Are There Any Online Colleges That Offer Associates Degree As A Physical Therapist Assistant?
I was wondering if anyone out there can help me decide the best online distance learning college that is accredited who offers an associate’s degree as a physical therapist assistant? I have been getting feedback that getting into that profession is a great idea as it is very rewarding with excellent benefits and pay. I love to help people and make them feel better. But I am going to pursue my career in pediatrics because I want to help children. Can anyone help me with the best school that i can do online from home? Thanks to all and god bless!
I am sorry to tell you that there are no online physical therapy assistant programs (not to be confused with a physical therapy aide). Even the APTA states directly on their website that CAPTE (the organization that accredits PT and PTA programs) does not/will not accredit any online programs for these professions. These are hands on careers; and, therefore, require a hands on education. If you want to become a PTA you need to go to a live, accredited program available at many community colleges. You can go to the education section of http://www.apta.org to get a list of accredited PTA programs.
However, there ARE online schools for a physical therapy AIDE/TECH position. This is NOT the same as a PTA. In all honesty, I think these programs (such as those offered by Penn Foster) are a waste of time and money. The aide position is primarily an on the job trained position with very limited patient contact (however that also depends on your state). Most aides are not allowed any patient contact except under the direct line of site supervision of a PT or PTA. Since you are receiving this level of supervision, I see little reason to become “certified” as an aide/tech. The eduction (which lasts from about 6 months to a year) hardly seems worth a $9-$10 an hour job. Go for 1 extra year to become a PTA and you will nearly double your income. However, if you really want to become a tech, just know that you do not need any formal education to become one. All of our techs at our facility were trained on the job. Their primary responsibilities include clerical work, cleaning the gym, and providing assitance during treatments (such as helping the therapist stand a patient, etc). Furthermore, the APTA nor CAPTE is not currently endorsing any aide training programs.