Certified Physical Therapy Aide

  • 9 Months
  • 190 Course Hours
  • $2,295

Overview

Become a Certified Physical Therapy Aide

There's a growing need for physical therapy aides. In fact, Physical Therapy Aide jobs will grow over 29 percent through 2029. This online course will help you master the skills you need to work as a physical therapy aide.  Not only will you be prepared for the AMCA's Physical Therapy Technician/Aide certification exam, but an externship starter kit will also walk you through everything you need to know to land a Physical Therapy Aide externship.

What you will learn

  • Explain the role, responsibilities, and qualifications of the certified physical therapy aide in various healthcare settings.
  • Define medical terminology and word elements related to the practice of physical therapy.
  • Summarize human anatomy, functional body movements, and system disorders as they relate to physical therapy.
  • Identify proper positioning, patient transfers, common exercises, modalities, and medical equipment.
  • Demonstrate ethical and legal behavior specific to healthcare settings.
  • Differentiate between tasks appropriate for a certified physical therapy aide and other healthcare professionals.

How you will benefit

  • Holding AMCA Physical Therapy Technician/Aide certification validates your skill set
  • Developing transferable skills increases employment opportunities at healthcare settings, including physical therapist offices, hospitals, and nursing home facilities
  • Building out a professional portfolio showcases skills and prepares you for the job search

How this course is taught

  • This is a non-credit program offered in partnership with ed2go.  You do not have to be admitted to the university to enroll in this program. 
  • This is an open enrollment program, which means you can enroll and start at any time.  There are no set start and end dates. 
  • This course is entirely online and can be completed at a pace and time that is convenient for you.  There are not set times you must attend classes.  
  • You will have 9-months from the date of enrollment to complete this program.  
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites to take this course. You do not need any prior experience or training in this field. However, if you plan to sit for the AMCA Certification Exam, candidates must be 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.

 

Job Outlook

Demand for physical therapy is expected to increase in response to the healthcare needs of an aging population and individuals with chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity.

Earn $27,000+ Annually
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for physical therapist aides was $27,000 in May 2020.
 
Expect 26% Job Growth 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapist assistants and aides is projected to grow 26 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations.


 

Requirements

Hardware Requirements:

  • This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.
  • Webcam and microphone for testing.

Software Requirements:

  • PC: Windows 8 or later.
  • Mac: OS 10.6 or later.
  • Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader. Click here to download the Acrobat Reader.
  • Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

  • Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Materials

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment. The following textbooks will be shipped to you approximately 7-10 business days after enrollment:

Principles and Techniques of Patient Care
Medical Terminology for Health Professions

 

 

Curriculum

The Physical Therapy Profession

Medical Terminology

Organization of the Human Body

Principles of Pathology and Its Treatment

Infection Control

Body Mechanics

Positioning and Draping Patients

Transferring Patients Safely

Wheelchair Basics

Pressure Ulcers

Normal and Abnormal Gait

Ambulation Aids

Ambulation Related Activities

The Skeletal System

The Muscular System

Treatment of the Skeletal and Muscular Systems: Exercise

Treatment of the Skeletal and Muscular Systems: Physical Agents

The Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems

The Nervous System

Treatment of the Cardiovascular, Respiratory, and Nervous Systems

The Rest of the Organ Systems

Communication in the PT Facility

Records and Charting

Legal and Ethical Issues

Your Career Journey (Optional Lesson)


 

Instructor

Holly Trimble

Holly Trimble earned a bachelor's degree in physical therapy from the University of Colorado, a master's degree in pediatric physical therapy from Boston University, and a master's degree in biology from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. After working as a physical therapist for many years, Trimble transitioned into teaching. She has lectured on health-related topics to all age groups and works as an adjunct instructor of anatomy and physiology. She received an Adjunct Faculty Excellence Award and is the author of "College Success Now!"


