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Physical Therapist Assistant Schools in California – CA

By an allied health world contributing writer
Published: February, 2 2010

All physical therapy assistants in California must complete an educational training program accredited by The American Physical Therapy Association’s Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.  Such programs will take around two years to complete and will result in an associate’s degree. 

Potential PTAs who feel they need some extra help or do not quite meet the prerequisites to gain acceptance to a physical therapy assistant program may consider a PTA certificate program.  Such programs are geared towards those looking to re-enter the workforce after an extended absence, those who don’t meet the prerequisites for PTA programs, and those who struggle with math and science courses.  Certificate programs offer instruction in anatomy, biology, chemistry, English composition, general psychology, and medical vocabulary.  They typically take a year or less to complete and will result in a physical therapy assistant certificate. 

PTA education programs consist of classroom instruction and clinical hands-on experience.  Coursework will include instruction in the following:

• Algebra
• Anatomy
• Biology
• Chemistry
• English
• Kinesiology
• Neurological Concepts
• Orthopedics
• Pathology
• Pediatrics
• Psychology
• Physical Therapy Techniques
• Physiology

Clinical experiences will cover application of all of the above and typically take place in treatment centers that allow for essential hands-on experience.  Clinical experience is supervised by licensed physical therapists or educational instructors.   There are several California physical therapy assistant schools available.

Through campus based and online programs, aspiring Physical Therapy Assistants in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose and San Francisco, California may be able to prepare themselves for the possibility of employment in some of the largest hospitals and healthcare facilities in the state including Laguna Honda Hospital, Community Regional Medical Center, L.A. County & USC Medical Center, and Huntington Hospital.