Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant

Our Program    How and When to Apply    Background Preparation    Clinical Work Experience    Faculty     Job Outlook

Become a Physical Therapist Assistant. A physical therapist assistant (PTA) uses a variety of equipment and exercise to help people with conditions limiting their ability to move and perform activities. As a PTA, you’ll work under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist.

Our Program

Our five-semester associate degree program includes classroom instruction, practice in skills lab and clinical experience. You’ll learn the art and science of therapy treatment. You’ll have the knowledge, skill, and attitudes needed to help physical therapists provide treatment to improve patient mobility, relieve pain and prevent or lessen physical disabilities.

Once you successfully complete this program, you have the opportunity to advance into the Bachelor of Science in Allied Health Completion, Health Care Administration or Health Science degree programs at Mercy College.

How and When to Apply

We accept 14 students into the PTA program each fall semester. Applications to the PTA  program must be received by the Office of Admissions by July 1. Your admission into this program is on a competitive basis, so early application is encouraged. Following general College admission, students may enroll in Liberal Arts and Science (LAS) courses in the Division of Liberal Arts and Sciences prior to admission into the PTA program.

Background Preparation

You need to successfully complete high school (or college equivalent) algebra I, biology, English and physics coursework before admission. Students are encouraged to take LAS courses at Mercy College to meet any unmet program requirements above.

Clinical Work Experience

You will experience direct patient contact during your clinical experience at Mercy Medical Center and its affiliates. You will also work at many other leading health care providers in central Iowa to gain hands-on learning throughout your course of study.

Faculty

Our PTA team includes a full-time program chair and an instructor as well as many medical professionals in the clinical setting. As a student, you will receive an exceptional level of personalized instruction.

Job Outlook

Once you have completed your PTA degree, you’ll have the knowledge and experience needed to become qualified for employment as an entry-level physical therapist assistant. Job prospects for physical therapist assistants are expected to be very good as consumer demand increases. For more details and statistics about specific roles and job opportunities go to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics website.