A Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) AAS degree prepares students to work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists to assist patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, and chronic conditions. This two-year program combines classroom instruction, laboratory training, and clinical experiences. Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to obtain licensure and enter the workforce.
7 Things You Need to Know About PTA Degrees
1. What to Expect from a PTA AAS Program
PTA students develop skills in patient care, therapeutic exercise, mobility training, and physical modalities such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation. They also learn communication, ethics, and documentation practices vital to clinical environments. Programs follow a cohort model, requiring full-time attendance across four to six consecutive semesters.
Clinical education is a core component. Students complete unpaid rotations in hospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, and rehabilitation centers. These placements allow students to apply their knowledge under the supervision of licensed professionals.
2. Curriculum Breakdown
A typical PTA AAS degree consists of 66 to 79 total credit hours, divided into:
General Education (22–30 credit hours)
- English Composition
- College Algebra or Statistics
- General Psychology
- Anatomy and Physiology I and II with Labs
- Medical Terminology
- Humanities or Fine Arts elective
PTA Core Courses (44–49 credit hours)
- Introduction to Physical Therapy
- Functional Anatomy and Kinesiology
- Therapeutic Exercise I & II
- Pathophysiology
- Rehabilitation Techniques
- Physical Agents and Modalities
- Neurological Disorders
- Patient Care Skills
- Clinical Practicums I–III
- Professional Issues and Seminar
Many institutions also require a capstone or seminar course to prepare students for licensure and employment.
3. Clinical Training and Licensure
Students complete 12–16 weeks of full-time clinical education, often spread across multiple externships. Clinical hours are typically unpaid and range from 240 to 360 hours per rotation. After graduation, students are eligible to take the NPTE for licensure. Most states require passing this exam to practice.
For more information on licensure requirements, visit the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.
4. Admissions Requirement
Most PTA programs are competitive and require a separate application in addition to general college admission. Common admissions criteria include:
- Minimum GPA: 2.5 to 3.0
- Completion of prerequisites with a grade of “C” or higher
- Anatomy & Physiology I & II with labs
- English Composition
- Medical Terminology
- College-level Math
- Introductory Psychology
- Observation Hours: 10–80 hours in both inpatient and outpatient settings
- Background check and drug screening
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
- Attendance at a program information session
Some programs, like those at St. Philip’s College and Loma Linda University, require TEAS test scores or interviews as part of the selection process.
5. Typical Program Costs
Program costs vary by institution and residency status. Below is a sample estimate:
Santa Fe College (Florida Residents)
- Tuition (74 credits): $7,901
- Lab Fees: $1,051
- Books and Supplies: $950–$1,500
- Background Check, Immunizations, CPR: ~$1,500
- Licensing Fees and Exams: ~$900
- Total Estimated Cost: $13,300 (Florida residents)
Santa Fe PTA Program Info
Loma Linda University (Private School)
- Tuition and Fees (15 months): ~$37,898
- Living and Personal Expenses: ~$25,000+
- Average Student Debt: ~$33,800
Loma Linda PTA Program Info
Scholarships, grants, and work-study positions are available at most institutions. Visit the APTA Financial Solutions Center for funding options.
6. Accreditation and Certification
PTA AAS programs must be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Graduates of CAPTE-accredited programs are eligible for licensure in all 50 states.
Notable programs with CAPTE accreditation include:
7. Job Outlook and Career Options
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for physical therapist assistants is projected to grow 27% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than average. PTAs may work in:
- Hospitals
- Outpatient clinics
- Nursing homes
- Rehabilitation centers
- Home healthcare
- Sports medicine settings
Salaries range from $58,000 for entry-level roles to over $100,000 with experience and advancement. Many PTAs pursue roles in healthcare administration, teaching, or advanced certifications through the APTA.
Top Schools
Choosing the right Physical Therapist Assistant program is essential for starting a career in rehabilitative healthcare. The accredited PTA programs featured below offer a mix of classroom learning, clinical experience, and flexible study options. Whether you’re seeking hands-on training in a campus setting or the convenience of online components, these schools provide clear pathways to licensure and employment.
