then attend a physical therapist program.
Special program notes
Green River’s Physical Therapist Assistant program offers
you the opportunity to do the following:
- Receive hands-on clinical experience in a variety of settings
- Develop an ongoing collaborative relationship with faculty and fellow students
- Enhance your personal leadership and group interaction skills
- Become skilled in an exciting and rewarding health care occupation
- Receive an Associate in Applied Science degree for Physical Therapist Assistant that is accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association
Program Admissions
Prospective students must apply to the PTA program.
Go to
Admissions on PTA Program site.
The Physical Therapist Assistant courses must be taken in sequence. Related instruction requirements should be taken prior to entry to the program.
Selection process
Go to
Admissions on PTA Program site.
Course Descriptions:
For course descriptions, please see our Course Catalog.
Contact Information:
- Education Planning Services
Extension 2641 - Barbara Brucker
Extension 4343 - Donette Parry
Extension 4489
Information Sessions
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