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This page contains complete information and ratings from Google Reviews on PTA schools in Ohio and was last updated on: April 23rd, 2025 ✔️
Ohio currently has 22 CAPTE accredited Physical Therapist Assistant Programs that upon completion earn an associate degree and make you eligible to test for your state PTA license.
In the table of contents above and in the table below is a list of Ohio’s PTA programs, to learn more about each program click on the green Request Info button or click on a school’s name to learn more about it’s PTA program.
School | City | Rating | Director | Degree | Phone | Outcomes | Website | Address | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bryant & Stratton College - Parma | Parma | 5 | Jodi Frank PTA, MEd, ACCE | Associate in Applied Science | jgfrank@bryantstratton.edu | (216) 265-3151 | Outcomes | Website | 12955 Snow Road Parma, OH 44130-1005 |
Clark State College | Springfield | 5 | Terri Dinsmore PT, DPT, MHSPTA | Associate of Applied Science | dinsmoret@clarkstate.edu | (937) 328-6058 | Outcomes | Website | 570 East Leffel Lane PO Box 570 Springfield, OH 45501-0570 |
Cuyahoga Community College | Cleveland | 4.3 | Christopher Headrick PT, DPT | Associate of Applied Science | christopher.headrick@tri-c.edu | (216) 987-4502 | Outcomes | Website | 2900 Community College Avenue MHCS 126 Cleveland, OH 44115-3123 |
Edison State Community College | Troy | 4 | Sara Young PT, DPT | Associate of Applied Science | syoung4@edisonohio.edu | (859) 000-0000 | Outcomes | Website | 859 W Market St Troy, OH 45373 |
Hocking College | Nelsonville | 3.5 | Tamara Moyer DNP, RN, CNE, CNEcl, CPN Director and Dean, Allied Health and Nursing | Associate of Applied Science | Moyert@hocking.edu | (740) 753-3591 | Outcomes | Website | 3301 Hocking Parkway DVD 309 Nelsonville, OH 45764-9582 |
James A Rhodes State College | Lima | 4 | Andrea Liles PT, DPT | Associate of Applied Science | Liles.a@RhodesState.edu | (424) 045-3576 | Outcomes | Website | 4240 Campus Drive TL 105B Lima, OH 45804-3576 |
Kent State University | Ashtabula | 3.9 | Ashley Vlasov PTA, MPH | Associate of Applied Science | avlasov@kent.edu | (440) 964-4252 | Outcomes | Website | 3300 Lake Road West Ashtabula, OH 44004-2316 |
Kent State University - (Expansion 2) | Ashtabula | 3.8 | Ashley Vlasov PTA, MPH | Associate of Applied Science | avlasov@kent.edu | (330) 000-0000 | Outcomes | Website | 3300 Lake Rd. West Ashtabula, OH 44004-2316 |
Kent State University - (Expansion) | East Liverpool | 3.9 | Ashley Vlasov PTA, MPH | Associate of Applied Science | avlasov@kent.edu | (330) 382-7448 | Outcomes | Website | 400 East Fourth Street East Liverpool, OH 43920-3402 |
Lakeland Community College | Kirtland | 4.2 | Laurie Daigle PT, MA | Associate of Applied Science | ldaigle1@lakelandcc.edu | (440) 525-7470 | Outcomes | Website | 7700 Clocktower Dr., Building H Kirtland, OH 44094-5198 |
Lorain County Community College | Elyria | 4.3 | Carrie Firmanty PT, DPT | Associate of Applied Science | cfirmanty@lorainccc.edu | (440) 35-1613 | Outcomes | Website | Division of Allied Health and Nursing 1005 North Abbe Road Elyria, OH 44035-1613 |
Marion Technical College | Marion | 4.4 | Chad Hensel PT, DPT, MHS, CSCS | Associate of Applied Science | henselc@mtc.edu | (146) 700-0000 | Outcomes | Website | 1467 Mount Vernon Avenue Marion, OH 43302-5628 |
North Central State College | Mansfield | 4.3 | Laura Testrake DPT | Associate of Applied Science | ltestrake@ncstatecollege.edu | (888) 755-4899 | Outcomes | Website | 2441 Kenwood Circle Mansfield, OH 44906 |
Owens Community College | Perrysburg | 4.2 | Sara Burke PT, DPT | Associate in Applied Science | sara_burke@owens.edu | (567) 661-7084 | Outcomes | Website | 30335 Oregon Road Perrysburg, OH 43551 |
