Why Study Physical Therapy Assisting?
Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs) can have a profound effect on people’s lives. PTAs implement individualized plans designed by Physical Therapists, helping patients achieve fitness goals, regain or maintain their independence, and lead active lives.
PTAs work in diverse settings including hospitals, private PT practices, community health agencies, schools, pediatric facilities, nursing homes, industrial or corporate health facilities and rehabilitation centers. It is the diversity that makes the field of physical therapy interesting and enticing for many students.
This career offers excellent work/life balance, as services are most often scheduled on weekdays.
The median annual wage for physical therapist assistants was $58,520 in May 2019. Overall employment of physical therapist assistants is projected to grow 30 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for physical therapists expected to increase in response to the healthcare needs of an older population and individuals with chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity.
Columbia-Greene Community College has an agreement with Berkshire Community College (BCC) for cooperation inBCC’s Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program. CGCC students who are accepted by BCC are guaranteed transfer of up to 33 credits, provided that they have earned a grade of C or better.