Physical Therapist Assistant, SAAS

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

Program Description

The Specialized Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program is designed to prepare students effectively for the National Physical Therapist Assistant Exam and subsequent licensure as clinical professionals. PTAs work closely with licensed physical therapists (PTs) to implement care plans aimed at addressing movement limitations and daily activity challenges. This program combines classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical practicum to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of patient care. They learn techniques to assist patients of various ages and conditions in improving mobility, managing pain, restoring function, and preventing disability. Aligned with the standards established by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), the Specialized Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program meets the educational requirements for clinical licensure. Upon completion, graduates can pursue employment opportunities in hospitals, private practices, schools, fitness centers, long-term care facilities, and outpatient clinics, where they play a crucial role in helping patients achieve better health outcomes.

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 ENGH 1005 Literacies and Composition Across Contexts, MATH 1050 College Algebra or MATH 1055 College Algebra with Preliminaries, PSY 1010 General Psychology or PSY 1100 Human Development Life Span.
• Observation, volunteer, or work experience in physical therapy (20 hours minimum)
• Exam scores (See Advisor for current test requirements)
• Letters of Recommendation/s
• Essay

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

Program Requirements

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

Graduation Requirements

1. Completion of a minimum of 74 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.