PTA Schools in New Mexico (NM)

The Physical Therapist Assistant program at Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) offers an Associate of Applied Science degree, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed for a rewarding career in physical therapy. The six-term program includes classroom learning, hands-on clinical lab work, patient simulations, and three full-time clinical education experiences under the guidance of a clinical instructor.

Admission to this competitive program is managed by CNM’s Coordinated Program Entry Office and accepts 16 students each year. It is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), ensuring that graduates meet the highest standards for their field.

The program prepares students for transfer to four-year institutions for further study in physical therapy or related fields. Graduates can pursue work in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers or home healthcare.

Recent student outcomes show high graduation rates ranging from 86.6% to 90.9%, first-time pass rates on NPTE exams between 90% and 100%, and employment within six months of licensing consistently at 100%.

CNM provides resources such as financial aid, scholarships, flexible payment plans and support staff to help overcome financial barriers to education.

In addition to its rigorous academic offerings, CNM also offers access to various services aimed at making students’ educational journey successful and enjoyable.

Clovis Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapy Assistance, designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for a career as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA). The curriculum includes basic science coursework, technical training including laboratory activities and practice, and clinical education experiences in various healthcare settings.

The program is structured over four semesters with 14 weeks of full-time clinical experience during the final semesters. Students must complete courses ranging from Human Anatomy & Physiology to Exercise & Mobility and Integrated Clinical Experience among others. To be admitted into the PTA program, applicants need a minimum GPA of 3.0, completed observation hours log sheet showing 25 hours of observation with a Physical Therapist or PTA, and all General Education courses must be completed before admission.

Graduates are prepared for careers where they work under the supervision of physical therapists providing care that includes teaching patients exercise for mobility, strength coordination etc., across various settings like hospitals,private practices,nursing homes,schools etc.

Career outlook for graduates is positive with projected employment growth nationwide at 33% between 2008-2018.The median income was $46,140 in 2008.The college’s PTA Program is accredited by Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education(CAPTE), making it eligible for licensure examination required across states.

The Physical Therapist Assistant program at Pima Medical Institute – Albuquerque Campus offers an Associate Degree, which equips students with the necessary skills to work as entry-level physical therapist assistants under a licensed physical therapist. The 18-month course includes topics such as anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, disease and conditions, medical terminology and ethics and law. Students also gain hands-on training in clinical skills like physical therapy interventions and treatment plans.

Physical Therapist Assistants aid patients recovering from injuries or illnesses by improving their movement through various exercises under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. Upon graduation from this program at Pima Medical Institute – Albuquerque Campus, graduates are eligible to apply for the National Physical Therapy Examination (for physical therapists assistants).

Employment opportunities for graduates include offices of physical therapists, hospitals, nursing care facilities home healthcare services outpatient clinics and school systems. According to U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics demand for this profession is expected to grow due to aging population’s health care needs.

Pima Medical Institute also offers an online Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy Assistant program that provides existing professionals with advanced skills while maintaining flexibility with virtual instruction.

San Juan College offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Physical Therapist Assistant program, providing students with the opportunity to gain practical experience through two externships and practice in simulation labs. The college offers both on-campus and online/hybrid program options which can be completed within five semesters. Courses include physical therapy fundamentals, clinical techniques related to therapeutic exercise, and treatment strategies.

The San Juan College Health Sciences Simulation Center provides a unique learning environment for students to practice patient care simulations under professional guidance. On completion of the program, graduates are equipped with knowledge, skills, and professional behavior necessary for entry-level physical therapist assistant positions.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment opportunities for PTAs are projected to grow 19% from 2023-2033. Graduates have found employment in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies among others; some even becoming faculty or directors at San Juan College itself.

The cost of this degree is estimated at $6,710 for in-state residents with potential scholarships available through NM Opportunity Scholarship. San Juan College is one of only four institutions offering CAPTE-accredited PTA programs in New Mexico.

PTA Careers in New Mexico

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

• In Albuquerque, the largest city, PTAs can find positions in hospitals like the University of New Mexico Hospital, providing rehabilitation services for patients recovering from surgeries or injuries.
• Santa Fe, known for its rich cultural heritage, features clinics such as the Santa Fe Rehabilitation Center, where PTAs assist in outpatient care.
• In the rural areas, such as Las Cruces, PTAs can work in community health centers, addressing the rehabilitation needs of underserved populations.

These regional examples highlight the versatility and demand for PTAs throughout New Mexico.

Deciding on PTA Schools in New Mexico

There are a few of things to consider when comparing PTA programs. Here’s a quick list of a couple of the most crucial considerations to take into account as you research for your PTA school:

• School size
• Pass-rate of the licensure test
• Classroom and lab-room buildings
• PTA School expenses and potential opportunities for financial aid
• PTA Program admission requirements

As you bring all these PTA school factors into consideration, it may be useful to talk with current students as well as former students of the physical therapy assistant programs of interest. Also, interviewing companies whom have actually hired these students may give you more insight to each programs strengths and weaknesses.

More PTA Info for New Mexico:

NM PTA Licensing
NM PTA Salaries