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  • College of Technology
    Idaho State University
    921 South 8th Ave., Stop 8380
    Pocatello, ID 83209-8380
    Phone: (208) 282-2622
    Fax: (208) 282-5195
    
    E-mail: ctech@isu.edu

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More Information

The Program

The physical therapist assistant is a part of the health care team that plans and implements a patient care program. Under the supervision of a physical therapist, the assistant carries out a treatment program that might include exercises for increasing strength, endurance, coordination and range of motion; the use of heat, cold, electricity, sound or water to relieve pain and stimulate muscle activity; instruction in safe physical activities and the use of devices such as walkers, crutches and wheelchairs.

The PTA might also assist the therapist in performing tests and assessments as well as observing and reporting patient responses to treatment. This broad-based approach to patient rehabilitation is the cornerstone of physical therapy, and the PTA plays an important role in the process.

Helpful High School Courses

Computer Science, Biological Sciences, Anatomy and Physiology, Algebra or upper level math, English, Medical Terminology, Communication/Speech, Sports Medicine/ATC

Course Sequence

View Course Sequence
View Complete Course List

Certificates and Degrees

• Associate of Applied Science degree: Physical Therapist Assistant

Associate degrees in health can articulate into the Bachelor of Science in Health Science.

All AAS degrees will articulate into the Bachelor of Applied Technology.

Students may choose to pursue a curriculum that will matriculate into the ISU Doctorate of Physical Therapy program.

Program Requirements

Application for PTA Admission
Application fee
High school transcript or GED
COMPASS Placement Test or ACT scores
Minimum 2.5 GPA
40 hours of volunteer or work experience

Register early - admission is based on space availability.

Admission Steps

• Complete and return an Application for Admission along with a check or money order for $40 (non-refundable), payable to Idaho State University. You may also apply online.
• Submit official college transcripts, if applicable, from each accredited institution of higher education that you have attended.
• Submit an official copy of your high school transcript or GED scores (Not required if you have completed and submitted proof of 14 or more academic credits from an accredited institution of higher education.)
• Meet with a College of Technology counselor, if desired, to obtain more in-depth information. To make an appointment, call (208)282-2622.
• Either:
  1. Complete the COMPASS Placement test. This test enables us to place you in the appropriate classes to enhance your success in college.
  2. Submit ACT/SAT scores, valid for seven (7) years from the date of testing.
• Apply for financial aid if needed. Questions, call (208) 282-2756.

Fees

Fees apply to the current Idaho State University fee schedule which includes mandatory student health insurance.

Paying for College

You may apply for financial aid, scholarships, grants, and loans to help finance your college education. When you pay registration fees, you are a student of Idaho State University with the privileges and responsibilities of a college student.

Affirmative Action & Equal Employment Opportunity at ISU

Career Opportunities

100% of 2007 graduates were employed in related jobs.

Employment Opportunities

• Physical Therapy Clinics
• Hospitals
• Nursing and personal care facilities
• Doctor’s offices and clinics
• Median income in Idaho is $37,680 and nationally, $39,490 in this field*
• About 280 physical therapist assistants work in this occupation in Idaho*

* Idaho Career Information Systems data

All AAS degrees will articulate into the Bachelor of Applied Science.
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