Western Technical College

Q: What is a Physical Therapist Assistant?

A: A Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is a health care provider who works under the supervision of a Licensed Physical Therapist to provide rehabilitative or preventative measures to individuals with physical impairments.

Q: In what settings do PTAs work?

A: Physical Therapist Assistants work in a variety of settings including, but not limited to: hospitals, sports-injury clinics, schools, burn units, outpatient clinics, assisted living facilities, aquatic centers, rehabilitation centers, intensive care units, nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities and home health care.

Q: What is the average salary of a PTA?

A: According to the US Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the median salary for a Physical Therapist Assistant in the US is $39,500. The median salary for PTA’s in Texas is $42,100. Entry-level salaries will vary and are typically less than the median salary. Some employers may offer sign-on bonuses. Salaries will depend on the experience, skill level and geographical location of the Physical Therapist Assistant.

Q: Will my PTA AAS degree help me continue to be a Physical Therapist?

A: Some students intend to continue their education and apply to a university for the Physical Therapist Program. Students who are interested in this option should have a clear understanding of the following:

1.  Western Technical College’s PTA Program is designed to prepare individuals to be employed as a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant, as opposed to preparing an individual for entry into a physical therapist education program.
2. A Physical Therapist educational program results in a Master’s or Doctoral degree. The technical courses in the PTA program are generally not transferable to a PT program; however, the general education courses may transfer if accepted by the University in which you are applying.
3. Western Technical College’s PTA Program is not designed nor intended to meet the pre- requisites of a PT Program.

Q: Why do students need a background check to attend the PTA Program?

A: Due to the nature of the physical therapy profession we must make the patient’s safety a priority at all times. Clinical facilities may also require students to pass a background check in order to clinically affiliate at their site. Furthermore, if you have a history of a felony conviction, it may not be possible for you to achieve licensure in the State of Texas. Most states will not grant licensure to persons with a history of a felony conviction. For more information, contact the governing board for the state in which you are considering applying for licensure. In Texas, the governing board is the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners of the State of Texas.

Q: Can a PTA his/her own clinic or home health agency?

A: Yes.  A PTA can own a private clinic or home health agency, but must they must still clinically practice under the direct supervision of a PT.