The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program is a two calendar year course of study leading to an Associate in Science degree and eligibility to take the National PTA licensing examination. The degree requirements include general education, supporting courses, and Physical Therapist Assistant theory and clinical courses. Successful completion of the PTA Major Field and Supporting Courses meet the Information Competency graduation requirement.

The PTA Program at Ohlone College is limited to 24 students per class each academic year. Clinical affiliations are an essential part of the program. Students are expected to be able to travel to off-campus locations in the greater Bay Area.

Ohlone College's PTA program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) are skilled health care providers who work under the direction of a Physical Therapist (PT). Duties of the PTA include assisting the PT in implementing treatment programs, training patients in exercise and activities of daily living, conducting treatments, and reporting to the PT on the patient's response.

PTAs work in HMO's, hospitals, private physical therapy offices, community health centers, corporate and health centers, nursing homes, home health agencies, schools, pediatric centers, and colleges and universities.

Program Admission is based on a selective process and involves a special Application for Admission. Applicants are selected once a year and begin the course of study each Fall Semester. For program information and application contact the PTA program office at the Newark campus or see the PTA web page at www.ohlone.edu/pta.

Resultados del aprendizaje de los estudiantes

- Practice in a variety of settings that serve diverse patient populations.

- Practice within the laws and regulations of California and the ethical tenets of the American Physical Therapy Association.

- Apply evidence-based knowledge, skills, and demeanor that engender comprehensive assistance to the patient and the supervising physical therapist so that treatment goals may be reached effectively and expeditiously.

- Self-evaluate learning needs to advance in the profession and improve skills for providing patient care.

- Effectively communicate with patients, colleagues, and other members of the health care team using oral, written, and non-verbal communication skills.