Associate of Science degree in Physical Therapist Assistant prepares students for employment as a skilled licensed health care worker under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist. A Physical Therapist Assistant assists in the management of conditions such as arthritis, amputation, fractures, cerebrovascular accident (stroke), spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, wounds, developmental delays, cerebral palsy, cardiac and pulmonary pathology, sport injuries, work injuries and other types of injuries and/or pathologies.

The accreditation status of the Physical Therapist Assistant program is published on the Accreditation page of the University website and

PTA Outcomes

The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) requires public disclosure of the Physical Therapist Assistant program outcomes, including graduation rate, licensure examination pass rate, and employment rate.  This information may be viewed by clicking here. 

Program Objectives

The following objectives are designed to meet BSU mission and its objectives:

• Communicate and collaborate within the healthcare environment and with members of the community.
• Demonstrate knowledge, skills and attitudes reflective of an entry level Physical Therapist Assistant.
• Exhibit professional and ethical behaviors consistent with the scope of practice of a PTA.
• Explore contemporary practice to develop commitment to lifelong learning.

Prerequisites for Major Courses

• Background check and drug screening when applicable
• Completion of prerequisites Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II with a minimum of a “B” in each course.
• Completion of general education coursework with a minimum grade of “C” for each course and cumulative grade average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• Complete a minimum of 10 hours of physical therapy observation or work experience during the last 12 months before entering core.  The 10 hours observation must consist of 5 hours in a Skilled Nursing Facility (nursing home) and 5 hours in a Physical Therapy Outpatient Clinic.

Program Outline

To receive an Associate of Science degree in Physical Therapist Assistant, students must earn 74.0 credit hours. Program requirements are as follows.

Each course in the PTA major is a prerequisite for the subsequent course and therefore must be passed with a minimum “C” grade in order to proceed successfully through the program.

General Education Courses ( 26.0 credit hours )

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