Physical Therapist Assistant

Physical Therapist Assistant Home

Application and Information Packet
2010-2011 (pdf)

Information Sessions

Phone: 763.433.1100

Mission of the PTA Program

Meet the Instructors

Course Descriptions

FAQs

Contact Us

Jobs

PTA in The News

Clinical Site Resources

Continuing Education

Minnesota Licensure Information

Licensing Exam Information

Directions to the Therapeutic and Holistic Health Center (THHC)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current pay scale for Physical Therapist Assistants (PTA) in Minnesota? Are there many current job opportunities available?
Currently statistics show $13-$18 per hour for a Physical Therapist Assistant, depending on the work setting. There are many job opportunities in a variety of settings.

What are the different types of settings in which a PTA can work?
Settings include hospitals, nursing homes, out-patient clinics, home care, sub-acute, rehab, school systems, pediatrics, burn therapy, and industrial rehab.

What is the difference between a Physical Therapist (PT) and a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)?
PT’s do all the evaluations and prescribe what physical therapy treatments are appropriate for the patient. PTA’s carry out the treatment plan prescribed by the PT. A PTA often has more patient contact and less paperwork than the PT.

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What is the difference between a Physical Therapist and an Occupational Therapist?
Occupational therapy focuses more on activities of daily living (dressing, grooming, bathing) and treatment of the upper extremities. Physical therapy focuses on the whole body; improving independence with functional mobility, ambulation training, using modalities and massage to treat pain, and development of individualized exercise programs.

Can PTA classes transfer to a PT program?
None of the Physical Therapist schools in Minnesota accept PTA classes to take the place of PT classes. However, a PTA degree is very advantageous when applying to a PT school.

Do you have to take Anatomy & Physiology before starting the program?
No, but it is highly recommended. It is to your advantage to have the Anatomy & Physiology (BIOL 2113/2114) knowledge prior to starting the program core requirements. However, many of our students take these courses during their first year in the program.

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Can you take the required PTA classes out of sequence?
No. The classes must be taken in a specific sequence.

What is an AAS and how does it compare to an AA? Does it benefit me to get both while at ARCC?
Associates in Applied Science (AAS) degrees divide credits between general education and program-related technical coursework. The Associate in Arts (AA) degree consists almost exclusively of general education courses. It would be advantageous to earn both degrees if you plan on transferring to a four-year institution.

Do you have to have experience working in a medical setting in order to be successful in the PTA program?
No, but it can be very helpful and is an excellent way to understand what the physical therapy profession is all about.

Where can I go for clinical internships?
There are three clinical experiences included in the two-year PTA program. You are placed in an outpatient setting, a hospital setting, and either a geriatrics, pediatrics or sports medicine setting. We use over 100 different clinical sites in the Twin Cities and St. Cloud areas but will occasionally place students out-of-state per their request.

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