Polk State’s Physical Therapist Assistant Program celebrates 100% licensure pass rates

Posted on by Polk Newsroom

Polk State College’s Physical Therapist Assistant Program stands out as a leader in workforce training, consistently delivering exceptional results. With two consecutive years of 100% licensure pass rates and a 100% employment rate, the program is a testament to its effectiveness in preparing graduates for success in the field.

As the healthcare landscape evolves, the role of physical therapist assistants (PTAs) has never been more crucial. Through hands-on clinical experience, rigorous coursework, and a supportive learning environment, Polk State PTA is shaping the next generation of physical therapist assistants. Further, the program is empowering them to make an immediate impact in the local healthcare industry, with approximately 70% of Polk State students remaining in Polk County after graduation.

To ensure that students are equipped to thrive in this dynamic field, comprehensive training and education are essential, PTA Program Director Mary Krell explains.

“The PTA Program has three dedicated full-time faculty members with a combined 35 years of clinical experience. We prepare our students for a real-world clinical setting by offering a lot of hands-on experience throughout our courses,” Krell said. “We have a simulation area that allows our students to practice acute care, and we incorporate a lot of case scenarios and case studies into our classes, which allows our students to apply the information to real-life [scenarios].”

Students consider it a challenging yet rewarding experience.

“As we are challenged, we receive a high level of education that allows us to be prepared for our future careers,” student Yadira Sanchez said. “The professors have helped us throughout the whole program by not only being available during class but [by] also allow[ing] us to come before class or after class to answer any questions that we may have. They’re always willing to help.”

“The PTA Program has three dedicated full-time faculty members with a combined 35 years of clinical experience. We prepare our students for a real-world clinical setting by offering a lot of hands-on experience throughout our courses.”

Mary Krell, PTA Program Director

Peers echoed this sentiment and added that Polk State’s affordability, proximity, and small class sizes were also compelling factors when choosing a physical therapist assistant program.

“I chose Polk State because it was close to home. It was very cost-efficient compared to other local schools,” said student Talia Bianco, who holds an Associate in Arts degree from the College. “I felt like I had a good education, and it just felt like the right spot for me.”

Now working toward her Associate in Science in Physical Therapist Assistant, Bianco added that her favorite thing about the PTA Program specifically has been the small class size.

“I’ve enjoyed seeing my classmates excel and their strengths,” she reflected. “We all work together so that we can overcome obstacles and it’s been a really cool experience to see that take place day in and day out.”

Isaac Medrano added that the hands-on components of the program enhance the learning experience, preparing them for the clinical setting and building a foundation of confidence as they begin their PTA careers.

“The hands-on aspect of everything we do here helps you assimilate to what we’ll be doing in the real world,” he explained. “They give us real-world patient situations so that when we’re with a real patient, we can apply what we have practiced.”

With an anticipated 19% growth in job openings between 2023 and 2033, the need for physical therapist assistants is increasing at a significantly higher rate than other occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

And with Polk State’s PTA Program boasting a 100% employment rate, the outlooks are bright for students and graduates.

“Anyone who is looking forward to becoming a physical therapist assistant should know that it is a very empowering and fulfilling career,” Sanchez said. “Not only are you able to impact one’s life, but you are able to leave your own mark on the world.”

Polk State PTA’s application period takes place from May 1 through May 31 and the program is holding information sessions for interested applicants. More information is available at polk.edu/pta.

PTA, in partnership with the College’s Occupational Therapy Assistant Program, is also hosting the second annual Warriors for Wellness 5K on Saturday, March 8, on the Winter Haven Campus in support of the programs and students. More information is available by clicking here.