Physical Therapist Assistant
About the Program:
Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) treat patients under the direction of a Physical Therapist. PTAs use therapeutic modalities such as exercise, joint and soft tissue mobilization, endurance training, neuromuscular re-education, and therapeutic application of heat, cold, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation to assist patients to move and perform functional activities with the greatest amount of independence possible. Work as a PTA might include teaching patients how to use orthotics, crutches, canes, walkers, or other devices to increase independence. Employers, such as hospitals, schools, skilled nursing facilities, outpatient clinics, and homecare agencies employ Physical Therapist Assistants.
The Physical Therapist Assistant program is offered at the Cape Girardeau Career & Technology Center through a contractual agreement (memorandum of understanding) with Mineral Area College, and results in an Associate of Applied Science Degree. Cape CTC is a non-degree-granting institution therefore, the Associate of Applied Science degree is conferred through MAC once all degree requirements are met. The core PTA courses, taught by CTC faculty, are 12 months beginning in August each year. Core classes meet from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily at Cape CTC with clinical rotations, including 8-10-hour shifts at healthcare facilities.
In addition to the core PTA courses, students must also complete 24 – 26 credit hours of general education courses which may be taken online or at any MAC location. Upon completing all degree requirements from the accredited PTA program, students may sit for the national board exam and pursue licensure in the state of their choosing.
To apply for the PTA program:
Complete an application with the $20 processing fee.
Complete the pre-requisite courses.
Achieve a minimum score of 60% on the pre-entrance test (TEAS).
Submit official educational transcripts to CTC & Mineral Area College.
Provide three work references.
Schedule an interview with a selection committee.
The application deadline is the first Friday of May each year. The program runs from August to August.
Admission Process
The Admission Committee reviews the applicant’s folder using a standard scoring guide. Higher pre-entrance test scores and positive work references increase the applicant’s probability of being selected for the program. FINAL ACCEPTANCE is contingent upon a criminal background check. The program is eligible for federal financial aid. Students will need to use school code 002486.