 

FAQs

WHAT DO PHYSICAL THERAPIST AIDES DO? 
Physical therapist assistants and aides are supervised by physical therapists to help patients regain movement and manage pain after injuries and illnesses.
 
WHAT TYPE OF ENVIRONMENT DO PHYSICAL THERAPIST AIDES WORK?
Most physical therapist assistants and aides work in physical therapists’ offices or in hospitals. They are frequently on their feet as they set up equipment and help care for patients.
 
DO I HAVE TO BE ADMITTED TO MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY TO ENROLL IN THIS PROGRAM?
No, you do not have to be an admitted student to Mississippi State University to enroll in this program.  Our online non-credit advanced career training programs are open to all. 
 
WHEN CAN I START THE COURSE? 
This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.
 
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO COMPLETE THIS COURSE? 
This course is self-paced and open enrollment, so you can start when you want and finish at your own pace. When you register, you'll receive nine (9) months to complete the course.
 
WHAT IF I DON'T HAVE ENOUGH TIME TO COMPLETE MY COURSE WITHIN THE TIME FRAME PROVIDED? 
The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact your Student Advisor to help you work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.
 
WHAT KIND OF SUPPORT WILL I RECEIVE?  
You may be assigned with an instructor or team of industry experts for one-on-one course interaction. Your support will be available (via email) to answer any questions you may have and to provide feedback on your performance. All of our instructors are successful working professionals in the fields in which they teach. You will also be assigned to an Advisor for academic support.
 
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I COMPLETE THE COURSE? 
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion from Mississippi State University Extension.
 
AM I GUARANTEED A JOB?  
This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.
 
CAN I GET FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE?  
This course is non-credit, so it does not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA and Pell Grant. In some cases, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll, if they meet certain requirements. Financing is available, to learn more go to: https://www.ed2go.com/career/financial-assistance
 
HOW CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS COURSE?  
If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-662-325-5002 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Request More Info" form.

 

Overview

Become a Certified Physical Therapy Aide

There's a growing need for physical therapy aides. In fact, Physical Therapy Aide jobs will grow over 29 percent through 2029. This online course will help you master the skills you need to work as a physical therapy aide.  Not only will you be prepared for the AMCA's Physical Therapy Technician/Aide certification exam, but an externship starter kit will also walk you through everything you need to know to land a Physical Therapy Aide externship.

What you will learn

  • Explain the role, responsibilities, and qualifications of the certified physical therapy aide in various healthcare settings.
  • Define medical terminology and word elements related to the practice of physical therapy.
  • Summarize human anatomy, functional body movements, and system disorders as they relate to physical therapy.
  • Identify proper positioning, patient transfers, common exercises, modalities, and medical equipment.
  • Demonstrate ethical and legal behavior specific to healthcare settings.
  • Differentiate between tasks appropriate for a certified physical therapy aide and other healthcare professionals.

How you will benefit

  • Holding AMCA Physical Therapy Technician/Aide certification validates your skill set
  • Developing transferable skills increases employment opportunities at healthcare settings, including physical therapist offices, hospitals, and nursing home facilities
  • Building out a professional portfolio showcases skills and prepares you for the job search

How this course is taught

  • This is a non-credit program offered in partnership with ed2go.  You do not have to be admitted to the university to enroll in this program. 
  • This is an open enrollment program, which means you can enroll and start at any time.  There are no set start and end dates. 
  • This course is entirely online and can be completed at a pace and time that is convenient for you.  There are not set times you must attend classes.  
  • You will have 9-months from the date of enrollment to complete this program.  
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites to take this course. You do not need any prior experience or training in this field. However, if you plan to sit for the AMCA Certification Exam, candidates must be 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.

 

Job Outlook

Demand for physical therapy is expected to increase in response to the healthcare needs of an aging population and individuals with chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity.

Earn $27,000+ Annually
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for physical therapist aides was $27,000 in May 2020.
 
Expect 26% Job Growth 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapist assistants and aides is projected to grow 26 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations.


