A physical therapist can also enter the field with a master's or a doctoral degree. Physical therapy assistants, or PTA's, are skilled health care providers who work under the supervision of physical therapists. Duties of the PTA include assisting the PT in implementing treatment programs, training patients in exercises and activities of daily living, conducting treatments, and reporting to the physical therapist on the patient's responses. In addition to direct patient care, the physical therapist assistant may also perform such functions as patient transport and clinic or equipment preparation and maintenance. Physical therapist assistants must complete a two year education program, typically offered through a community or junior college.
Candidates receive an associate's degree upon graduation.
In Kansas, candidates must pass a state board exam to become certified to practice.