Owens Community College - (Expansion) | Findlay | 4.9 | Sara Burke PT, DPT | Associate in Applied Science | Sara_burke@owens.edu | (567) 661-6000 | Outcomes | Website | 3200 Bright Road Findlay, OH 45840 |
Professional Skills Institute | Maumee | 4.2 | Lydia Akers DPT, PT | Associate of Applied Science | Lydia.Akers@proskills.edu | (419) 720-6670 | Outcomes | Website | 1505 Holland Road Maumee, OH 43537 |
Shawnee State University | Portsmouth | 4.2 | Ryan Walker PT, DPT | Associate in Applied Science | rwalker@shawnee.edu | (740) 351-3225 | Outcomes | Website | Room 147 the College of Health and Human Services Building 940 Second Street Portsmouth, OH 45662-4303 |
Sinclair Community College | Dayton | 3.9 | Emily Garber PT, PhDperson | Associate in Applied Science: | emily.garber8042@sinclair.edu | (937) 512-5355 | Outcomes | Website | 444 West Third Street Building 14, Room 313B Dayton, OH 45402-1460 |
Stark State College | Canton | 4.3 | Wallace Linville PT, MA | Associate of Applied Science | wlinville@starkstate.edu | (330) 966-5458 | Outcomes | Website | Health and Pulic Services Division 6200 Frank Avenue NW Canton, OH 44720-7228 |
Terra State Community College | Fremont | 4.5 | Brian Hall MPT/ | Associate of Applied Science | bhall01@terra.edu | (419) 707-3229 | Outcomes | Website | 2830 Napoleon Road Fremont, OH 43420 |
University of Cincinnati Clermont College | Batavia | 4.1 | Carolyn Shisler PT, MEd, Assistant Professor | Associate of Applied Science | Carolyn.Shisler@uc.edu | (420) 045-1003 | Outcomes | Website | 4200 Clermont College Drive Batavia, OH 45103 |
Zane State College | Zanesville | 4.4 | Helen Rollins PTA | Associate of Applied Science | hrollins@zanestate.edu | (800) 686-8324 | Outcomes | Website | 1555 Newark Road Zanesville, OH 43701-2626 |
Bryant & Stratton College – Parma
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at Bryant & Stratton College in Parma, Ohio offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines classroom learning, hands-on lab experience and integrated clinical training. The 20-month program requires 71 credit hours to complete and prepares students for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) licensure exam.
Students gain expertise in patient care techniques such as electrotherapy, therapeutic massage, and exercise-based rehabilitation across various medical settings like outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, hospitals etc. The PTA degree also provides opportunities to join professional organizations like the American Physical Therapy Association.
Key courses include Introduction to Physical Therapy, Fundamentals of Physical Therapy, Clinical Medicine/Pharmacology among others. Students are expected to demonstrate professional behavior consistent with ethical standards of physical therapy practice upon graduation.
Bryant & Stratton College offers both on-campus classes or online learning options across its campuses in Wisconsin, New York and Ohio. Graduates from this program can work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists in hospitals or nursing homes helping patients perform exercises or instructing them on using assistive devices.
The PTA Program at Bryant & Stratton College-Parma Campus is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.
Clark State College
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at Clark State College is a comprehensive and competitive course that combines didactic and clinical learning experiences. The curriculum includes courses such as PTA Survey, Muscle Anatomy and Biomechanics, PTA Procedures I & II, Anatomy and Physiology I & II among others. Graduates will be prepared to administer treatments, instruct patients in exercises and activities of daily living under the supervision of a physical therapist.
