Physical Therapy Assistant Program At Ivy Tech Explained

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Are you interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, but not sure where to start? Do you want to make a difference in people's lives and help them recover from injuries or illnesses? If so, then a career as a physical therapist assistant (PTA) may be the perfect fit for you. In this article, we will delve into the Physical Therapy Assistant program at Ivy Tech, one of the leading community colleges in the United States.

What is a Physical Therapist Assistant?

A physical therapist assistant (PTA) is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of a physical therapist (PT) to provide physical therapy services to patients. PTAs are trained to perform a variety of tasks, including assisting with patient evaluations, implementing treatment plans, and providing education to patients and their families.

Why Choose Ivy Tech's Physical Therapy Assistant Program?

Ivy Tech's Physical Therapy Assistant program is a highly respected and accredited program that prepares students for a rewarding career as a PTA. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider choosing Ivy Tech's program:

• Accreditation: Ivy Tech's PTA program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), which ensures that the program meets the highest standards of quality and excellence.
• Expert Faculty: Ivy Tech's faculty are experienced physical therapists and PTAs who are dedicated to providing students with the best possible education and training.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Ivy Tech's physical therapy facilities are equipped with the latest technology and equipment, providing students with hands-on experience and training.
• Clinical Experience: Ivy Tech's program includes extensive clinical experience, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings.

Program Overview

Ivy Tech's Physical Therapy Assistant program is a two-year associate's degree program that includes both classroom and clinical instruction. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in physical therapy, including:

• Classroom Instruction: Students learn about the principles and practices of physical therapy, including anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and pharmacology.
• Clinical Instruction: Students gain hands-on experience in clinical settings, working with patients and physical therapists to develop their skills and knowledge.
• Clinical Experience: Students participate in clinical experiences, applying their knowledge and skills in real-world settings.

Curriculum

Ivy Tech's Physical Therapy Assistant program includes a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Anatomy and Physiology: Students learn about the structure and function of the human body, including the musculoskeletal, nervous, and circulatory systems.
• Biomechanics: Students learn about the principles of movement and function, including the mechanics of human motion and the principles of exercise.
• Pharmacology: Students learn about the principles of pharmacology, including the effects of medications on the body.
• Physical Therapy Principles: Students learn about the principles and practices of physical therapy, including patient evaluation, treatment planning, and intervention.
• Clinical Experience: Students participate in clinical experiences, applying their knowledge and skills in real-world settings.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for admission to Ivy Tech's Physical Therapy Assistant program, students must meet the following requirements:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent: Students must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Prerequisite Courses: Students must complete prerequisite courses in anatomy, physiology, and algebra.
• TEAS Exam: Students must take the TEAS exam and achieve a minimum score of 50.
• Application and Interview: Students must submit an application and participate in an interview with the program faculty.

Career Outlook

As a physical therapist assistant, you can expect a rewarding and challenging career, with opportunities for advancement and professional growth. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapist assistants is projected to grow 32% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Salary Range

The salary range for physical therapist assistants varies depending on location, experience, and employer. However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for physical therapist assistants was $58,790 in May 2020.

Benefits of Becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant

Becoming a physical therapist assistant can bring many benefits, including:

• Job Satisfaction: As a PTA, you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on people's lives and help them recover from injuries or illnesses.
• Job Security: The demand for PTAs is high, and employment opportunities are expected to grow in the coming years.
• Competitive Salary: PTAs are well-compensated, with median annual salaries ranging from $50,000 to over $70,000.
• Variety: As a PTA, you will have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.

Gallery of Physical Therapy Assistant Program

Conclusion

Ivy Tech's Physical Therapy Assistant program is a highly respected and accredited program that prepares students for a rewarding career as a PTA. With a comprehensive curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and extensive clinical experience, students can expect to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this field. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a physical therapist assistant, we encourage you to explore Ivy Tech's program further.