Additional requirements include certification in CPR and other first aid and a minimum number of hours of clinical experience. According to the American Physical Therapy Association, there were 274 accredited physical therapist assistant programs in the United States as of 1999. Accredited physical therapist assistant programs are designed to last 2 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. Programs are divided into academic study and hands on clinical experience.
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 other 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. Top Employment of physical therapist assistants and aides is expected to grow much faster than the average through the year 2008. However, Federal legislation imposing limits on reimbursement for therapy services may continue to adversely affect the job market for physical therapist assistants and aides in the near term.