Upon successful completion of all aspects of the program, graduates are eligible to take the state licensing examination which is mandatory for practice as a physical therapist assistant in Ohio. The application deadline for any given year is February 1st with applications being accepted from December 1st.
In terms of outcomes, students can expect proficient entry-level knowledge in implementing treatment practices appropriate to the plan of care established by the physical therapist; effective communication skills with patients, families and other healthcare providers; adherence to ethical standards throughout provision of services among others.
The career outlook looks promising with recent statistics showing an employment rate of 100% within one year post-graduation for those who sought employment as PTAs. Unique features about this school’s program include onsite labs currently offered only in Springfield and Columbus Ohio; national contracts with several organizations allowing clinical placements outside these regions; diversity recognition amongst students faculty community etc.
Cuyahoga Community College
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Physical Therapist Assisting Technology. The program starts each fall semester, accepting up to 24 new students annually on a first-come basis. Students gain clinical experience with real patients at over 75 sites throughout Northeast Ohio, including all major medical centers. The program boasts a state-of-the-art laboratory facility equipped with the latest technology and equipment.
A physical therapist assistant is a licensed healthcare professional who helps people recover from accidents, injuries, illnesses, strokes and other debilitating events by providing skilled physical therapy treatment. This can include therapeutic exercise, gait and balance training, transfer training and heat or cold therapies among others.
The Tri-C PTA Program also provides students the unique opportunity to learn in a supervised environment while delivering physical therapy treatment to community members through its Preventative Care Center (PCC). In addition to this hands-on experience, students also have the chance for interdisciplinary collaboration with doctoral physical therapy students and faculty from Cleveland State University.
Graduates are prepared for careers as Physical Therapist Assistants where they will promote wellness, ease pain improve mobility increase strength and restore function for their patients. Career outlooks are promising due to increasing demand in the field.
Edison State Community College
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
Edison State Community College offers a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program, accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. The program prepares students to provide physical therapy services under the supervision of physical therapists in various settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, and schools.
The curriculum includes courses like Introduction to Health Care, Anatomy & Physiology I & II, Biomechanics, Kinesiology & Pathology among others. Students must maintain a 2.0 GPA throughout the program and meet health requirements including current CPR and First Aid certifications.
Outcomes include performing safely in all situations; adapting delivery of services considering patients’ needs; participating in self-assessment to improve knowledge and skills; demonstrating clinical problem-solving abilities; applying selected therapeutic exercises competently among other critical skills.
Applicants need satisfactory high school records or GED scores with completion of required high school courses or developmental equivalents. They also need work experience/volunteer hours in at least two physical therapy settings within three years prior to admission into the program.
Graduates are prepared for rewarding careers as PTAs given their training on ethical conduct, critical thinking especially when responding to emergency situations – making them valuable additions to any healthcare team.
This PTA program is exclusively offered at Edison State’s Troy location which adds uniqueness as students can focus solely on this specific field without distractions from other programs.
Hocking College
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Hocking College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). The program prepares students to work under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist, helping patients restore function when disease or injury causes pain and limited movement abilities. Students learn how to carry out care plans and report patient responses back to their supervising therapists.
Admission into this program requires an official high school transcript or GED, completion of prerequisite courses with a minimum “B” grade, volunteer hours in a physical therapy department or clinic, two positive recommendations from a physical therapist or assistant not related to the applicant but under whom they observed/volunteered or were employed. Students must also complete the Test of Essential Academic Skills (Allied Health TEAS).
Hocking College offers all-inclusive pricing for tuition and fees based on student status and year in the program. Career options after graduation include working in hospitals, outpatient clinics, home health settings, nursing homes, rehabilitation facilities and school systems.
Unique aspects about this college’s PTA program include adherence to nondiscrimination policies based on disability following ADA guidelines as well as Ohio Revised Code mandates that require students be 18 years old for clinical education participation.
James A Rhodes State College
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
The Physical Therapist Assistant program at James A. Rhodes State College prepares students to be competent in the delivery of delegated physical therapy services, including therapeutic exercise, balance and gait training, postural training, body mechanics etc. The curriculum combines general education with applied physical therapy sciences, technical skills and clinical education courses. Students gain supervised clinical learning experiences through various settings and patient populations.
Each spring semester the program accepts 30 students who meet all eligibility requirements. Program admission is based on when each requirement is received by the program coordinator or faculty.
Unique aspects of this program include collaboration with University of Findlay DPT students for intra-professional skill development and participation in community service learning activities.
Career opportunities are available in diverse healthcare settings like hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers etc., as part of a dynamic health care team. According to U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics employment for PTAs will increase due to increased demand for rehabilitation services.
After successful completion of both didactic and clinical components along with attainment Associate in Applied Science degree from Rhodes State College , students can apply for National Physical Therapy Examination administered by Federation Of State Boards Of Physical Therapy . In Ohio licensure is required to practice physical therapy which enables PTA’s seek employment across variety health care settings .
The program has accreditation from Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
Kent State University
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
Kent State University offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Physical Therapist Assistant Technology, designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become licensed or certified as a physical therapist assistant. The program is offered at both the Ashtabula and East Liverpool campuses. It features state-of-the-art laboratories, clinical experiences at local facilities, and guidance from experienced faculty.
The curriculum includes lecture, lab work, seminars and practicum courses taught over four sequential semesters in a two-year cycle. Students are required to be on campus or in clinic three to five days per week each term.
An optional concentration for board-certified athletic trainers can be completed primarily online within 15 months. This adds physical therapy assistant skills to their existing competencies.
On completion of the program, graduates should be able to provide appropriate physical therapy interventions under supervision; communicate effectively; produce legal documentation; ethically manage resources; and demonstrate value-based behaviors such as altruism and integrity.
The PTA program has been accredited since 1988 by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Job growth rate for this profession is predicted at 23%. Kent State’s PTA graduates enjoy high salaries particularly in home health care services and nursing care facilities due to increased demand attributed largely to aging baby boomers requiring more physical therapy services.
Lakeland Community College
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
Lakeland Community College offers a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program that can be completed in five semesters. Students graduate with an Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assisting degree, which makes them eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Licensure Examination for PTAs – a requirement for state licensure. The curriculum includes both physical therapist assistant and general education courses, all requiring a minimum GPA of 2.0 and grade ‘C’ or higher.
The PTA program is housed in Lakeland’s state-of-the-art health technologies building where students learn using the latest equipment. Graduates are trained to provide clinical care and interventions under the supervision of licensed physical therapists across various age groups.
Students must complete a criminal background check prior to enrolling due to clinical site requirements; those with criminal records may face restrictions on participating in clinical education experiences.
Career prospects for PTAs are promising, with salaries varying based on factors such as position, experience level, geographic location and practice setting.
The PTA program at Lakeland Community College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). For more information about tuition costs, graduation rates and employment outcomes visit their website or contact them directly via phone or email.
Lorain County Community College
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
Lorain County Community College offers a robust Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for careers as physical therapist assistants, who work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists. Students enrolled in this program earn an Associate of Applied Science degree upon successful completion.
The course content includes theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for PTAs such as anatomy, physiology, therapeutic exercise, kinesiology, pathology and more. It also includes clinical experiences that allow students to apply their learned skills in real-world settings.
Graduates from this PTA program have been found well-prepared for their careers. They demonstrate competency in safe and effective patient care, ethical decision-making abilities and strong communication skills with patients and healthcare professionals alike.
Career prospects are promising for those completing the PTA program at Lorain County Community College. There’s a growing demand for PTAs due to increasing health needs among aging populations and advances in medical technology enabling better recovery outcomes.
Unique aspects about this school include its commitment towards individual student success through personalized attention given by highly qualified faculty members. Additionally, Lorain County Community College provides state-of-the-art facilities equipped with modern technologies that facilitate optimal learning environments for aspiring PTAs.
Marion Technical College
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
Marion Technical College offers a two-year, full-time Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program. The curriculum includes core technical courses along with science, health terminology, computer and general classes. Students also complete various clinical experiences throughout the course of study. Upon graduation, students are eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) of the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) to become licensed as a PTA.
The program also allows students to simultaneously earn additional certifications in Exercise Science and Healthcare Management alongside their PTA degree – enhancing employability and career opportunities post-graduation. However, admission into the PTA program requires completion of specific prerequisite courses like Anatomy and Physiology I, Statistics, English Composition I among others.
Learning outcomes include knowledge provision appropriate for patient age groups served; performing selected measurement procedures; using appropriate treatment modalities; maintaining working knowledge about federal state laws regarding physical therapy profession etc.
Career opportunities upon completion include roles such as physical therapy aides or assistants or even becoming a physical therapist via bridge programs. Note that all students admitted into the program will be required to submit fingerprints for criminal records checks by both Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification & Investigation (BCI) & Federal Bureau Of Investigation(FBI).
North Central State College
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
North Central State College offers a comprehensive Physical Therapist Assistant program, leading to an Associate of Applied Science degree. The curriculum includes rigorous coursework in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and other health sciences as well as specialized courses in physical therapy techniques and practices. In addition to classroom instruction, students must complete mandatory observation hours at approved facilities before applying for the program.
The program has limited enrollment with only 28 students admitted each year. Applications and observation hours must be completed by February for admission into the Fall semester. Clinical rotations begin during the second year of study and can take place throughout Ohio or even out-of-state upon request.
Program outcomes are impressive; graduates have consistently achieved high pass rates on licensure exams (around 80%) with a remarkable employment rate of 100% within six months post-exam passage date. Furthermore, North Central State College’s PTA program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
Career prospects look promising with estimated earnings ranging from $49k-$60k annually after completion of this associate degree. Students intending to practice outside Ohio should note that additional requirements may apply.
Unique features include potential eligibility for the Choose Ohio First Scholarship and opportunities for extensive hands-on clinical experience across different physical therapy settings.
Owens Community College
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
Owens Community College offers a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in the field of physical therapy rehabilitation. The PTA program equips students with the skills required to work under the supervision of physical therapists, aiding in patient mobility improvement and functional rehabilitation.
The curriculum includes various prescribed therapy exercises focusing on strength, coordination, balance, and flexibility. Students also learn how to apply different modalities aimed at reducing pain and inflammation while promoting healing. Furthermore, they are trained on educating patients about preventive measures against further injuries.
Graduates can find employment opportunities in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, sports medicine facilities, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, schools or provide in-home care services. Upon graduation from Owens Community College’s PTA program, students become eligible to sit for the state licensing examination.
This well-regarded program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy (CAPTE), ensuring its quality and effectiveness. The college prides itself on offering an excellent learning environment led by experienced faculty members who offer personalized attention towards each student’s success.
Professional Skills Institute
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
The Physical Therapist Assistant program at Professional Skills Institute (PSI) is a 72-week course that provides comprehensive training for aspiring physical therapy assistants. The program, which culminates in an Associate of Applied Science degree, includes 656 hours of clinical training in actual physical therapy departments and clinics. This hands-on experience allows students to apply the skills they’ve learned during their campus labs while working with real patients.
Courses cover topics such as Structural Anatomy and Physiology, Rehabilitation Therapy, Therapeutic Exercise, PTA Techniques, Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation and Neurologic Rehabilitation among others. Graduates have opportunities to work in various settings including physical therapy clinics, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities and home health care.
