Physical Therapist Assistant, AAS

Help patients move, recover and regain independence.

This program offers students the opportunity to earn an Associate in Applied Science degree as a physical therapist assistant. PTAs use academic training, clinical education, critical thinking, and problem solving skills to implement and adjust therapeutic interventions based on a plan of care developed by the physical therapist. Students will learn how to:

• Assist physical therapists in providing services that help improve mobility, relieve pain, and prevent or limit permanent disabilities for people of all ages.
• Assist physical therapists in implementing treatment programs and providing interventions.
• Communicate with the physical therapist and other members of the health care team regarding the patient's response to treatment and interventions.
• Properly document patient care.

Students will learn by practicing on fellow students and by applying theory and technical skills in clinic settings. Upon successful completion of this program, students are eligible to apply for Michigan licensure and take the National Physical Therapy Examination administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).

This is a high demand, high skill and high wage program as defined by the Michigan Community College Network.

Articulation Agreements

This program transfers seamlessly to:

• Eastern Michigan University, BS Degree

See WCC's Articulation Agreements for more details.

Accreditation

Financial Information

View the Program Financial Fact Sheet for the Physical Therapist Assistant program.

Learn more about Financial Aid at Washtenaw Community College.

How to Apply

To apply to the Physical Therapist Assistant (APPTA) program at WCC, students must complete two applications and admissions processes:

1. Apply to WCC: Complete the general college admissions application.
   • See steps to enroll in courses.
2. Apply to the Physical Therapist Assistant program: After completing program admission requirements, submit the program application during the designated application window.
   • Learn more about 2nd tier admissions steps.

Next Steps

Apply to WCC See Program & Courses in Catalog Request Information

What do Physical Therapist Assistants do?

• Document patient information, such as notes on their progress.
• Instruct, motivate, safeguard, and assist patients as they practice exercises or functional activities.
• Observe patients during treatments to compile and evaluate data on their responses and progress and provide results to physical therapist in person or through progress notes.

What skills do Physical Therapist Assistants have?

• Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
• Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
• Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Contact

• Allied Health Department Page
• [email protected]

Questions about applying?

Schedule an Appointment with the Recruitment and Outreach team

How much does it cost?

WCC is consistently rated one of the most affordable colleges in the country. Check out the Tuition Rates and see how WCC compares to peer institutions.