PTA Schools in Idaho (ID)

Brigham Young University-Idaho offers a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program under the Department of Human Performance and Recreation. The PTA degree equips students to treat patients through exercise, balance training, and other therapeutic interventions under the direction of a physical therapist. However, it does not prepare students for other Physical Therapy degrees.

Applications are accepted until the Monday before Spring Semester graduation, with studies commencing in Fall Semester. Required courses needed prior to and during the PTA program can be found on their website along with two mandatory internship courses – PTA 198 and PTA 298.

The BYU-Idaho’s PTA Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), ensuring that graduates meet eligibility requirements to sit for licensure exams necessary across all states. The school is committed to maintaining its accreditation status while complying with CAPTE policies and procedures.

More information about becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant including expected student outcomes can be accessed from their website as well as answers to frequently asked questions regarding this program. To reach out directly one may contact Mark Coglianese at coglianesem@byui.edu or call at (208) 496-4687.

The Idaho Consortium for Physical Therapist Assistant Education offers a two-year program, culminating in an A.A.S. degree and preparing students for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE). The consortium consists of four member colleges: College of Southern Idaho, College of Western Idaho, Lewis-Clark State College, and North Idaho College. Students complete general education requirements at their home college before applying to the program.

Classes are delivered via Zoom or Interactive Video Conference equipment to each campus while laboratory components are conducted on-site at each respective school. Clinical education experiences integrated throughout the curriculum provide opportunities to practice learned techniques each semester. Although generally performed in students’ home regions, some travel may be required to one or more clinical sites during the course duration.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), ensuring high-quality standards for physical therapy education.

Complaints against faculty members, students or graduates can be made formally through written complaints submitted to either the program director or dean.

All participating institutions adhere strictly to non-discrimination policies regarding race, color, religion, national origin sex etc., as per various federal laws and regulations such as Title VI & VII of Civil Rights Act 1964 among others. Appropriate considerations are also given to veterans according with applicable state and federal laws.

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at Idaho State University – College of Technology is a five-semester course that provides theory, laboratory, and clinical education. The curriculum is only offered during the day and upon completion, graduates are eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination for PTAs. Licensure is required in Idaho to practice as a PTA. Over five years, an average of 96% of graduates were either employed or continued their education with median incomes ranging from $48,970 to $62,950.

The program accepts 26 students each August via a competitive entry process requiring special application. Students must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 in all classes and successfully pass a background check upon acceptance into the program.

Degree options include an Associate of Applied Science (2 years), Bachelor of Science in Health Science (4+ years), and Bachelor of Applied Science (4+years). Additionally, students can pursue curriculums matriculating into ISU’s Doctorate in Physical Therapy Program.

Career opportunities exist within physical therapy clinics, hospitals nursing/personal care facilities home health agencies school districts etc.

The PTA Program at ISU is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) and takes complaints seriously as part of its commitment towards high standards & continuous quality improvement.

PTA Careers in Idaho

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

• In urban areas like Boise, PTAs can find roles in outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and hospitals, providing care for post-operative patients and those with chronic conditions.
• The Treasure Valley region, including Nampa and Caldwell, presents additional opportunities in schools and community health programs, focusing on pediatric therapy.
• In rural areas such as Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint, PTAs may work in home health settings, addressing the needs of patients with limited access to traditional healthcare facilities.

The state’s commitment to expanding healthcare services enhances job prospects for PTAs throughout Idaho.

Selecting a PTA School in Idaho

There are a number of things to consider when comparing PTA programs. Here’s a short list of some of the most significant factors to always remember as you research for your PTA program:

• College size
• Passing rate of the National License test
• Lecture room and labroom buildings
• PTA School expenses and opportunities for financial aid
• University admittance requirements

While you bring these physical therapist assistant program things into thought, it may be useful to survey current college students and former students of the physical therapy assistant schools of curiosity. Also, talking to employers whom have hired these graduates may provide you additional insight to each schools strengths & weaknesses.

More PTA Info for Idaho: