Physical Therapist Assistant
Associate in Applied Science Degree — Downtown Milwaukee Campus

Program code: 10-524-1

This curriculum goes into effect starting with the summer 2008 semester.

Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.

Overview — This associate degree program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Its curriculum prepares you to perform as a physical therapist assistant in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, schools, private clinics and other health agencies. Physical therapist assistants work under the supervision of a physical therapist in the delivery of physical therapy services. Their duties include assisting the physical therapist in implementing treatment programs according to the plan of care; teaching patients to perform exercises and activities of daily living; conducting treatments using special equipment and/or a variety of modalities; and reporting to the physical therapist on the patient’s progress.

Career Outlook — The need for physical therapist assistants is projected to grow due to increases in the geriatric population and the increased need for support personnel in all areas of health care. For additional career information, visit www.apta.org

Career Preparation and Expected Learning Outcomes — As a physical therapist assistant, you are expected to exhibit:

• Patient care skills
• Written and oral communications skills
• Critical thinking skills 
• Psychosocial interaction skills
• An awareness of cultural diversity
• An ability to instruct and educate patients and family
• An ability to perform lifting and transferring techniques
  

Preparation for Admission — The following are required for admission to the program:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Demonstration of proficiency in basic skills through a course placement assessment
• One year of high school-level algebra, biology and chemistry or physics
• Good health as evidenced by a medical examination
• Documentation of proper immunizations
• Documentation that the Essential Job Functions have been reviewed, in keeping with the requirements of the federal Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Documentation of compliance with Wisconsin's Caregiver Law. Helpful assets to ensure program success are strong oral and written communication skills. Personal attributes that will assist in your success include sound judgement, dependability, patience, empathy and the ability to lift and transfer patients.

Future Opportunities — Wisconsin requires licensure before the physical therapist assistant may practice in this state.

For more information, call 414-297-MATC.

Possible Careers:

Rehabilitation Manager

Related Programs:

Occupational Therapy Assistant
Registered Nursing
Practical Nursing

Curriculum effective 2008-2009.