Health-Related Professions

Department of Physical Therapist Assistant

The physical therapist assistant is a skilled licensed health care worker who carries out patient treatment under the direction of the physical therapist. The assistant works to relieve pain and/or increase function in patients via therapeutic application of heat, cold, light, water, electricity, ultrasound message, exercise, gait, and functional activity. The Physical Therapist Assistant Program (PTA) consists of general education and physical therapy courses. The physical therapy courses are designed to utilize information learned general education courses and to provide knowledge and skills to fulfill the objectives of the program. Concurrent theoretical and clinical experiences enhance the relation of theory to practice for the student. Clinical experience is provided in a variety of settings including hospitals, rehabilitation agencies, schools, private offices and nursing homes. Upon successful completion of the program, the student is awarded an Associate in Applied Science degree and may be eligible to take the licensure examination given by the Alabama Board of Physical Therapy and other state boards. The Physical Therapist Assistant Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Physical Therapy Education.

Classes are held at the following locations:

• Baker-Gaines Central Campus (1365 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave.)

Department Faculty

For course listings and requirements for graduation, see the Course Catalog.