Physical Therapist Assistant, SAAS

Visit the Physical Therapist Assistant page for more information on the program and access to advising

Matriculation Requirements

Matriculation requirements are designed to ensure applicants who are admitted into the PTA program can be successful and meet the rigor required of the technical classes. This program uses a merit-based, competitive admission process. Applications may be submitted prior to the completion of the prerequisite courses listed below, but the students must complete all prerequisite courses prior to starting the PTA program and have obtained a C (74%) or better in all the courses.

Matriculation Requirements:

• Be admitted to Utah Valley University.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 in prerequisite courses (no grades below C)
• Complete the following courses: ZOOL 2320 Human Anatomy/ ZOOL 2325 Human Anatomy Laboratory, HLSC 1300 Medical Terminology and Functional Anatomy, ENGL 1010 Introduction to Academic Writing or ENGL 1005 Foundations of Academic Writing, MATH 1050 College Algebra or MATH 1055 College Algebra with Preliminaries or STAT 1040 or STAT 1045, PSY 1010 General Psychology or PSY 1100 Human Development Life Span, COMM 1020 Public Speaking.
• Observation, volunteer, or work experience in physical therapy (20 hours minimum)
• Exam scores for TEAS test 
• Interview/Essay

 
Upon Conditional Acceptance:
Criminal background check
Health/immunization requirements
CPR certification
Drug screening 

Program Description

The Physical Therapist Assistant, AAS combines classroom instruction, laboratory training, and clinical practice to prepare students to assist licensed physical therapists in delivering patient care. Students gain skills to enhance mobility, manage pain, restore function, and prevent disability in diverse settings. Graduates are equipped for careers in hospitals, clinics, schools, and rehabilitation facilities, promoting patient health and recovery. This program meets all educational requirements for licensure and prepares graduates for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for Physical Therapist Assistants.

Program Requirements

¹

Students must complete these requirements before enrolling in the discipline core courses.

Graduation Requirements

1. Completion of a minimum of 72 semester credits.
2. Must earn a C or higher in ALL discipline courses, general education courses, and pre-requisite courses.
3. Residency hours: minimum of 20 credit hours through course attendance at UVU.
4. Completion of specified departmental requirements.

Graduation Plan

This graduation plan is a sample plan and is intended to be a guide. Your specific plan may differ based on your Math and English placement and/or transfer credits applied. You are encouraged to meet with an advisor and set up an individualized graduation plan in Wolverine Track.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Provide high-quality, patient-centered care as entry-level physical therapist assistants, under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist.
2. Demonstrate appropriate professional conduct and behaviors reflecting the highest standards of the physical therapy profession.
3. Collaborate as members of the physical therapy profession and healthcare team through effective communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.