Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the role of the PTA and where are they employed?
A: The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is a member of the healthcare team who implements treatment programs under the direction and supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist. These treatment programs are concentrated in health promotion, the prevention and/or treatment of physical disabilities. Some duties of the PTA include reading patients' charts, transferring patients, assisting the patient in exercise, gait training and ambulation, applying physical agents such as heat, cold and electrical stimulation to specific muscles, instructing the patient and care giver in functional activities, and observing and reporting changes in a patient's condition to the Physical Therapist.

PTAs work in settings where Physical Therapists are employed. These include hospitals, outpatient clinics, private practices, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, school systems and colleges and universities.

Q: Do I have to have a license to practice as a Physical Therapist Assistant in Florida?
A: Yes, successful completion of the PTA program at PCC will allow you to be eligible to take the Florida State Board exam.

Q: When does the PTA program begin?
A: The PTA program begins a new class every August.

Q: Where are the courses held?
A: All classes are held at the Winter Haven campus of PCC. All classes will be held in the WRH building—rooms 100 and 111.

Q: What are the requirements for the program?
A: The requirements for entering the PTA program include the following:

Q: When is the application deadline?
A: The PTA program admits students under a “rolling admissions” process. The completed program application should be submitted to the program staff assistant or program faculty. The staff assistant or program faculty will note the day and time that the application is received. The applicant will be admitted to the next available class based on time of completion of the prerequisite courses and seat availability.

Q: Do I have to complete all the prerequisites before I apply to the program?
A: No, you may apply to the program even before you complete the prerequisites. Once the completed application has been submitted, you are accepted to the program on a “first come, first qualified” basis. You will be admitted to the next available class after completion of the prerequisites and if there are seats available.

Q: Will I be able to work part time while in the program?
A: Yes, depending on the student’s study habits and organization, part time employment is possible except during the three full time clinical affiliations (unless you work at night). Classes are held Monday through Thursday; mornings or afternoons. Program requirements are rigorous and students must make a commitment to the program to ensure success.

Q: Can I take the other general education courses before beginning the program?
A: Yes, the other education courses may be taken before beginning the program. Completion of these courses before the program may help to lighten the load once you are in the program. The general education courses that may be taken before entering the program are:

Q: What is the estimated cost of completing the PTA program?
A: The estimated cost of the entire program including taking college prep courses and prerequisites is approximately $9,854. This cost includes tuition, fees, books, and other program requirements prior to clinical internships (i.e., HIV and CPR certifications, physical exam, etc.).

Q: Is financial aide available?
A: Yes, the PTA Program is allocated limited scholarship funds for students in need. The Financial Aid department at PCC should be contacted for consultation for eligibility of the student for a variety of financial aid programs available to assist students who would be unable to attend college without aid.

Q: Will courses that I’ve taken at another college transfer to PCC?
A: That depends on the courses taken and the content of those courses. Courses that are transferred from other colleges are accepted and evaluated to determine credits via equivalency.