Unique aspects of PSI’s program include fully equipped labs featuring tools you can expect to use on the job as a Physical Therapist Assistant; experienced instructors who have worked in the field; shadowing qualified professionals; and a dedicated clinical coordinator who assists students with matching suitable clinical sites based on their location and schedules.
After graduation from this CAPTE-accredited program active through June 30th ,2030 students can further pursue Bachelor’s of Science in Health Sciences degree completion online within 18 months or start working immediately due to high demand for PTAs especially with older populations staying more active than previous generations.
Shawnee State University
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
Shawnee State University offers a comprehensive Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program through its College of Health and Human Services. The PTA curriculum, which can be completed in five academic semesters including clinical field work, equips students with the necessary skills to play a key role in patient recovery from injuries or diseases affecting neurological or musculoskeletal systems. Graduates are awarded an Associate in Applied Science Degree as a physical therapist assistant and are eligible to apply for the National Physical Therapist Assistant Examination.
PTAs find employment opportunities in various settings such as hospitals, outpatient care clinics, rehabilitation facilities, home health agencies, nursing homes, and school systems. The mission of Shawnee’s PTA Program is to develop lifelong learners who are professional and sensitive to changes within the healthcare environment.
Unique aspects of this program include potential scholarships up to full-tuition for qualifying students accepted into SSU’s PTA program. Furthermore, Shawnee State University has been ranked among U.S News & World Report’s Best Colleges for six consecutive years indicating its commitment towards quality education.
The university also hosts events like Rehab Sciences Day providing further learning experiences for its students. Additionally, it has received accreditation by both CAPTE and IACBE ensuring that their programs meet high educational standards.
Sinclair Community College
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
Sinclair Community College offers a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program that culminates in an Associate of Applied Science degree. The curriculum, which can be completed in five full-time semesters, comprises both general education and technical courses, including classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical education experiences. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Examination for Physical Therapist Assistants for licensure.
The PTA program aims to produce graduates who demonstrate professionalism and competence in interprofessional collaboration. They should also exhibit effective communication skills – written, oral and nonverbal – as well as sound critical thinking abilities and evidence-based decision-making skills.
Graduates can seek employment under the supervision of a physical therapist in various settings such as outpatient clinics, rehabilitation units in hospitals or nursing homes, assisted living facilities or school-based programs once licensed by the State of Ohio.
Admission into this program is through two pathways: general admissions pathway and Accelerated Admission for Academic Achievement (AAAA). Sinclair has formal articulation agreements with other colleges indicating how its programs will transfer to those institutions.
Unique aspects include requirements like being at least 18 years old before starting PTA technical courses along with meeting certain prerequisites detailed on their website. The college’s PTA Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.
Stark State College
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
Stark State College offers a comprehensive Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for a career in physical therapy. The PTA program involves training students to work under the supervision of physical therapists, helping patients rehabilitate from illnesses or injuries, educating them about preventive measures, performing selected treatments using specialized equipment and documenting patient progress.
The curriculum includes courses that cover safe and ethical practices in accordance with the American Physical Therapy Association’s standards. Students are also taught effective communication techniques with patients, family members, caregivers, and other healthcare providers. On successful completion of all didactic, laboratory and clinical requirements of the program, graduates aged 18 years or older become eligible to apply for licensure examinations.
Licensure is mandatory before practicing as a PTA in Ohio which requires passing both the Ohio Jurisprudence Examination and National Physical Therapy Examination. There are various fees associated with obtaining this license which are borne by the student.
Applicants need to meet specific eligibility criteria outlined in program prerequisite requirements; recent changes mandate that students must be at least 18 years old to participate in Clinical Education or apply for licensure as a PTA.
The Stark State College’s PTA Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), ensuring quality education within this field.
Terra State Community College
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
Terra State Community College offers a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program that leads to an Associate of Applied Science degree. This rigorous six-semester program prepares students for careers assisting physical therapists in helping individuals regain maximum physical function and leading healthier, more active lifestyles. The PTA Program’s technical courses are offered on-campus only, with each class having a maximum of 15 students.
