PTA in Arkansas

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Learn how to become a physical therapist assistant in 7 steps completing all education and licensing requirements.

Step 1. Graduate from a CAPTE-Accredited Physical Therapist Assistant Program

To become a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Arkansas, the first step is to graduate from a CAPTE-accredited program. The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) ensures that PTA programs meet specific educational standards, which are required for licensure. You can enter your zip code below to see programs near you.

You can also use these resources to research CAPTE Accredited PTA Programs:

• All Accredited PTA Programs in Arkansas
• Local PTA Program Search
• Online PTA Program Search

PTA programs in Arkansas typically award an associate’s degree upon completion. The duration of the program may vary, but it generally takes around two years of full-time study to complete. During this time, students will cover various topics related to physical therapy, including anatomy and physiology, therapeutic exercise, and patient care techniques.

One crucial aspect of a CAPTE-accredited PTA program is the emphasis on clinical training. Students are required to complete a certain number of hours in a clinical setting, where they gain hands-on experience working with patients under the supervision of licensed physical therapists. This practical training is essential for developing the necessary skills and competence to provide effective patient care.

Choosing a CAPTE-accredited PTA program is vital as it ensures that the education you receive meets the highest standards set by the profession. Graduating from such a program is a requirement for eligibility to apply for licensure as a PTA in Arkansas.

Step 2. Submit an Application for Examination and Licensure in Arkansas

To submit an application for examination and licensure as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Arkansas, use the application links above and fees and information from the table above to follow these steps:

1. Complete the Application: Begin by filling out the application form provided by the Arkansas State Board of Physical Therapy. This form includes personal information, education history, work experience, and any previous licensures held.

2. Submit Required Documents: Along with the application form, you need to provide supporting documents such as official transcripts from your PTA education program, a passport-sized photo, and letters of recommendation. These documents help verify your eligibility for licensure.

3. Pay the Application Fee: There is a non-refundable application fee that must be paid at the time of submission. The current fee is $100. Accepted payment methods include check or money order.

4. Choose Exam Date: Indicate your desired date for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), which is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). This exam assesses your knowledge and skills as a PTA.

5. Schedule the Jurisprudence Examination: As part of the Arkansas licensure process, you must also pass the Arkansas jurisprudence examination. This exam evaluates your understanding of the state’s laws and regulations relating to physical therapy practice.

Once you have submitted the application, all necessary supporting documents, and the required fees, the Arkansas State Board of Physical Therapy will review your application and determine your eligibility for examination and licensure. Keep in mind that all fees are subject to change, so it’s important to check the latest fee schedule on the board’s website.

Step 3. Pass National and Arkansas State Licensing Examinations

In order to become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Arkansas, you must pass both the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and the Arkansas jurisprudence examination. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Register with the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT): To begin the licensing process, you must register with the FSBPT and apply to take the NPTE-PTA. Their website provides detailed instructions on the application process.

2. Prepare for the NPTE-PTA: The NPTE-PTA is a comprehensive examination that covers various topics related to physical therapy. It tests your knowledge and understanding of patient care, treatment techniques, ethics, and more. There are several resources available to help you prepare, including study guides and practice exams.

3. Schedule and take the NPTE-PTA: Once your application is approved by the FSBPT, you can schedule your exam at a Prometric testing center. Prometric offers multiple locations throughout Arkansas where you can take the exam. Be sure to arrive on time and bring the required identification.

4. Pass the Arkansas jurisprudence examination: In addition to the NPTE-PTA, you must also pass the Arkansas jurisprudence examination. This exam ensures that you have a thorough understanding of the laws and regulations specific to the practice of physical therapy in Arkansas.

By successfully passing both the NPTE-PTA and the Arkansas jurisprudence examination, you will be one step closer to becoming a licensed PTA in Arkansas. Once licensed, you can pursue employment opportunities in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practices.

Step 4. Start Your Career as a Physical Therapist Assistant in Arkansas

Starting a career as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Arkansas involves a few important steps. First, you need to complete an accredited PTA program. Several educational institutions in Arkansas offer PTA programs, such as South Arkansas Community College and Northwest Arkansas Community College. These programs provide the necessary education and training to become a PTA.

After successfully completing a PTA program, you need to apply for licensure with the Arkansas Board of Physical Therapy. The application process requires submitting an application for licensure, passing scores from the National Physical Therapy Examination for Physical Therapist Assistants (NPTE-PTA), and meeting other requirements set by the Board. The NPTE-PTA is a standardized exam that assesses the knowledge and skills of PTAs.

Once you have obtained your PTA license from the Arkansas Board of Physical Therapy, you can start your career as a PTA. There are several top employers of PTAs in Arkansas, including CHI St. Vincent Health, Fort Smith – COTA, and Hot Springs Sports Medicine. These employers offer a range of opportunities for PTAs to work in various settings, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and sports medicine clinics.

Starting your career as a PTA in Arkansas provides numerous opportunities for growth and professional development in the field of physical therapy. With the right education, licensure, and experience, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients as a Physical Therapist Assistant.

Step 5. Complete Continuing Competency Hours to Renew Your License Every Two Years

To renew a physical therapist assistant (PTA) license in Arkansas every two years, PTAs are required to complete continuing competency hours. These hours ensure that PTAs stay up to date with the latest research and advancements in the field of physical therapy.

To meet the continuing competency requirements, PTAs in Arkansas must complete a minimum of 20 contact hours of continuing education (CEU) during each two-year renewal period. These contact hours must be approved by the Arkansas State Board of Physical Therapy.

The criteria for acceptable CEU contact hours include courses and workshops related to physical therapy practice, clinical management, and education. PTAs can also earn CEU credit for courses related to medical terminology, patient care, and rehabilitation.

When submitting their license renewal application, PTAs must provide documentation of completion for their CEU contact hours. The Arkansas State Board of Physical Therapy requires PTAs to keep a record of their completed CEUs for a period of three years.

In addition to the CEU contact hours, PTAs in Arkansas are also required to pass the Arkansas jurisprudence exam. This exam tests PTAs’ knowledge of the laws and regulations governing physical therapy practice in the state.

By completing the necessary continuing competency hours, PTAs can ensure the renewal of their license and demonstrate their commitment to professional growth and development in the field of physical therapy.

Why Be a PTA in Arkansas?

Arkansas is a great state for PTAs with 4 accredited PTA Programs available. There are also many jobs and salaries range from $45,000 to $54,000+ annually. Learn more about becoming a physical therapy assistant in Arkansas by clicking the links below.

• Research Arkansas’s PTA Programs
• Compare average PTA salaries in Arkansas’s major cities

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