PTA Schools in Montana (MT)

Flathead Valley Community College offers an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program that prepares students for entry-level positions in physical therapy. The PTA program is a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree, which includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience.

The curriculum covers courses such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, public speaking or interpersonal communication, probability and linear mathematics or college math for healthcare, developmental psychology, and college writing. In the second year of study, students focus on more specialized subjects like neurorehabilitation for the PTA and introduction to orthopedics.

Upon completion of the program at Flathead Valley Community College, graduates will be competent in following a plan established by a physical therapist; demonstrate effective written oral communication skills with patients; recognize the need for lifelong learning; participate effectively as part of a healthcare team; educate others about PT roles; show personal commitment to health & wellness and dedication to serve their community.

Graduates are eligible to take the National Physical Therapist Assistant Licensing Exam. According to recent data from 2020-2023 academic years, graduation rates have ranged from 87.5% – 100%, while employment rates six months after passing NPTE exam have been consistently at 100%.

Admission into this competitive program requires successful completion of prerequisite courses with minimum grades/GPA requirements along with other criteria including clinical observation hours and professional references.

The Physical Therapist Assistant program at Great Falls College-Montana State University is a robust course of study designed to prepare students for successful careers in the field. Though specific details about this particular program are not available, physical therapist assistant programs typically involve coursework in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and patient care procedures.

Upon completion of the degree program, graduates should be prepared to assist physical therapists in providing treatment that improves mobility, relieves pain and prevents or limits permanent physical disabilities of patients suffering from injuries or disease. They may work in an array of settings including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies and nursing homes.

While information on career outlook specifically for graduates of Great Falls College’s program isn’t provided here; generally speaking the job prospects for physical therapist assistants are promising. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment growth much faster than average over the next decade due to increased demand driven by aging populations and individuals with chronic conditions who require therapy services.

Great Falls College-Montana State University is located at 2100 16th Avenue South in Great Falls MT; contact them directly at (406) 771-4300 for more detailed information about their Physical Therapist Assistant Program.

PTA Careers in Montana

Montana offers a diverse array of opportunities for physical therapist assistants (PTAs) across various settings.

• In urban areas like Billings and Missoula, PTAs can find employment in outpatient clinics, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers, providing essential services to patients recovering from surgeries, injuries, or chronic conditions. For instance, the Billings Clinic is a prominent healthcare facility that often seeks skilled PTAs.
• In more rural regions, such as the Flathead Valley and the towns of Kalispell and Whitefish, PTAs may work in smaller healthcare practices or community health centers, addressing the unique needs of local populations.
• Additionally, opportunities exist in schools, where PTAs assist students with physical disabilities, ensuring they receive adequate support. The scenic backdrop of Montana enhances the work environment, making it an attractive location for professionals in the field.

Overall, the demand for PTAs remains strong across the state, reflecting the growing need for rehabilitative services in both urban and rural communities.

PTA Schools in Montana

There are a number of considerations when selecting physical therapist assistant programs. Here’s a list of a couple of the most crucial considerations to take into account as you search for your PTA school:

• Program size
• Passing rates of the license exam
• Class and labroom buildings
• University expenses and potential opportunities for financial aid
• Campus admittance requirements

While you take these PTA school factors into consideration, it may be helpful to survey current college students and former students of the PTA programs of interest. Also, talking to employers who have hired these students can give you more insight to each programs strengths & weaknesses.

More PTA Info for Montana:

MT PTA Licenses
MT PTA Salaries