 

Requirements

Hardware Requirements:

  • This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.
  • Webcam and microphone for testing.

Software Requirements:

  • PC: Windows 8 or later.
  • Mac: OS 10.6 or later.
  • Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader. Click here to download the Acrobat Reader.
  • Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

  • Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Materials

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment. The following textbooks will be shipped to you approximately 7-10 business days after enrollment:

Principles and Techniques of Patient Care
Medical Terminology for Health Professions

 

 

Curriculum

The Physical Therapy Profession

Medical Terminology

Organization of the Human Body

Principles of Pathology and Its Treatment

Infection Control

Body Mechanics

Positioning and Draping Patients

Transferring Patients Safely

Wheelchair Basics

Pressure Ulcers

Normal and Abnormal Gait

Ambulation Aids

Ambulation Related Activities

The Skeletal System

The Muscular System

Treatment of the Skeletal and Muscular Systems: Exercise

Treatment of the Skeletal and Muscular Systems: Physical Agents

The Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems

The Nervous System

Treatment of the Cardiovascular, Respiratory, and Nervous Systems

The Rest of the Organ Systems

Communication in the PT Facility

Records and Charting

Legal and Ethical Issues

Your Career Journey (Optional Lesson)


 

Instructor

Holly Trimble

Holly Trimble earned a bachelor's degree in physical therapy from the University of Colorado, a master's degree in pediatric physical therapy from Boston University, and a master's degree in biology from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. After working as a physical therapist for many years, Trimble transitioned into teaching. She has lectured on health-related topics to all age groups and works as an adjunct instructor of anatomy and physiology. She received an Adjunct Faculty Excellence Award and is the author of "College Success Now!"


 

FAQs

WHAT DO PHYSICAL THERAPIST AIDES DO? 
Physical therapist assistants and aides are supervised by physical therapists to help patients regain movement and manage pain after injuries and illnesses.
 
WHAT TYPE OF ENVIRONMENT DO PHYSICAL THERAPIST AIDES WORK?
Most physical therapist assistants and aides work in physical therapists’ offices or in hospitals. They are frequently on their feet as they set up equipment and help care for patients.
 
DO I HAVE TO BE ADMITTED TO MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY TO ENROLL IN THIS PROGRAM?
No, you do not have to be an admitted student to Mississippi State University to enroll in this program.  Our online non-credit advanced career training programs are open to all. 
 
WHEN CAN I START THE COURSE? 
This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.
 
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO COMPLETE THIS COURSE? 
This course is self-paced and open enrollment, so you can start when you want and finish at your own pace. When you register, you'll receive nine (9) months to complete the course.
 
WHAT IF I DON'T HAVE ENOUGH TIME TO COMPLETE MY COURSE WITHIN THE TIME FRAME PROVIDED? 
The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact your Student Advisor to help you work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.
 
WHAT KIND OF SUPPORT WILL I RECEIVE?  
You may be assigned with an instructor or team of industry experts for one-on-one course interaction. Your support will be available (via email) to answer any questions you may have and to provide feedback on your performance. All of our instructors are successful working professionals in the fields in which they teach. You will also be assigned to an Advisor for academic support.
 
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I COMPLETE THE COURSE? 
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion from Mississippi State University Extension.
 
AM I GUARANTEED A JOB?  
This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.
 
CAN I GET FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE?  
This course is non-credit, so it does not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA and Pell Grant. In some cases, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll, if they meet certain requirements. Financing is available, to learn more go to: https://www.ed2go.com/career/financial-assistance
 
HOW CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS COURSE?  
If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-662-325-5002 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Request More Info" form.

 

Registration Information

The Certified Physical Therapy Aide program is 100% online and allows you to enroll at any time.  After enrolling you will have 9-months to complete the program at a pace that is convenient for you.  You can get started today by clicking the "Enroll Now" button below and completing your registration at our partner ed2go site.