Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement Physical therapist assistants typically have earned an associate's degree from an accredited physical therapist assistant program. Other requirements include certification in CPR and First Aid, and a minimum number of hours of clinical experience. According to the American Physical Therapy Association , there were 225 accredited physical therapist assistant programs in the United States as of July, 1997. Accredited physical therapist assistant programs are designed to last two years, or four semesters, and culminate in an associate's degree. Admission into physical therapist assistant programs is competitive and it is not unusual for colleges to have long waiting lists of prospective candidates.
Academic coursework includes algebra, anatomy and physiology, biology, chemistry, and psychology.
Before students begin their clinical field experience, many programs require that they complete a semester of anatomy and physiology and have certifications in CPR and First Aid. Both educators and prospective employers view clinical experience as an integral part of ensuring that students understand the responsibilities of a physical therapist assistant. Employers typically require physical therapist aides to have a high school diploma, strong interpersonal skills, and a desire to assist people in need. Job Outlook Physical therapist assistants and aides are expected to be among the fastest growing occupations through the year 2006. Demand for physical therapist assistants and aides will continue to rise with growth in the number of individuals with disabilities or limited function.