Graduates are eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for PTAs are projected to grow by 24% from 2021 to 2031 due to increasing demand for physical therapy among older populations and those with chronic conditions like diabetes and obesity.
The PTA Program at Terra State is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). However, it should be noted that after careful consideration, Terra State has decided to conclude its PTA program at the end of the academic year 2024–2025. Current cohorts will continue their studies until this time but no additional student applications will be accepted.
Despite its impending conclusion, this program boasts impressive outcomes; over recent years it has achieved high graduation rates as well as consistently strong licensure pass rates and post-graduation employment rates.
University of Cincinnati Clermont College
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program at the University of Cincinnati Clermont College is a rigorous course that prepares students for a career in physical therapy. The program admits students annually through a competitive process, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.0 and strong performance in relevant science courses.
Under the guidance of Program Director Carolyn Shisler, an experienced PT with over 30 years in practice, students learn about acute care physical therapy and treating medically complex patients. In addition to academic learning, the program emphasizes collaboration within healthcare teams and advocates for recognizing the significant contributions PTAs bring to patient care.
Admission into this selective program requires satisfactory academic performance as well as essential functions such as critical thinking/problem-solving skills, interpersonal skills, behavioral/emotional/social coping skills, communication skills, physical mobility/motor skills sensory abilities and professionalism which are integral for successful clinical practice.
This intensive PTA Program ensures graduates are capable of providing safe and effective treatment by equipping them with necessary cognitive psychomotor and affective abilities required in clinical settings. The university is committed to making reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities without compromising on these essential job duties.
With its robust curriculum focused on holistic patient-centered care backed by expert faculty like Prof.Shisler who continues her active role in acute care setting while teaching,the PTA program offers excellent preparation for those seeking rewarding careers helping people recover from medical conditions or surgeries through physical therapy.
Zane State College
- Degrees Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Duration: 2 years
Zane State College offers an on-campus Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program. The 64-credit hour program costs approximately $14,745 and provides students with the knowledge and skills required for a rewarding career in physical therapy. Students are taught about the intricacies of body structure and functionality, enabling them to enhance patients’ lives and well-being.
The PTA program at Zane State includes over 650 clinical hours at three separate sites, providing extensive hands-on experience. It also boasts a 100% license exam pass rate (two-year average), reflecting its high standard of education.
Class sizes are small – no more than 20 students per lecture course and ten per lab section – allowing for individualized attention from faculty members. However, entry into this selective health program requires an additional application beyond college acceptance.
Unique features include bridge programs available for PTAs pursuing a Doctorate of Physical Therapy through partnerships with University of Findlay in Ohio or The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston in Texas.
The PTA Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Application deadlines are annually set as April 1st.
PTA Careers in Ohio
Ohio offers a diverse range of employment opportunities for physical therapist assistants (PTAs) across various healthcare settings.
- In urban areas like Columbus, PTAs can find positions in large hospitals such as OhioHealth and Mount Carmel Health, where they collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to provide rehabilitation services.
- In the Cleveland region, facilities like the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals employ PTAs to assist in specialized care for orthopedic and neurological conditions.
- Additionally, rural areas, such as those in southern Ohio, feature rehabilitation clinics that serve local communities, providing PTAs with the chance to make a significant impact in underserved populations.
With a blend of urban and rural settings, Ohio is an ideal state for PTAs seeking a fulfilling career in rehabilitation.
Considering a PTA School in Ohio
There are a number of factors to consider when comparing PTA programs. Here is a short list of a couple of the most crucial considerations to always remember as you research for your physical therapist assistant school:
- PTA School size
- Pass-rate of the National License exam
- Lecture room and lab-room resources
- Program costs and opportunities for financial aid
- PTA School admittance criteria
While you take these PTA program things into thought, it can be useful to talk with present-day students and recent graduates of the physical therapy assistant schools of interest. Also, talking to employers who have employed these graduates can give you more insight to each school.