Physical therapist assistants' salary is $59,440 a year on average. When you consider that the average income across all occupations is $41,950, this is a strong salary for a job that only requires an associate degree and passing the National Physical Therapy Exam. You can find the best physical therapist assistant at community colleges and vocational schools.
25 Best Physical Therapist Assistant Programs
To work as a physical therapist assistant, you need to graduate from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). But the best programs are also affordable and graduate the majority of its students. Here are some of the best physical therapist assistant programs in alphabetical order:
How to Become a Physical Therapist Assistant
To become a physical therapist assistant, you must first obtain an associate degree. Physical therapist assistant degrees typically take two to three years to complete. It's possible to graduate faster, but the course load is heavy and time-intensive.
Once you complete the proper schooling, you can take the National Physical Therapy Exam. The cost for the physical therapist assistant exam is $485, and you need a score higher than 600.
After you are fully licensed, you may need to take continuing education courses to maintain your certification. The requirements for each state are different, so be sure you understand what you need to do to maintain licensure from year to year.
FAQs on Physical Therapist Assistant Programs
How to Choose the Right Physical Therapist Assistant Program
To find the best physical therapist assistant schools, look for the following:
Classes that blend hands-on-learning with traditional learning
Career placement services for alumni
Instructors with both teaching and real-world experience
Affordable classes
Schools that have both scholarship and grant opportunities
Other Ways to Become a Physical Therapist Assistant
Anyone hoping to become a physical therapist assistant must undergo the proper training from an accredited college or university before they can take the National Physical Therapy Exam. It is not possible to forgo schooling before taking the test.
Once you are state-certified to be a physical therapist assistant, you could continue your education to get a more advanced degree to become a physical therapist.
Financial Aid for Your Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Physical Therapist Assistant Scholarship
Mary McMillan Scholarship Award
Who qualifies: Students within 12 months of graduating
What it covers: $3,000
Deadline: December 1
Must be nominated by the school's faculty and have two letters supporting the nomination
Physical Therapist Assistant Grants
Pell Grant
Who qualifies: Students with financial need
What it covers: Up to $6,495 a year
Deadline: June 30
Students are automatically considered for the Pell Grant when they apply for Federal Student Aid
Workforce Shortage Student Assistance Grant Program
Who qualifies: Students in accredited Maryland postsecondary colleges or universities
What it covers: $2,000 per year
Deadline: July 1
Grant will automatically renew for up to 5 years
