If you’re thinking about becoming a physical therapist assistant, you’re probably asking one key question: how many years to become a physical therapist assistant? Most PTA students complete their education and licensure process in about two years. But that timeline includes more than just classes. It involves clinical education, national licensure, and preparation for real-world work in physical therapy.
Here’s everything you need to know, broken down step by step, from high school to becoming a licensed physical therapist assistant.
To apply to any physical therapist assistant program, you’ll need a high school diploma or GED. This is the first requirement for starting your physical therapy education. In high school, courses in biology, anatomy, and exercise science can help you prepare.
Once you meet the basic educational requirements, the next step is to apply to a physical therapist assistant program. These are often selective admissions programs that only accept a limited number of students per year.
Each PTA program sets its own admission requirements. Most will ask for:
Some programs may require observation hours at clinical sites or interviews as part of the application.
Most PTA students complete an Associate of Applied Science degree in about two years or five semesters. That includes classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical education.
You’ll study both general education courses and core PTA courses. Topics in the PTA curriculum often include:
This part of your physical therapist assistant education is essential for preparing you to work under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist.
Your program will include clinical education at assigned clinical education sites. This is where you’ll gain real experience working with patients in:
You’ll typically spend around 16 weeks in full-time clinical assignments. This is about 25% of your program’s requirements. During this time, you’ll apply your classroom knowledge in real-world settings while being supervised by a licensed physical therapist.
| Stage | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| High school diploma or GED | 4 years (if starting from high school) |
| PTA Program (Associate’s Degree) | 2 years (5 semesters, including summer) |
| Clinical Education | Part of the 2-year program |
| NPTE Licensing Exam Prep & Testing | 1–3 months |
Total Time from Start to Licensure: ~24 to 30 months
Most PTA programs follow a two-year schedule, often including a summer semester to complete all required courses and clinical experience.
Each physical therapist assistant program offers different course descriptions, but most cover these key areas:
General Education Courses:
Core PTA Courses:
During your clinical education, you’ll complete rotations in multiple settings. These clinical sites help you build hands-on skills and prepare for working with people across the lifespan, from children to the aging population.
You’ll learn how to:
PTA programs are often limited in size and use selective admission policies. Some programs only accept students once per year.
Common admission requirements include:
Many students interested in PTA programs already work in allied health or as rehabilitation aides. But you don’t need a bachelor’s degree to apply.
After completing your PTA program, the next step is passing the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs. This is a state-administered national exam required for licensure.
You’ll usually take this exam within 1–3 months of graduating. After successful completion, you can apply for jobs as a licensed physical therapist assistant.
| Role | Degree Required | Total Education Time | Exam | Average Salary* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PTA | Associate’s Degree | ~2 years | NPTE (PTA) | ~$62,770 |
| PT | Doctorate (DPT) + Bachelor’s Degree | ~7 years | NPTE (PT) | ~$95,620 |
Note: This Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
PTAs support treatment and patient care. PTs diagnose and create care plans. Both roles are essential in delivering quality physical therapy services.
Yes. Many PTA students go on to earn a full physical therapy degree. This usually means:
Some schools offer bridge programs designed for working PTA professionals. But the process takes several more years.
The U.S. Department of Labor Statistics projects strong job growth for physical therapist assistants due to the needs of an aging population and the expansion of physical therapy services.
PTAs are among the most in-demand jobs in allied health, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Every physical therapist assistant program in the United States must be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Accreditation guarantees that the program meets national standards for physical therapy education, including curriculum quality, faculty qualifications, and clinical training requirements. Enrolling in a CAPTE-accredited program is required to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam and obtain your PTA license in most states.
Before choosing a school, it’s important to understand how each program performs. You can do this by reviewing public program effectiveness data, which may include graduation rates, national licensure examination pass rates, and post-graduation job placement.
Many schools make this data available on their websites. Reviewing the program’s effectiveness helps students interested in becoming a physical therapist assistant choose the right school based on real results, not just marketing.
At Flagstar Rehab, we work with PTA students, recent graduates, and experienced physical therapy assistants across the country. Whether you’re looking for work in outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities, or rehabilitation centers, our team can help you find the right fit. We’re connected to licensed physical therapists, clinical sites, and growing healthcare employers. Our recruiters understand the job market and support you every step of the way. Ready to take the next step in your physical therapy career? Contact Flagstar Rehab today to learn more about job opportunities for PTAs in your area.
It’s not hard, but it does require meeting specific requirements. PTA programs are competitive, and you’ll need to complete clinical education and pass a national licensure exam.
It usually takes about two years to complete a PTA program, plus a few months to prepare for and pass the NPTE. Most students are licensed within 24–30 months total.
Physical therapist assistants in California earn an average of $76,000 per year. Pay can vary based on experience and setting, with higher wages in outpatient clinics and skilled nursing facilities.
You need to complete an accredited PTA program, pass the National Physical Therapy Exam, and apply for licensure through the Maryland Board. A background check and supporting documents are also required.