From two-year degrees to accelerated tracks, each program equips students with the technical skills and clinical knowledge needed to support licensed physical therapists in a variety of healthcare environments. Explore key details on curriculum, admissions, tuition, and career outcomes to find a PTA program that fits your goals.
| School | Location | Program Length | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Philip’s College | San Antonio, TX | 2 years | 98% graduation rate and 100% job placement within one year |
| Santa Fe College | Gainesville, FL | 4 semesters (full-time) | Blend of online, on-campus, and clinical formats |
| Ivy Tech Community College | IN – Crown Point, Muncie, Sellersburg | 69.5 credits (5 semesters) | 130+ employer partnerships and strong transfer options |
| LaGuardia Community College | Long Island City, NY | 2.5–3 years | Structured pre-clinical and competitive entry phases |
| Lone Star College–Montgomery | The Woodlands, TX | 101 weeks (6 semesters) | High job demand and strong transfer support |
| Loma Linda University | Loma Linda, CA | 15 months (5 quarters) | Ranked #1 PTA program by College Factual |
| Albany State University | Albany, GA | 27 credits pre-req + 4 semesters | Low-cost program with 40-hour observation requirement |
| Athens Technical College | Athens, GA | 79 credit hours | Three clinical education components built into curriculum |
| Clarkson College | Omaha, NE | 2 years (traditional); 16 months (hybrid) | Hybrid track ranked #1 by Nurse.org in 2024 |
| Elgin Community College | Elgin, IL | 2 years (5 semesters) | 100% licensure pass rate for 15 consecutive years |
St. Philip’s College
San Antonio, Texas
The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program at St. Philip’s College is designed to prepare students to work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, sports-medicine facilities, and pediatric clinics. This comprehensive program blends classroom instruction with hands-on lab work and clinical experiences. Students gain practical skills in therapeutic exercises, rehabilitation techniques, electrotherapy, and more.
Clinical education involves full-time commitments of 40+ hours per week for 5 to 7 weeks, and may require travel outside of San Antonio. All courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or better. Prior to applying, students are encouraged to complete 40 hours of volunteer or observation experience in at least two different physical therapy settings and are recommended to earn a 75 or higher on the ATI TEAS exam. Core prerequisites include courses in anatomy, physiology, English composition, and college-level math.
Program Length, Cost, and Outcomes
The PTA program culminates in an Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant, and prepares graduates to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination. The program boasts impressive student outcomes, including a 98% average graduation rate over the past two years and a 95.9% two-year licensure pass rate. Additionally, the program reports a 100% two-year employment rate, with all graduates seeking employment securing positions within one year.
Santa Fe College
https://www.sfcollege.edu/academics/programs/3318.html
Gainesville, FL
Comprehensive, Hands-On Training for Aspiring PTAs
The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program at Santa Fe College is a full-time, four-semester program that equips students with the essential skills to assist licensed physical therapists in rehabilitative care. The curriculum spans 74 credit hours—47 from technical core courses and 27 from prerequisites—and includes classroom instruction, laboratory experiences, and clinical internships at local and regional hospitals.
Courses are delivered in various formats (on-campus, online, and virtual), and students attend full-time Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The program is academically intensive and emphasizes practical, hands-on experience in the field. Applicants must meet specific prerequisite course and GPA requirements, complete background screenings, and meet program performance standards related to physical, communication, and critical thinking abilities.
Tuition, Costs, and Career Outlook
Tuition for Florida residents is approximately $13,306, while out-of-state students can expect to pay $33,740 including fees, textbooks, uniforms, background screenings, and licensure costs. Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs through the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy. However, the program currently only meets licensure requirements for the state of Florida, so students intending to practice elsewhere should verify requirements in their intended state.
Ivy Tech Community College
Lake County, Muncie, Sellersburg
Flexible, Affordable Pathway to a PTA Career
Ivy Tech’s Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant program is a structured, affordable route to a career in physical therapy support. The program spans 69.5 credit hours over one prerequisite semester followed by four program semesters. Students complete 25 credits of general education, 43.5 program-specific credits, and 1 student success course. Ivy Tech’s PTA program not only prepares students to enter the workforce after graduation, but also equips them to take the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for licensure. With over 130 affiliated employers across Indiana, graduates have strong job placement potential and may even pursue leadership roles in various therapy settings.
Transfer Opportunities and Campus Locations
Beyond immediate employment, Ivy Tech’s program also supports students planning to pursue a bachelor’s degree, offering a cost-effective option to begin their education—potentially saving over $10,000 by completing the first two years at Ivy Tech before transferring. While admission into a transfer institution isn’t automatic, transfer advocates are available to help guide the process.
The PTA program is available at three Ivy Tech campuses across Indiana: Lake County (Crown Point), Muncie, and Sellersburg, offering regional flexibility for students. Whether aiming to start a healthcare career quickly or continue on to a four-year degree, Ivy Tech provides a practical and supportive educational experience.
