Physical Therapist Assistant & Aide

“Something people may not know about being a PTA is the emotional aspect of the job. Yes, it is physical therapy, but as therapists, we often build strong relationships with our patients and are a part of their recovery process.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​”

– Kendra Covele, PTA Associate Degree Program Graduate, Ivy Tech

As uncomfortable as physical therapy can be for post-operative patients, the occupational independence they gain from it is well worth the effort. Physical therapy treats injuries, disorders, and other issues using non-surgical methods, such as massage, heat treatment, exercises, assistive equipment (such as walkers), and more. Accordingly, PTAs and PT aides may work with patients of all ages and abilities. Some of their patients may recover from work-related or sports injuries, while others may have a neurological disorder that impacts movement.

PTAs and PT aides typically work in an office, clinic, hospital, skilled nursing facility, or home health setting. Depending on the setting, some PTAs and PT aides may work in an environment specializing in certain patient groups, such as children or athletes. Those interested in this field should demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, as they commonly interact one-on-one with patients, as well as compassion and attention to detail. Many PTAs and PT aides are on their feet for most of the day, so they should have dexterity and physical stamina.

PTAs and PT aides perform different functions to ensure quality care is provided to patients. PTAs have more education and licensing requirements than physical therapist aides. Working under a physical therapist’s supervision and direction, PTAs provide treatment, rehabilitation, and preventive care to people of all ages.

They work closely with patients, monitoring and reporting their status and progress to the physical therapist throughout their treatment. Care and treatment options may include exercises, hands-on therapy, and assistive equipment. Recovery plans range from short- to long-term care depending on the injury or illness.

All PTAs must obtain a high school diploma or GED and complete an associate’s degree from a PTA program accredited through the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Coursework typically includes clinical pathology, biology, anatomy, physiology, and ethics and 15-30 weeks of supervised clinical education to obtain hands-on experience.

Alternatively, PT aides perform indirect patient care by performing clerical duties, setting and cleaning up treatment areas, and moving patients. They gain experience through on-the-job training and are not required to be licensed or certified. PT aides typically have a high school diploma or GED. Working as a PT aide can be a stepping stone toward becoming a physical therapist or PTA.

Read on to discover how to become a PTA, including education and licensure requirements, or pursue a career as a PT aide.

Fast Facts	Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)	Physical Therapy Aide (PT Aide)
Projected Jobs Created	27,500	1,300
Projected Job Growth: 2022 to 2032	25%	3%
Low Salary: 10th Percentile	$46,020	$24,960
Average Salary (Median)	$65,510	$34,520
High Salary: 90th Percentile	$87,630	$46,930
Entry-Level EDU	Associate’s Degree	High School Diploma/GED
Sources BLS (2025)	Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides: Occupational Outlook Handbook 31-2021 Physical Therapist Assistants	Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides: Occupational Outlook Handbook 31-2022 Physical Therapist Aides

MedicalTechnologySchools.com: What is something most people don’t know about being a physical therapy assistant?

Covele: Something people may not know about being a PTA is the emotional aspect of the job. Yes, it is physical therapy, but as therapists, we often build strong relationships with our patients and are a part of their recovery process. Whether it is supporting a patient with an acute or chronic condition, we oftentimes are witnessing firsthand their struggles and successes. Being able to provide encouragement, listen to a patient’s frustration or uncertainty with rehab along with performing our own clinical duties is an often overlooked part of the job.

MedicalTechnologySchools.com: What is one piece of advice you would give to an aspiring physical therapy assistant?

Covele: One piece of advice I would give to an aspiring PTA or rehab tech would be to shadow or seek as many opportunities as you can to learn from other experienced therapists. It will give you a clearer understanding of the day-to-day life and will also help you see different approaches, rehab techniques, and how therapists work as a team. It can help build relationships and open doors for future opportunities, just like it did with me! 

MedicalTechnologySchools: What is something most people don’t know about being a physical therapy assistant?

McCallay: Being a physical therapist assistant (PTA) can be a very rewarding experience. As a PTA, you work under the supervision of a PT to assist in recovery from a wide variety of injuries and surgical interventions. You may also be involved in the care of individuals with neurological conditions. Your clientele may range from newborns to centenarians.

