Nature of Work

Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) are skilled health care workers who assist the Physical Therapist in treating patients who have been disable by inactivity or disease, accidents at the workplace or on the playing field, or those who were born with a physical disability.

PTAs perform various treatment procedures which have been delegated to them by the Physical Therapist.  These procedures include: therapeutic use of exercise, water, massage, ultrasound, light and electricity to promote healing, coordination, endurance, range of motion, strength and relaxation.

The demand for Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants will come from an increase in the aged population, growth in the field of sports medicine, and recognition of the importance of physical therapy in patient rehabilitation following selected diseases and trauma.

The rewards of a career in physical therapy include working directly with injured patients, good job opportunities and salaries.

Program Description

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at the College of Southern Nevada (CSN) is a fully accredited, two-year program of study leading to an Associate of Applied Science Degree.  The curriculum consists of general education and professional courses.  The courses are designed to help the student develop the intellectual, technical, and social skills necessary to become a competent, safe, and ethical Physical Therapist Assistant.

Accreditation

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at the College of Southern Nevada is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 1111 North Fairfax Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org.

Program Outcomes

Physical Therapy Assistant at CSN

Program Course Sheet and Application Deadlines

Career Guide and Approximate Costs

Selection Criteria

Note: Qualified applicants are expected to meet all admission criteria and matriculating students are expected to meet all progression criteria, as well as these Essential Functions for PTA Students. Students with documented need for accommodation are to meet with the Disability Resources Center.

Admission Requirements

This is a Limited Entry Program.  Therefore, an application for admission must be submitted by the application deadline and all prerequisite requirements must be completed by the completion deadline in order to be eligible for consideration.  This material is reviewed using selection criteria set by the program.  Applicants are notified of their standing by the Limited Entry office.

PTA Observation Report Record
Recommendation Form for Admission to PTA Program

Guidelines and Policies

Student Physical Therapist Assistant Handbook

Note: Accepted students must print and review material. Signed forms must be turned into the department when requested. Students interested in the program may view the handbook for informational purposes only.

Students First Checklist

New students planning to register for courses at CSN must follow the steps outlined on the Students First Checklist. This checklist provides information on the registration process for new students seeking a Limited-Entry Health Science Degree or Certificate.

How to Transfer Credits to CSN From Other Colleges

For further information, contact the Health Programs Advisement office.  Additionally, it is very important that interested students attend an orientation as soon as possible for complete admissions information.   Program orientations are held weekly.  You can call (702)651-5015 for pre-recorded orientation information. 

If you require other information, please e-mail the Health Programs Advisor directly.