LaGuardia Community College
https://www.laguardia.edu/majors/physical-therapist-assistant/
Long Island City, NY
Structured Pathway and Program Requirements
LaGuardia Community College offers a rigorous Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Physical Therapist Assistant, designed to prepare ethical and skilled rehabilitation professionals. The program consists of two phases: a pre-clinical phase, where students complete general education and four key courses, and a technical phase, which is entered through a competitive candidacy process. Students must maintain at least a 2.5 GPA in key courses and follow a structured application process to advance. The full program can typically be completed in 2.5 to 3 years, depending on student progression and course scheduling. Tuition is set according to CUNY rates, offering a cost-effective pathway to entering the healthcare field.
Curriculum Outcomes and Career Opportunities
The curriculum trains students in manual therapy techniques, mobility training, physical assessment, and the use of therapeutic equipment. Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to become licensed PTAs. Career opportunities include roles in hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools, and home care settings. While the program is designed for direct employment rather than transfer, some graduates pursue bachelor’s degrees in health services administration, exercise physiology, or healthcare management. For those interested in long-term advancement, the program can serve as a stepping stone toward careers in physical therapy, public health, or healthcare leadership.
Lone Star College–Montgomery
https://www.lonestar.edu/programs-of-study/physical-therapist-aas.htm
The Woodlands, Texas
Program Structure, Curriculum, and Tuition Benefits
The Physical Therapist Assistant Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program at Lone Star College–Montgomery is a two-year, 101-week consecutive program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in physical therapy support. The program consists of 66 credit hours, including general education, science, and technical PTA courses. Coursework spans six semesters, covering subjects like Anatomy & Physiology, Rehabilitation Techniques, Neurology, and multiple clinical experiences. Tuition is affordable compared to other health programs, and the school boasts low faculty-to-student ratios, high board exam pass rates, and strong employment demand for graduates. Successful completion satisfies requirements to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE), the national licensure exam for PTAs.
Outcomes, Career Paths, and Transfer Opportunities
Graduates are well-prepared for careers in acute care hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, outpatient clinics, and home health agencies, where they work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists. The curriculum emphasizes communication, hands-on care, and clinical decision-making. Starting salaries range from $58,564 for entry-level PTAs to over $100,000 for experienced professionals. While the PTA program is primarily career-focused, general education coursework is transferable to Texas public colleges and many private or out-of-state institutions. Students are encouraged to consult advisors for specific transfer opportunities. This program is ideal for those passionate about helping others regain mobility and independence through therapeutic care.
Loma Linda University
https://llu.edu/academics/programs/school-allied-health-professions/physical-therapist-assistant
Loma Linda, CA
Program Overview, Length, and Curriculum
Loma Linda University offers a 15-month Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program, which includes five consecutive quarters of study leading to an Associate of Science degree. The program is highly regarded and currently ranked #1 in the U.S. by College Factual. It includes one year of prerequisite coursework that can be completed at an accredited college or university, followed by technical education at LLU. The curriculum focuses on patient care, therapeutic techniques, and clinical practice under the supervision of licensed physical therapists. Required coursework includes Anatomy and Physiology, Medical Terminology, Psychology, Physics, Speech or Communication, and other health science subjects. The program prepares graduates for the National PTA Licensing Examination and state licensure, with career opportunities in hospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, and sports and wellness environments.
Tuition, Financial Aid, and Outcomes
The total cost of the program is approximately $37,898 for tuition and fees across 15 months, with an additional allowance for books and materials. Estimated living expenses vary based on housing type, ranging from $9,720 to $27,540 annually. LLU offers financial aid, scholarships, and work-study options specific to PTA students. The average student debt upon program completion is about $33,834. Students must complete at least 80 observation hours prior to admission, including time in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Graduates are well-prepared for diverse clinical roles and typically experience high job placement rates. The program does not require relocation for clinical rotations, adding convenience and reducing additional housing expenses for students.
Albany State University
https://www.asurams.edu/academic-affairs/dchealthprof/health/pta/index.php
Albany, GA
Albany State University offers a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program designed to prepare students to work under the supervision of physical therapists to assist in the rehabilitation of patients with neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, and integumentary system disorders. The program is split into two phases: a pre-professional phase where students complete the prerequisite coursework, and a professional phase consisting of 16 months of clinical and academic training. Students who are accepted into the professional phase must complete a total of 27 credit hours of prerequisite coursework before applying, including subjects like Human Anatomy & Physiology, Psychology, and English Composition. The professional phase starts in the fall and spans four semesters, culminating in a December graduation. Students will also be eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapist Assistant Examination upon completion.
Admissions, Tuition, and Outcomes
The PTA program at Albany State admits one class of 20 students annually, with a deadline of June 1 for applications. Admission is competitive and based on GPA, observational hours, recommendation letters, and the TEAS exam. Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.8 and complete at least 40 hours of observation in a physical therapy setting. The program has an estimated total cost of $7,988 for in-state residents and $20,381 for non-residents. This includes tuition, fees, and textbook costs.
