ECPI University’s Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program is designed to provide graduates with the knowledge required to work under the supervision of a Physical Therapist in the rehabilitation process. Curriculum focuses on a variety of areas including:
- Human anatomy
- Physiology
- Aging of muscles and bones as it relates to exercise and its impact on mobility, strength and coordination
Students also gain hands-on experience in the use of physical modalities such as heat, ice, ultrasound, traction, massage, and electrical stimulation to help decrease pain, increase motion, and improve function.
The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at ECPI University, School of Health Science, Medical Careers Institute – Newport News, VA Campus and Richmond, VA Campus (Emerywood/West End Location) is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) of the American Physical Therapy Association.
The Richmond, VA program is an expansion of the accredited parent PTA program at ECPI University, School of Health Science, Medical Careers Institute – Newport News, VA.
- Prepare graduates for entry-level practice as physical therapist assistants who will work under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist in an ethical, legal, safe, and effective manner.
- Prepare graduates who are competent in the implementation of comprehensive treatment plans developed by the supervising physical therapist and prepare to effectively monitor and modify the plan of care within the knowledge and limits of practice and communicate with the supervising therapist in a timely manner regarding the patient's status.
- Provide a learning environment that recognizes individual differences and promotes caring behaviors in the health care community.
- Promote critical thinking skills to effectively address patient care problems and to adapt the rapidly changing challenges in healthcare and physical therapist assistant.
Below are just some examples of the curriculum that makes up ECPI University’s Physical Therapy Assistant Degree Program:
- Rehabilitation Therapeutic Modalities
- Rehabilitation Devices
- Medical & Surgical Conditions
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Clinical Internship
WHY ECPI UNIVERSITY'S COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCE?
At ECPI University, our supportive faculty and staff are dedicated to your success from the moment you arrive on campus. Our tradition of hands-on, student-centered education is an effective way to build skills, and our flexible, accelerated programs are designed to accommodate your schedule. From student support services to employer partnerships, ECPI University is committed to our students’ success.
Get started today. Complete the form on this page, or call us at for more information on our programs at ECPI University.