Overview

About the program

Licensed physical therapist assistants function under the direct supervision of a licensed physical therapist to facilitate patient treatment plans that address various limitations stemming from illness and/or injury; educate patients about the various treatment modalities; and motivate clients as part of their “recovery team.”

Program format(s)

Students enrolled in this program will take traditional, 16-week classes each semester.  

Degree option

Two-year, full time degree schedule; and, mixture of core technical courses along with science, health terminology, computer and general classes. PTA students complete varied clinical experiences. Program graduates are eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) of the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) to become licensed as a physical therapist assistant (PTA). Licensed PTAs have a wide variety of employment opportunities.

License/Credentialing Eligibility

Occupational Certification Opportunities

Simultaneous Certifications

• Marion Tech’s PTA program is designed to allow you to simultaneously complete your PTA degree PLUS these additional certifications at the same time including:
  • Exercise Science Certificate
  • HealthCare Management Certificate
  • or both!

By earning additional certifications within MTC’s program, you’ll increase your employability and the number of career opportunities available to you after earning your degree.

Drug Screening

Students admitted into the PTA program will be required to submit to a drug screening prior to their clinical rotation. Positive drug screenings will result in forfeiture of the clinical rotation and dismissal from any course with a laboratory component. All PTA students may be subject to periodic drug screens for cause during the program. Any student who refuses/fails to cooperate or complete any required drug screening will be considered “positive” and dismissed from the program.

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Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide service/care appropriate to the age of the patients served.
• Perform selected measurement procedures in consultation with the evaluating physical therapist.
• Use appropriate modalities that include but are not limited to heat, cold, light, water, sound, and electricity, as well as therapeutic exercise and exercise equipment.
• Modify or adjust treatment within the limits of the plan of care based on the patient’s reactions and seek guidance when necessary.
• Complete any and all required written documentation accurately and legibly.
• Recognize abnormal physiological changes and report them to the evaluating physical therapist and other appropriate personnel.
• Maintain working knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding the profession.

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Career Opportunities

• Physical Therapy Aides
• Physical Therapist Assistants
• Physical Therapist via Bridge Programs
• Physical Therapists-- bridge options

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Application Requirements - Limited Enrollment

• Beginning with student applying to start in Fall 2025:  The following courses must be completed PRIOR to application to the PTA Program (and passed with a “C” or better):

SCI 1200/BIO1240—Anatomy and Physiology I

MTH 1240—Statistics

ENG 1000—English Composition I

HLT 1100—Health Terminology (Medical Terminology may be substituted)

PSY 1100—Introduction to Psychology

• Successful completion of four years of high school, or a standard equivalency test, or certification of equivalent education by an organization recognized by the U.S. Dept. of Ed.
• Minimum grade point average of 2.5 (on 4.0 scale) or equivalent from either high school or college. If a college GPA is used to meet this requirement, it must be based upon a minimum of 12 semester or 12 quarter hours earned at one institution.
• Completion of high school or college statistics or algebra, chemistry, and biology with a minimum grade of ‘‘C’’ and/or placement into college level math and science.
• Submission of a total of TWO (2) Physical Therapy Observation Verification and Recommendation Forms reflecting a total of 40 or more clinical hours completed under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist (PT) or licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA). (The Observation Verification and Recommendation forms must be signed by a supervising licensed PT or PTA). NOTE: A minimum composite score of 18.75/25 is required for admission.
• Submission of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program Application including a signed copy of the MTC Health Programs Agreement to Respect Confidentiality form.
• Completion of all MTC general admission requirements, including MTC Application for Admission and nonrefundable application fee.
• Completion of successful criminal background check. Students admitted into the program are required to submit to a criminal background check facilitated by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Identification. Students with certain felony, misdemeanor, or drug-related arrests will be ineligible for admission into the program.
• Demonstrate college-readiness by achieving the required minimum score on a placement test, successfully completing any required college foundation courses, or satisfying other measures including but not limited to high school coursework, previous college coursework, samples of work, etc. Contact the PTA program director to determine if this testing is required in your particular situation.
• It is recommended that candidates complete the American College Test (ACT) and indicate on the test application that scores be submitted to MTC. The ACT should be completed far enough in advance to ensure that test scores reach MTC prior to the PTA program application deadline.
• Transfer credit from other colleges will be evaluated after receipt of official transcripts.

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