Physical Therapist Assistant, AS (PTA)

Keiser University

Keiser University’s 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. This information is also published in the University Catalog.

Program Mission:

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Keiser University offers an Associate of Science Degree that is designed to prepare students to become effective, knowledgeable, safe and competent entry-level Physical Therapist Assistants who will practice under the supervision and direction of a Physical Therapist.

Program Goals and Student Learning Objectives

The following Goals and Student Learning Outcomes are designed to meet Keiser University’s Physical Therapist Assistant program mission and its objectives. Graduates of the program are prepared to enter the workforce as entry-level Physical Therapist Assistants and by the completion of the program:

• Program Goal 1: Communicate and collaborate within the healthcare environment and with members of the community;
• Program Goal 2: Demonstrate knowledge, skills and attitudes reflective of an entry level Physical Therapist Assistant;
• Program Goal 3: Exhibit professional and ethical behaviors consistent with the scope of practice of a PTA;
• Program Goal 4: Explore contemporary practice to develop commitment to lifelong learning.
• Program Goal 5: PTA Program Faculty will provide a variety of effective didactic and clinical learning experiences.
• Program Goal 6: PTA Program Faculty will engage in professional development and service to meet the needs of the program and University.

Prerequisites for Major Courses

• Background check and drug screening when applicable;
• Completion of prerequisites Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, and Functional Human Anatomy 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.