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Physical Therapist Assistant

Degree Overview

Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant

South University Physical Therapist Assistant Overview
South University Physical Therapist Assistant Overview

Physical therapist assistants are healthcare providers who work under the supervision of physical therapists. Their duties include assisting the physical therapist in implementing treatment programs according to a plan of care, training patients in exercises and activities of daily living, conducting treatments using special equipment, administering modalities and other treatment procedures and reporting to the physical therapist on the patient's responses. Upon completing the Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant degree, you'll be able to translate the knowledge you gained from your courses to pursue work* as a PTA.

South University’s PTA program meets the professional licensure requirements for Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. Outside agencies control the requirements for taking and passing certification/licensing exams and are subject to change without notice to South University.

*South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.

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Available Locations

Richmond, VA Virginia Beach, VA
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Campuses offer flexible learning formats* including: on-campus, virtual instructions, and online courses.

*Clinical, practicum, and externship requirements exist in certain programs and require field experiences. Learning formats may not be flexible.

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Outstanding Education for Remarkable Careers

Success Stories

We're committed to helping our graduates make an impact in their professional and personal lives. We applaud our alumni and the difference they make. Check out what some of our healthcare graduates have to say.

Demitrius Archie
Demitrius Archie Grad Alumni
Class of '20
Master of Healthcare Administration-South University, Online Programs

“I was the first in my family to go into the military, and the first person of my siblings to graduate with a degree.”

Michela Mazard
Michela Lambert Mazard Grad Alumni
Class of ‘11 and ‘16
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing-South University, Online Programs

“I wanted an education that would prepare me to build relationships and treat patients and families throughout their lifespan with interaction among their physical, emotional, and mental systems. I chose South University because I was confident that I would receive a well-rounded education that ensures I am armed with the skill set I need to provide the best care possible. Read more”

Robyn Smith 2007
Robyn Smith Grad Alumni
Class of '07
Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant-South University, Montgomery

“I had only heard good things about their PTA program and I knew I wanted to be a part of it. I find it very rewarding and emotional when a patient of mine who hasn't walked in a while takes steps again. It makes going to work everyday worth it to know that i can help improve the quality of life for some of these people.”

Allyson Obluck 2017
Allyson Obluck Grad Alumni
Class of '17
Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant-South University, Tampa

“I wanted to make a difference and I knew occupational therapy was a hands-on way to improve quality of life for many people. My professors always made the effort to ensure that I understood the material and were constantly encouraging me to be better and do better. All of my experiences throughout my clinical rotations challenged me to think outside the box and to trust my instincts.”

Stephanie Brendel-Schicchi null
Stephanie Brendel-Schicchi Grad Alumni
Class of '15
Associate of Science in Allied Health Science-South University, Online Programs

“By enrolling at South University, I was recognized as being promotable by having my Associates degree along with the goal of earning my Bachelors of Science in Health Sciences by 2016. With the Associates degree in hand, I went from an administrative assistant to a Quality Specialist. I wish I could have started college right out of high school, but it wasn’t in my life’s plan at that moment. Going back to school was a big decision and hard choice to make, but after enrolling I knew I couldn’t give up, because education is the most important aspect of my life right now.”