Regardless of the condition, it can be very stressful on the individuals, their families and sometimes even employers. Our role in their lives should reflect that of a tour guide directing them on the path that would lead them to the greatest possible outcomes and, at other times, could resemble that of a cheerleader.

MedicalTechnologySchools: What is one piece of advice you would give to an aspiring physical therapy assistant?

McCallay: Stay passionate about learning and bringing positive energy to your work with clients. You should always be lifting up those individuals and families. I consider it a blessing to be able to make a positive impact in their lives.

Degree & Certification Programs in Physical Therapy Assistance

It takes an average of several months to become a PT aide for those who already have a high school diploma or GED. This includes the time to apply for jobs and receive any on-the-job training. There are no licensing or certification requirements. Depending on age and prior education, those without a high school diploma or GED may take up to four years to complete their diploma or pass their GED examinations.

PTAs need an associate’s degree from a physical therapist assistant program accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)’s Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). These two-year programs accept applications annually and provide coursework in physical therapy, general education, and clinical education. Depending on the school, the number of accepted students may range from 12 to 50 or more. 

Admission requirements are determined by individual schools, as there is no centralized application for PTA programs. Some schools may have a more selective admissions process and require a competitive, point-based process. 

Those applying to a PTA program should always check with admissions offices for further information about requirements. However, most schools require one or more of the following:

• High school diploma or GED
• Minimum cumulative GPA
• Completion of prerequisite coursework in science, math, and English
• Submittal of personal statement or essay
• Recommendations from past employers or teachers
• Documented proof of observation of a clinical setting
• Immunizations

Roughly three-fourths of two-year PTA degree programs take place in a lab or classroom, where students may also pursue additional certifications such as first aid skills. The remaining fourth of the curriculum is focused on clinical hours, according to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). 

Students in PTA programs spend an average of 16 weeks gaining full-time, hands-on experience. Degree programs for PTAs do not offer specializations. Accordingly, those interested in gaining experience within a specific industry, such as skilled nursing facilities or sports, will want to select a degree program with curriculum and clinical education opportunities that fit that area.

Here’s a featured list of accredited programs that train students to become licensed PTAs.

Miami Dade College

Miami Dade College has one of the longest-running PTA programs in the US and was the first to graduate a class of physical therapy assistants in 1969. Located in Miami, Florida, the college offers a two-year associate’s degree that PTA students can complete in five semesters. 

Notable for its focus on technology, Miami Dade College uses an online learning management system, Blackboard, so that students may rewatch on-campus lectures and access resources such as laboratory-savvy guides. This 74-credit program features a service-learning component, where students gain clinical experience while also serving the local community.

• Location: Multiple campuses in Florida
• Duration: 2.25 years
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)

Cerritos College

Located in Cerritos, California, Cerritos College offers an associate’s degree that prospective PTAs can complete in two years. With a focus on preparing students for licensure, over two-thirds of graduates pass their licensure exam on the first try.

Courses include therapeutic exercise, aging and integumentary management, soft tissue interventions, and prosthetics and orthotics for allied health professionals. The program begins every fall semester and can be completed in two academic years.

• Location: Cerritos, CA
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)

Northland Community & Technical College

Located in East Grand Forks, Minnesota, Northland Community & Technical College provides a 74-credit associate of applied science (AAS) degree that positions students for immediate entry into working as a PTA. This program provides a diverse curriculum that includes additional courses in medical coding, interpersonal skills, public speaking, and more. 

To apply, students must take and pass the TEAS V for Allied Health Exam, hold current CPR certification, complete all courses with a grade of “C” or higher, have an educational background in the sciences, complete the health screening & immunization requirements, and a criminal background check for clinical experiences.

• Location: East Grand Forks, MN
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)

Baker College – College of Health Science

With campuses throughout Michigan, Baker College’s College of Health Science offers an associate’s PTA degree that takes two years to complete. The 78-credit program notably includes three clinical placements and coursework in human anatomy and physiology, psychology, communication, patient assessment, and pediatric management.

The program is offered on-campus, but general education and prerequisite coursework is available at the Muskegon, Owosso, and Royal Oak campuses and online.

• Location: Multiple campuses in Michigan
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)

Austin Community College

Located outside of Austin in Round Rock, Texas, Austin Community College offers a two-year physical therapy assistant program. Students in this program learn from award-winning faculty who teach students how to improve mobility with exercises, techniques, and patient tracking.

