Also called: PTA
Helps physical therapists treat patients by guiding exercises and treatments.
They lead patients through rehab exercises, apply ice or electrical stimulation, and track progress. Sports clinics see lots of injured athletes. It's a fast, two-year path into healthcare.
Based on BLS physical therapist assistants, May 2024 estimates.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Associate's degree (2-year), about 2 years after high school. Associate degree from an accredited PTA program plus license.
Ways in: 2-year college. Training cost: Under $15k.
Majors to look at: Physical Therapist Assistant (2-year).
Growing much faster than average (about 19% over 10 years). Much-faster-than-average growth projected.
Low risk for 10 years. Guiding patients through exercises and treatments is hands-on care that stays human.
Classes: Anatomy and physiology, Health science CTE, Physical education.
Official data: O*NET occupation 31-2021.
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