They use therapeutic exercise, massage and physical agents such as heat, cold, water and electricity in the treatment of patients with physical disease and disability. Goals of treatment include relieving pain, improving strength and mobility, and helping patients reach their maximum physical potential while learning to live within the limits of their disabilities. In addition to strong academic skills, strong interpersonal skills are needed to keep up patient morale and counsel patients' families. Additionally, excellent written and verbal communication skills are necessary to facilitate communication in the health care environment.
Course work includes both classroom and clinical instruction.
Space in the program is limited. Acceptance is highly competitive. Admission to College of DuPage does not guarantee acceptance in the PTA program. The PTA program is designed for students who plan to enter professional practice as PTAs. PTA clinical courses are not accepted in transfer by most Physical Therapy programs.