Courses include human growth and development, rehabilitation techniques, management of neurological disorders, and clinical hours. Graduates from this program have a 100 percent pass rate on the licensure exam and a 94 percent job placement rate.

• Location: Round Rock, TX
• Duration: Four semesters
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)

Mohave Community College

With campuses in Bullhead City, Kingman, Lake Havasu City, and North Mohave, Mohave Community College offers a two-year degree. This two-year associate’s degree program prepares students for the PTA licensing exam and work with patients of all ages who are suffering from a variety of ailments. Courses include rehabilitation of special populations, physical therapy seminars, and clinical practicum.

• Location: Multiple campuses in Arizona
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)

Hybrid and Online Physical Therapist Assistant & Aide Programs

Since PTAs are not required to obtain further post-secondary education or maintain any licenses or certifications, there are very few online programs available. Some community colleges offer hybrid programs which require a high school diploma or GED for admission.

Bucks County Community College

Located in Newtown, Pennsylvania, Bucks County Community College offers a hybrid physical therapy aide program at its Newtown Campus. This is a 50-hour program that prepares graduates for physical therapy aide careers. Students learn roles and responsibilities, applied human anatomy and physiology, pathology, biomechanics, and medical terminology. Special topic courses include total hip replacement, amputee support, and traumatic brain injury. Courses are offered in the evenings

• Location: Newtown, PA
• Duration: 50 hours; approximately 2.5 months
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

While there are no fully online PTA degree programs due to the need for in-person labs and clinical experiences, there are several hybrid options available. The programs profiled below offer a hybrid delivery for those seeking a career as a PTA.

Jefferson State Community College

With locations throughout Alabama, Jefferson State Community College offers a two-year hybrid associate of applied science for PTAs looking to maximize flexibility while furthering their career. Students complete lecture courses online and then travel to the Shelby-Hoover campus in Birmingham, Alabama to complete laboratory courses, network with other students, and participate in clinical experiences.

First-year coursework is dedicated to prerequisites and the second year focuses on professional courses. This program prepares graduates for the National Physical Therapy Assistants Board Exam.

• Location: Multiple campuses in Alabama
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)

San Juan College

Based in Farmington, New Mexico, San Juan Colleges offers a two-year hybrid PTA program that provides online course delivery and in-person clinical experiences. Students then attend on-campus labs once a semester, allowing those already working or with familial responsibilities to set a schedule that works for them. Courses include therapeutic exercise, clinical externships, and pathophysiology.

• Location: Farmington, NM
• Duration: 3.25 years 
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)

NorthWest Arkansas Community College

Located in Bentonville, Arkansas, NorthWest Arkansas Community College offers a physical therapy assistant program in a traditional and hybrid format. In the hybrid program, students must travel to the NWACC campus every three to four weeks for a three-day intensive lab.

Courses are offered online and students are expected to manage their studying workloads. The traditional and hybrid programs offer the same requirements for service learning, didactic and clinical skills, testing procedures, and clinical internship hours.

• Location: Bentonville, AR
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)

Provo College

Provo College in Provo, Utah offers a 21-month hybrid PTA program. Some classes are available online or in a blended format for convenience and student safety. The curriculum includes 76 semester credit hours in general psychology, medical terminology, therapeutic procedures, and applied kinesiology. 

Applicants to this program must submit a negative drug screening test, complete an online education virtual orientation, and have internet and computer access.

• Location: Provo, UT
• Duration: 21 months
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)

Whatcom Community College

Located near Seattle in Bellingham, Washington, Whatcom Community College offers an associate of science degree for PTAs. This program is offered full-time on campus and part-time online in a hybrid format. Students can expect to spend 20 to 30 hours per week on coursework and homework.

Pierce College in South Puget Sound offers an in-person laboratory course monthly. Courses in this program include applied anatomy and clinical kinesiology, clinical neurology, and ethical issues in physical therapy.

• Location: Bellingham, WA
• Duration: 2.25 years
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)

California State University – Pomona College of Professional and Global Education

Cal Poly’s certified physical therapy aide course is fully online and doesn’t have prerequisites. The 190-hour comprehensive curriculum prepares graduates for the Physical Therapy Technician/Aide Certification (PTTC) exam. Students learn how the human body is organized, infection control, safety, communication, and the nervous systems, among other relevant subjects. They are qualified to seek entry-level positions in which they perform non-medical tasks such as setting up appointment rooms and preparing treatment tools.