Additional expenses may include clinical attire, background checks, and licensing fees. Graduates of the program can expect to work in various settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient clinics, with an average starting salary ranging from $43,000 to $55,000 in Southwest Georgia. The program is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
Athens Technical College
https://www.athenstech.edu/programs/physical-therapist-assistant/
Athens, GA
The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at Athens Technical College offers an Associate of Applied Science degree, accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). This extensive program equips students with the skills necessary to assist physical therapists in treating individuals with mobility challenges and functional limitations. The curriculum combines general education courses, physical therapy fundamentals, and hands-on clinical training. Students engage in coursework covering anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology, and rehabilitation, while also participating in clinical education to gain practical experience in healthcare environments.
Program Length, Tuition, and Outcomes
Structured to be completed within a typical academic timeline, the PTA program integrates classroom learning with clinical experiences in real-world settings. Students participate in three clinical education components, providing them with essential hands-on training. Upon graduation, students are eligible to sit for certification and licensure exams to become physical therapist assistants. As demand for physical therapy services continues to grow, particularly in private practices, hospitals, and nursing homes, the need for qualified PTAs is expected to rise. The program’s CAPTE accreditation guarantees that students receive a top-tier education that aligns with industry standards, positioning them for success in the expanding healthcare sector.
Clarkson College
Omaha, NE
https://www.clarksoncollege.edu/physical-therapist-assistant
Prestigious Program with Flexible Learning Paths
Clarkson College offers an Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), recognized as one of the most reputable programs in the region since its establishment in 1994. Students can choose between a traditional on-campus option and a transfer hybrid track. The traditional route spans two years (6 semesters), ideal for first-time college students or those with minimal college credit. It includes in-depth classroom training, on-campus labs, and two six-week clinical experiences in the final semester. The transfer hybrid track, ranked #1 by nurse.org in 2024, is a 16-month program (4 semesters) designed for students with at least 35 previous college credits or an existing degree. This option combines asynchronous online learning with four on-campus skills weekends each semester and two clinical rotations.
Tuition, Outcomes, and Career Readiness
Tuition for the PTA program is $671 per credit hour, with full-time students paying approximately $8,202 per semester. Financial aid and scholarships are available to qualified students. Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for licensure and are well-prepared to deliver ethical, high-quality rehabilitative care. Clarkson College boasts hundreds of clinical partnerships nationwide, providing students with strong professional connections and real-world experience that often leads to employment soon after graduation.
Elgin Community College (ECC)
https://elgin.edu/areas-of-study/physical-therapist-assistant
Elgin, IL
Affordable, Hands-On Education in Just Two Years
The Physical Therapist Assistant program at ECC delivers a comprehensive and affordable education that can be completed in two years (five semesters), including a summer term. Students earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree through a curriculum that includes 71–74 credit hours of coursework in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, neuroscience, and behavioral sciences. About 75% of the program involves classroom and lab-based learning, while 25% is devoted to clinical education, including three supervised clinical rotations. The program emphasizes hands-on learning with state-of-the-art lab facilities and close partnerships with local clinics.
High Employment and Licensure Success
ECC’s PTA program has maintained a 100% licensure exam pass rate over 15 years, and over 90% of graduates secure employment annually. Students gain the knowledge and skills needed to assist licensed physical therapists in treating patients of all ages and backgrounds. The PTA field is growing rapidly, driven by an aging population and increased demand for rehabilitative care. ECC admits new students once per year for fall entry, with an application deadline of March 15. With its affordability and strong outcomes, ECC provides a highly accessible path to a fulfilling career in physical therapy.
Conclusion: How Long Does It Take to Pay Off a PTA Student Loan?
If you take out student loans to pay for a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, it’s important to know how long repayment may take based on your starting salary and repayment strategy.
Average Cost of a PTA AAS Degree: $13,300
Average Starting Salary for PTAs: $58,000 per year
Below is a breakdown of how long it would take to repay $13,300 in student loans, assuming no interest for simplicity and that you apply a fixed percentage of your gross annual salary toward repayment:
| % of Annual Salary Used | Annual Repayment | Years to Repay $13,300 |
|---|---|---|
| 5% of $58,000 | $2,900 | ~4.6 years |
| 10% of $58,000 | $5,800 | ~2.3 years |
| 15% of $58,000 | $8,700 | ~1.5 years |
| 20% of $58,000 | $11,600 | ~1.1 years |
These estimates show that with modest financial planning, most PTA graduates can fully repay their student loans in under five years—even faster with a more aggressive repayment approach. Since PTA programs tend to be lower-cost and lead to steady employment, they offer a strong return on investment for those pursuing a healthcare career.