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Interested in helping others? Like to work closely with people on an individual basis? Want a physically active job? Are you able to be patient and encouraging? Think about being a Physical Therapist Assistant.
The Program
Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) work under the supervision of physical therapists to restore function when disease or injury result in pain and limited movement abilities. In Ohio, you have to pass a licensure exam to practice as a PTA.
Prepare to be licensed and practice as a PTA with Hocking College. You will:
- Perform data collection procedures
- Administer interventions using heat, cold, ultrasound, electrical current, water, light, massage and other hands-on techniques
- Assist patients with therapeutic exercises
- Fit and instruct patients in the use of devices such as crutches, walkers, canes and wheelchairs
- Document patient progress
Learn By Doing
Not only will you have hands- on labs located on the Hocking College campus, but also in the real world. During your 2nd year, your skills will be further developed in your clinical experiences working with actual physical therapist assistants, physical therapists and their clients.
Jobs for Grads
Out of the Gate - After graduating and passing the licensure exam, grads find jobs as physical therapist assistants working in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, residential facilities, etc.
Job Market Outlook
- Expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupation through 2014.
- Physical Therapy Assistants with prior experience working in a physical therapy office or other health care setting will have the best job opportunities.
What Can I Expect to Earn
Among other factors, salaries may vary by geographic region, cost of living, and employee’s previous experience. The following salary information is based on national averages.
Earnings of Physical Therapy Assistants in May 2004:
| $37,890 |
$31,060-$44,050 |
$24,110 |
$52,110 |
Job Outlook & Earnings from Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-07 Edition, Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos167.htm
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