Physical Therapist Assistant

Important Update Regarding the Physical Therapist Assistant Program as of December 2025

Program Status:

After careful consideration, the college previously made the decision to place the PTA program in a self-imposed hold status. Terra State C.C. is now in the process of reviewing curriculum and metrics.

The college is planning to announce cohort resumption details and application processes in the near future.

Students interested in this program are encouraged to check this website regularly for updates.

Contact Information: Terra State will continue to teach, support, and guide students during this transition. If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to reach out to PTA Program Chair Brian Hall at bhall01@terra.edu or call 419.559.2450 or the Allied Health Academic Advisor, Kristen Smith, at ksmith67@terra.edu or 419.559.2157.

What is a Physical Therapist Assistant?

Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) assist physical therapists in helping individuals regain the ability to function at their maximum physical ability and provide select interventions to achieve the goals the physical therapist has set for an individual’s recovery that lead to healthier and more active lifestyles. If you like helping people and enjoy hands-on work, this could be the career for you.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of our Physical Therapist Assistant program are eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). Learn more about this career below or check out the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Physical Therapist Assistant

Physical therapist assistants work under the direction and supervision of physical therapists. They help patients who are recovering from injuries and illnesses regain movement and manage pain.

The median annual wage for physical therapist assistants was $61K in May 2022.

Overall employment of physical therapist assistants and aides is projected to grow 24 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for physical therapy is expected to increase in response to the healthcare needs of an older population and individuals with chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity.

What degree or certificate can I earn?

Physical Therapist Assistant

Associate of Applied Science (AAS)

Accreditation

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Terra State Community College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703.706.3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If you need to contact the program/institution directly, please call 419.559.2355 or email cstine@terra.edu

Rates	2018	2019	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024	2025
Graduation rate	80%	62.5%	75%	55.6%	100%	100%	100%	100%
First-Time Licensure Pass Rate	60%	80%	60%	50%	100%	100%	57%	66.6%
Ultimate Licensure Pass rate	100%	80%	60%	66.7%	100%	100%	71%	TBD
Employment rate (within 1 year following graduation)	100%	100%	100%	100%	100%	100%	71%	TBD

Two-Year Averages	2017 2018	2018 2019	2019 2020	2020 2021	2021 2022	2022 2023	2023 2024	2024 2025
Graduation rate	78.9%	71.3%	68.8%	65.3%	77.8%	100%	100%	100%
Ultimate Licensure Pass rate	100%	90%	70%	63.4%	83.4%	100%	75%	TBD
Employment rate (within 1 year following graduation)	100%	100%	100%	100%	100%	100%	75%	TBD

FAQs

When does the program start, and how do I apply?

How long is the program?

What does the program cost?

How many students are there in each cohort?

Can I work while enrolled in the program?

The PTA program is rigorous, and you’ll need significant time outside of class to study and practice skills. If you must work, plan for only limited part‑time hours. Please note: clinical practicums are full‑time, so you won’t be able to work during the 3‑week practicum in the first year or the two 8‑week practicums in the second year of the program.

How difficult is the program?

Is the program offered online?

Do I get to choose where I complete my clinical practicums?

How far should I expect to travel for my clinical practicums?

Does Terra State have degree transfer options for other programs?

Click here to see Terra State’s other Degree Transfer Options

Meet our Physical Therapist Assistant faculty

Our PTA faculty are happy to answer any questions you have about the program.

Faculty & Staff Directory

Get Started

Apply Visit & Tour Request Info