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This question is about physical therapist assistant jobs.
How long do you have to go to school to be a physical therapist assistant?
You have to go to school for two years to be a physical therapist assistant. In most cases, it takes two years to complete a physical therapist assistant program. It may take additional time to pass the National Physical Therapist Assistant Examination and receive a state license.
The length of a PTA program is usually five semesters completed over two years. Students take courses in anatomy and physiology, human growth and development, aging, clinical pathology, neuroscience, and psychology during the first year plus.
They also study the principles of physical therapy, physical therapy procedures, orthopedic disabilities, and kinesiology, which study the mechanics of body movements.
In the second half of their program, PTA students complete clinical experiences. Clinical training is a full-time commitment in hospitals, physical therapy practices, and nursing facilities. Clinical training gives students opportunities to work directly with actual patients and gain the practical skills they'll need to succeed in their careers.
Approximately 75% of the PTA curriculum is classroom (didactic) and lab study, and the remaining 25% is dedicated to clinical education. PTA students spend, on average, 16 weeks in full-time clinical education experiences.
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