PTA Schools in Colorado (CO)

Arapahoe Community College (ACC) offers a comprehensive Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program leading to an Associate of Applied Science degree, designed to prepare students for careers in the rapidly growing field of physical therapy. This two-year program includes 58 credit hours dedicated to PTA courses and 17 hours of transferable general education, focusing on areas like human anatomy, therapeutic techniques, and clinical practices.

Classes take place at both the Sturm Collaboration Campus in Castle Rock and the Littleton Campus. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, featuring internships and access to state-of-the-art equipment, such as the Anatomage Table, which allows for virtual dissection and interactive anatomy study.

Graduates are well-equipped to pass the National Physical Therapist Assistant Examination, with a robust track record of licensure pass rates consistently above the national average. Job placement rates for graduates also stand impressively at 100%, reflecting the program’s strong connection to clinical sites and the healthcare community.

ACC, established in 1965, is known for its commitment to affordable education and student success. With experienced faculty and a community-oriented approach, the PTA program offers an enriching educational experience, preparing students for a fulfilling career in healthcare. Interested candidates can apply annually between April 1 and May 23 for the fall cohort.

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at Concorde Career College – Aurora offers an Associate of Applied Science degree designed to equip students with essential skills for a rewarding career in physical therapy. Over 20 months, students complete 78 credit hours, including 360 lab hours and 720 clinical hours, which provide hands-on experience in real healthcare settings. The curriculum covers therapeutic exercises, mobility training, and patient care techniques, emphasizing practical applications.

Graduates are prepared to work in diverse environments such as outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and home healthcare, addressing a growing demand for PTAs projected to increase by 19% from 2023 to 2033. The program’s unique blended learning model combines online coursework, in-person lab sessions, and clinical experiences, fostering a comprehensive educational approach.

Concorde’s Aurora campus boasts a supportive environment with experienced instructors committed to student success. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), ensuring high educational standards. With financial aid and scholarship options available, Concorde aims to make healthcare education accessible. Students who previously studied kinesiology or health sciences may qualify for course credits through a block transfer option, enhancing the program’s flexibility and appeal.

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at Morgan Community College (MCC) offers an Associate of Applied Science degree designed to equip students with the skills needed to assist physical therapists in enhancing patient mobility, managing pain, and optimizing physical function. The rigorous 21-month program includes comprehensive training in patient assessment, safety, clinical problem-solving, medical ethics, and communication within a culturally competent framework.

Classes are held 2-3 days per week on the Fort Morgan campus with small class sizes to ensure personalized attention. The program benefits from a highly qualified faculty with extensive experience in various physical therapy settings. Notably, MCC’s PTA program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), ensuring a high standard of education.

MCC boasts a 47% two-year graduation rate and a 69% pass rate on the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE), along with a 69% employment rate two years post-graduation, indicating a solid career outlook for graduates. The upcoming application window for the Fall 2025 cohort opens on May 9, 2025. With unique features such as quality clinical experiences and a strong focus on ethical professionalism, MCC’s PTA program prepares students well for a rewarding career in physical therapy support.

Pikes Peak State College (PPSC) offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) designed to equip students with the necessary skills to support physical therapists in various healthcare settings. This selective admissions program emphasizes practical training, where students learn to assist patients in regaining mobility and managing pain through various therapies.

Core courses include Medical Terminology, Basic Patient Care, and Neurologic Assessment, which prepare graduates for the licensure exam required by most states. PPSC boasts impressive statistics, including a 100% graduation and employment rate, along with a 94% ultimate licensure passing rate, highlighting the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers as PTAs.

Graduates can expect diverse career opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation facilities, where they will work closely with patients of all ages. The program prioritizes ethical practice and professional communication, ensuring students are well-prepared for the challenges of the healthcare environment.

Unique to PPSC, the PTA program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education, ensuring it meets high educational standards. The college also offers various support services, including academic tutoring and career counseling, fostering an environment for student success in both their educational and professional endeavors.

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at Pima Medical Institute’s Denver Campus offers an Associate Degree designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for a career in physical therapy. Over approximately 18 months, students engage in comprehensive coursework including anatomy, kinesiology, medical terminology, and ethics, combined with hands-on training to prepare for clinical practice.

Graduates are prepared to assist licensed physical therapists in various settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, and nursing care facilities, focusing on helping patients recover from injuries and improve mobility. The program emphasizes practical skills through clinical externships, allowing students to gain real-world experience.

The career outlook for physical therapist assistants is promising, with demand expected to grow significantly due to an aging population and rising chronic conditions. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this field is projected to expand much faster than average, making it a stable job choice.

Pima Medical Institute is distinguished by its commitment to student success and personalized career services, aiding graduates in job placement, resume building, and interview preparation. The program’s accreditation ensures that students meet licensure requirements for physical therapist assistants in multiple states, enhancing their employability post-graduation. Overall, the PTA program at Pima Medical Institute serves as a robust entry point into the healthcare field.

Pueblo Community College (PCC) offers a comprehensive Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program leading to an Associate of Applied Science degree, which can be completed in five semesters. The program is structured to prepare students for rewarding careers in physical therapy, combining theoretical coursework with practical clinical experiences. Classes are held for two to two and a half days each week, with clinical placements scheduled during the third and fifth semesters, typically encompassing 40 hours per week in various locations throughout southern Colorado.

Instructors bring over 40 years of combined physical therapy experience and 22 years in education, enhancing the quality of learning through diverse expertise in fields such as orthopedic and neurological rehabilitation. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), ensuring adherence to high educational standards.

Graduation and employment rates are strong, with a two-year average graduation rate of 82.35% and a 100% employment rate for graduates. The program also boasts a first-time national exam pass rate averaging 96.15% over two years. PCC takes a proactive stance on drug screening, including THC, which must be cleared before admission into health professions programs. Overall, the PTA program at PCC stands out for its expert faculty and commitment to student success, making it a valuable choice for aspiring physical therapist assistants.

PTA Careers in Colorado

Colorado offers a diverse range of employment opportunities for physical therapist assistants (PTAs) across various settings.

• In urban centers like Denver, PTAs can find positions in bustling outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and sports medicine facilities, catering to a high volume of patients with diverse needs.
• The mountainous regions, such as Aspen and Breckenridge, provide unique opportunities for PTAs to work in specialized clinics focusing on sports injuries and rehabilitation for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Additionally, rural areas, like those surrounding Grand Junction, often require PTAs in community health settings, providing essential services to underserved populations.

This variety allows PTAs to tailor their careers to their interests while contributing to the health and well-being of Colorado residents.

How to Select a PTA School in Colorado

There are a number of things to consider when selecting physical therapist assistant programs. Here’s a quick list of some of the most crucial considerations to always remember as you research for your physical therapist assistant program:

• College size
• Pass-rates of the National licensure test
• Lecture room and lab room facilities
• PTA School costs and potential opportunities for financial aid
• PTA Program admittance requirements

As you bring these physical therapy assistant program things into thought, it may be useful to talk with current students in addition to recent graduates of the physical therapist assistant schools of interest. Also, interviewing firms whom have hired these students can give you additional insight to each programs strengths and weaknesses.

More PTA Info for Colorado:

PTA Licenses in Colorado
PTA Salaries in Colorado