Training as a physical therapist assistant (PTA) is a great way to turn your passions and interests into a rewarding career. If you’ve studied topics such as anatomy or if you’ve always imagined yourself in the healthcare field, training to be a PTA could be a fulfilling choice.
While this isn’t an extensive list, here are three areas of study that could translate well into your PTA training program:
- Kinesiology – Kinesiology is the study of the mechanics of human movement and how they impact health. If you chose to major or minor in kinesiology (or even if you took a few classes), these can help you when you train as a PTA. You’ll use your existing knowledge of human anatomy and movement.
- Health Sciences – Classes in health sciences are a strong foundation for a PTA degree. Health sciences cover a variety of pertinent topics that can help you in your PTA studies and inform your clinical practice experience.
- Personal Training – Whether you are a certified personal trainer or are considering it as a career, training as a PTA can be a rewarding alternative that lets you make a difference for patients recovering from accidents or injuries. Like personal trainers, PTAs work hands-on with people, helping them through strengthening exercises and monitoring their progress.
What Is a Physical Therapist Assistant?
PTAs work together with physical therapists to help patients regain movement and manage pain after injuries and illnesses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, their tasks often include helping patients complete exercises, using assistive devices such as walkers, and educating patients about treatment.1
A career as a PTA requires not just knowledge of human anatomy, but compassion and patience. Your existing background and education could give you an advantage in the field. This could help you make a real difference for patients when they need support the most.
The Next Steps in Your PTA Training
In order to enter the occupation, PTAs need an associate degree from an accredited program and a license or certification.1
If you choose to pursue training as a physical therapist assistant, the next step is to find a program that meets your needs. ACC’s PTA program lets you graduate in as little as 20 months with an associate degree. The program is taught in a blended format that combines online and in-person instruction, as well as 600 clinical practice hours that help you gain hands-on, real-life experience before you graduate. Click here to learn more about our program.
ACC provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment.
