πŸ₯ Healthcare ↑ 18% growth Β· Much faster than average

Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

PTAs help injured patients recover movement and manage pain under the supervision of physical therapists. They guide exercises, apply therapeutic modalities, and cheer patients through the hard work of recovery.

$62,770 Median Salary
100K US Jobs
2 years Training
$10,000–$35,000 Typical Cost

πŸ’° Salary & Earning Potential

Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Figures represent national averages β€” local wages vary by state, city, and employer.

Entry Level
$46,000
Median
$62,770
Experienced
$80,000
Want your state's salary? Select a state below to see local wage data, demand, and training programs.

πŸ“ˆ Job Outlook

18%
Projected Growth (10yr)
Much faster than average
100K
Total US Jobs
Active positions nationwide
PTA License
Required Credential
PTA License (NPTE-PTA exam)

πŸŽ“ Training & Education

Typical Program
AAS in Physical Therapist Assistant
Program Length
2 years
Typical Tuition
$10,000–$35,000
Work Setting
Outpatient clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, schools
πŸ† Credential Required: PTA License (NPTE-PTA exam)

β˜€οΈ Day in the Life

A typical day as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) involves working closely with clients and colleagues in a Outpatient clinics environment. You'll apply your training daily while building expertise and advancing your career.

βš–οΈ Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • βœ… Strong job security
  • βœ… Rewarding work
  • βœ… Clear career progression
  • βœ… Growing demand

Challenges

  • ⚠️ Can be physically demanding
  • ⚠️ May require ongoing certification
  • ⚠️ Entry-level wages vary by region

🏫 Schools Offering This Program

Public State College
⭐ 97

Polk State College

πŸ“ Winter Haven, FL

One of Florida's top-rated community colleges for allied health. Near-perfect licensure pass rates across all programs. ...

Respiratory CareCardiovascular TechnologyPhysical Therapist AssistantRadiographyNursing (RN)
Public State College
⭐ 93

Hillsborough Community College (HCC)

πŸ“ Tampa, FL

Major Tampa Bay area college with extensive allied health and trades programs. Multiple campus locations across Hillsbor...

Nursing (RN)Dental HygieneRadiographySonographyPhysical Therapist Assistant
Public State College
⭐ 92

Santa Fe College

πŸ“ Gainesville, FL

Top-rated college in North Central Florida. Particularly strong in veterinary technology, nursing, and trades....

Nursing (RN)Veterinary TechnologyDental HygienePhysical Therapist AssistantEMS
Community College
⭐ 90

Jefferson State Community College

πŸ“ Birmingham, AL

Largest community college in the Birmingham metro area (13,000+ students). Nationally recognized allied health programs ...

Nursing (RN/ADN)Surgical TechnologyRadiologic TechnologyRespiratory TherapyMedical Laboratory Technology

πŸ—ΊοΈ Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) by State

See local salary data, licensing requirements, and schools in your state: