Physical Therapist Assistant
Associate in Applied Science
Physical therapy involves helping patients improve their mobility, relieve pain, and prevent permanent disability to bones, muscles, and tissues. Physical therapist assistants are part of a professional healthcare team that includes physical and occupational therapists, nurses, and doctors.
24/7
support in the ICC Academic Support Center
The program provides a high-quality education for students to develop the skills to work as a licensed PTA under the direction and supervision of the Physical Therapist. Students complete three full-time clinical rotations in a variety of placement sites including school-based therapy, outpatient settings, and in-patient acute and rehabilitation settings.
Admissions Office
Graduates of the program will be eligible to take the licensure exam, which is necessary to obtain a state license and to practice as a PTA.
Network with other students through ICC student organizations including the Student Government Association and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
Physical Therapist Assistant
COMPLETION TIME
24 Months
if Full Time
6 Semesters
70.5 Total Credit Hours
What if I attend part-time?
Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.
ESTIMATED COST
$10,928
+ supplies & fees
Based on 2024-25
What financial assistance can I receive?
Find the plan right for you by connecting with our Financial Aid office.
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
24 Students
average per class
Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.
View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.
Meet Our Students and Alumni
The program is fortunate to have qualified faculty, especially the adjunct faculty, who have vast experience and who practice in various settings. They bring their unique clinical experience into the classroom.
Julie Feeny, Professor – Health Careers
How Do I Get Into the Physical Therapist Assistant Program?
The Physical Therapist Assistant program is an excellent entry point to work in physical therapy without the huge debt of a doctorate program. Talk to an Admissions representative to learn how to get started.
- Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy.
- Submit health science application.
- Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just 1 application for over 600 scholarships.
- High school coursework in English, math, science, and computer keyboarding is beneficial.
- Upon program acceptance, applicants will have to complete a drug screen, fingerprint criminal background check, physical exam, and immunizations.
What Can I Expect As a Physical Therapist Assistant Student?
- Hands-on experience in program labs and three full-time clinical rotations.
- A quality program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) American Physical Therapy Association.
- Graduates of the program have gone on to work at Professional Therapy Services, OSF Healthcare, Easterseals Central Illinois, and school-based therapy.
- One of the first PTA programs in the United States. Received first accreditation in 1971 and has been consistently accredited since then.
Program Outcomes
| Class of | Graduation Rate | Employment (for those responding to surveys) | Exam Pass Rate First Time | Exam Pass Rate Ultimate (all) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 87% | 100% | 85.7% | 85.7% |
| 2021 | 81.2% | 100% | 83% | 83% |
| 2-year average | 84.1% | 100% | 84% | 84% |
Additional Opportunities
Innovative Bridge to Health Careers
The Innovative Bridge to Health Careers Program is an 8-week program that will engage participants in training designed to introduce and academically prepare them for entry into the various ICC Health Career opportunities.
How Am I Going to Manage This?
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What if I am working while going to school?
We have you covered. Many of our students are working adults who balance life and school. We have great resources on campus to help keep you going!
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What are my options for funding my education?
Do this first: fill out and file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t want federal aid, this document is used by many scholarship and grant programs to evaluate aid packages.
Look for scholarships and grants first because usually they don’t have to be paid back. The ICC Foundation sponsors some scholarships, and grants may be available from Illinois or federal programs. Other organizations also offer scholarships, and we can help you research those opportunities.
Federally guaranteed student loans can be a smart way to fund college. Think about your transfer plans and what your career looks like. Some sources recommend that you cap your borrowing at the level of what you (realistically!) can expect to earn at your first job after college. So, research careers and pay, too.
Of course, savings, jobs, and work-study are key parts of your budget. Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Find the tools to make a complete plan for paying for school.