• Location: Pomona, CA
• Duration: Nine months
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

California State University – San Bernardino College of Extended and Global Education

Students enrolled in Cal State’s certified physical therapy aide course learn skills that enable them to find employment in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, physical therapist offices, and nursing homes.

Their coursework includes medical terminology, body mechanics, pressure injuries, the skeletal and muscular systems, assistive devices, and others. Students are prepared to take the Physical Therapy Technician/Aide Certification (PTTC) exam, which increases their employment opportunities. The 100 percent online course requires 190 hours to complete and has no prerequisites.

• Location: San Bernardino, CA
• Duration: Nine months
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Core & Elective Courses in Physical Therapy Assistance

PT Aides

While PT aides are not required to obtain any certifications or licenses, they can expect on-the-job training to prepare them for the following responsibilities:

• Preparing treatment areas for patient use, including setting and cleaning up
• Cleaning treatment areas and moving equipment to maintain functionality 
• Assist with patient intake and other clerical duties
• Working with physical therapists and PTAs to observe and document patient progress and responses
• Coordinating with physicians’ offices and hospital personnel
• Transporting patients to and from treatment areas

Note that allowed job functions for PT aides may vary by state. Working as a PT aide is a common stepping stone into a career as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant.

PTAs

While programs may differ by college and state, the two-year PTA program prepares students for the following responsibilities:

• Observing patient status and progress before, during, and post-treatment
• Noting and reporting patient status to the physical therapist
• Helping patients do specific exercises and provide treatment as part of their plan of care
• Providing patient care using manual treatments, such as stretching and massage
• Using supportive equipment and devices, such as exercise balls, to help patients
• Working with the patient and their friends and family on post-care activities and options

Below are some common PTA courses that an accredited program may offer:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Exercise physiology
• Biomechanics
• Kinesiology
• Neuroscience
• Clinical pathology
• Behavioral sciences
• Communication
• Ethics and values

These courses are completed alongside clinical observations and rotations so students gain hands-on experience. Clinical experience typically accounts for 25 percent of each program. As PTAs undergo different education and training than physical therapists, it is not considered a stepping stone to becoming a physical therapist.

Accreditation of Physical Therapist Assistant Programs

PTA programs are accredited through the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), which is recognized by the United States Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Graduation from a CAPTE-accredited program is required to apply for state licensure to work as a physical therapist assistant. Note that licensure requirements differ by state.

According to the BLS, there are no accreditation requirements that apply to PT aides.

Licensing & Certification for Physical Therapist Assistants

Each state and territory in the United States requires PTAs to get licensed in the state in which they want to practice. Those seeking licensure should apply and graduate from a CAPTE-accredited PTA degree program. PTAs must also pass the National Physical Therapy Assistants Exam, administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy. 

Additional requirements may include a background check, a jurisprudence exam on state laws and practices, and proof of minimum age (typically 18). In addition, some states may require PTAs to take a certain number of continuing education courses or maintain certification in specific life skills, such as CPR. Always check with the appropriate state board for specific licensing requirements.

PT aides are not required to get licensed or maintain any certifications. However, some employers may prefer candidates to hold CPR and Basic First Aid certifications.

Salary & Career Growth for Physical Therapy Assistants

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2025) estimates the addition of 28,800 physical therapist assistant (PTA) and physical therapy aide (PT aide) jobs between 2023 and 2033. Jobs in physical therapy assistance are predicted to grow by over 19 percent as the Baby Boomer generation in the United States ages and requires rehabilitation for post-surgery recovery for hip and shoulder replacements and other common age-related ailments.

The salary outlook for Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs) from 2023 to 2033 is quite encouraging, reflecting their pivotal role in healthcare. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), PTAs can expect a steady increase in compensation over the decade. The median annual wage for PTAs was approximately $65,510 in 2024, with those in the 10th percentile earning around $46,020 and those in the 90th percentile making $87,630. 

This growth underscores the increasing demand for physical therapy services, driven by an aging population and a greater focus on rehabilitation and chronic disease management. The BLS also projects strong job growth for PTAs, ensuring both financial and professional stability in this rewarding healthcare profession.