Program Overview:

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program is an accredited associate degree program centered at the Gaston Caperton Center in Clarksburg. This program is a full-time day program that can be completed in two academic years plus one required summer session. Students learn physical therapy theory in the classroom, practice techniques in the laboratory, and refine their skills in real heath care settings. Clinical placements begin in the second semester and continue in the summer and final two semesters. Clinical sites are situated throughout West Virginia. Graduates are eligible to take the state licensing examination and must pass the exam to work as physical therapist assistants.

Educational Advancement Opportunities:

Students have the option of studying for a BS in Allied Health Administration, through Fairmont State University, after graduation from the PTA program.

Employment Opportunities:

A Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is a licensed health care provider who works within a physical therapy setting under the supervision of a physical therapist. The PTA assists in the practice of physical therapy by performing delegated patient-related activities. These activities include performing selected treatment procedures, and observing, recording and reporting patient responses. Career opportunities for PTAs can be found in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, nursing care facilities, offices of physical therapists in private practice, and in home health agencies. According to the US Department of Labor, employment of physical therapist assistants is expected to grow much faster than average through the year 2014. Average annual salary in May 2004 was $37,890. PTAs may continue their education and receive a baccalaureate degree in a related field, but technical courses taken as part of the PTA program do not necessarily transfer for credit toward a degree to be a physical therapist.