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Physical Therapist Assistant Schools in Maryland – MD

By an allied health world contributing writer
Published: January, 18 2010

Maryland Physical Therapy Assistant School

To enter a certified training program to become a Physical Therapy Assistant in Maryland, a high school diploma or certification equivalent to a diploma is required. Most educational programs in Maryland require a minimum GPA of 2.5 prior to entering. Depending on the training program entered, ACT/SAT score minimums may need to be accomplished. Upon entering and completing a certified program, graduates will receive an associate’s degree in the profession. After completing the program, the national exam must be taken to become certified and obtain a state license. This license is needed in order to legally practice in the state.

Maryland has multiple schools offering accredited training programs for those interested in becoming licensed Physical Therapy Assistants. The majority of these programs follow the same basic curriculum. The first year of training often includes in-depth academic work. Courses include First Aid, Anatomy, and Physiology. Other academic courses required are Kinesiology, Psychology, and Therapeutic Intervention. Other courses needed to graduate are Exercise Science, Musculoskeletal Systems, and Medical Terminology. Basic Science and Math courses, including Algebra and Chemistry, are required to graduate with an associate’s degree. The academic courses will include learning multiple treatment options and techniques.

The second year of the program covers the skills students need to succeed in the career. Students will often take part in clinical programs to gain hands-on experience. Under the supervision of a licensed professional, students will learn therapeutic techniques. These techniques include heat therapy, tissue massages, and the ability to maintain patient records. Students will gain the knowledge necessary to manipulate limbs and joints for therapeutic purposes. Students will need to exercise the ability to properly communicate with patients while assisting them with treatment options.

Through campus based and online programs, aspiring Physical Therapy Assistants in Baltimore, Columbia, Silver Spring and Ellicot City, Maryland may be able to prepare themselves for the possibility of employment in some of the largest hospitals and healthcare facilities in the state including the Franklin Square Hospital Center, Holy Cross Hospital, John Hopkins Medicine and Prince George’s Hospital Center.