Courses in patient handling techniques, the role of the PTA, neuromusculoskeletal function and rehabilitation give students a broad knowledge of health-care challenges they will encounter. Courses in humanities, social and natural sciences help students develop critical thinking and communication skills while completing work toward the associate of applied science degree. Students also must complete course work in natural sciences, humanities and social sciences. Employment Prospects With increases in the number of older people and babies born with birth defects, the demand for physical therapist assistants continues. In addition to favorable employment prospects over the next decade, salaries are good.
Physical therapy is one of the nation s fastest-growing careers.