(CIP Code: 51.0806)

Program Description:

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program includes lecture and supervised laboratory courses in physical therapy science and procedures, as well as clinical experiences designed to prepare the graduate to become a Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant. PTA perform physical therapy treatments and other duties under the supervision of a Licensed Physical Therapist. The Program is designed to prepare skilled technical health workers to perform various treatment procedures delegated by the Physical Therapist including modalities, rehabilitation techniques, therapeutic exercises, training the patient to use special equipment, and providing patient education to prevent further physical problems. After successful completion of the curriculum, students are eligible to sit for national licensure examinations for Physical Therapist Assistants and apply for state licensure. The Physical Therapist Assistant Program is nationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 1111 North Fairfax Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314; (703) 706-3245; accreditation@apta.org; www.capteonline.org.

Program Notes:

This is a competitive entry, cohort Applied Sciences Program at Blinn College. To be eligible for admissions into the Physical Therapist Assistant Program, the following minimum criteria must be met.

1. Complete all admissions requirements to Blinn College. Acceptance into Blinn College does not guarantee acceptance into the Physical Therapist Assistant Program. Admissions requirements for Blinn College should be seen as separate requirements from those within the Physical Therapist Assistant Program application packet.
2. Be TSI College Ready in all subjects by Blinn College standards.
3. Completion of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program application packet and all requirements therein by the stated deadline.
4. Grades of “C” or better in all prerequisite and corequisite courses, with a minimum overall GPA of a 2.5 or greater. All prerequisite courses must be completed prior to the start of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program. However, it is encouraged to complete as many of the prerequisites and corequisites (academic courses) prior to the start of the Program to be a more competitive applicant.
   • Admissions GPA is calculated based on the prerequisite and corequisite courses ONLY.
5. Take the ATI TEAS test.
6. Observation hours in at least three different therapy disciplines, with a minimum of 20 hours in each discipline for a total minimum of 60 hours. Recommended to complete more hours than minimum to be more competitive. Observation hours must be completed within 2 years of the application deadline.
7. Three letters of recommendation.
8. Optional items considered, but not required, include community service hours, college degree(s), and any professional health care certifications.
9. Required interviews for final selection.

Admitted students will be required to show proof of required immunizations and submit to a criminal background check and drug screening process to be eligible to continue into the Physical Therapist Assistant Program.

For the most accurate admissions requirements, please see the Program’s website at www.blinn.edu/twe/pta/. Advising for current Blinn students regarding this Program can be scheduled by emailing kynsie.benefield@blinn.edu.