If you’re looking into how to become a physical therapist assistant in 2025, you’re probably doing more than checking off school requirements. You want to build a reliable, in-demand career in physical therapy, and you want clear steps to get there.
At Flagstar Rehab, we work directly with licensed physical therapists, therapist assistants, and healthcare providers nationwide. We’ve helped thousands of PTA students and new graduates enter the job market with the right credentials, the right experience, and the right mindset. We know what employers expect, what programs actually prepare students well, and where many applicants fall short.
A physical therapist assistant (PTA) helps licensed physical therapists carry out treatment plans. `d and electrical stimulation, and track their progress to provide physical therapy service.
As a PTA, I’ve worked in outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities, and home health agencies. Most PTAs work full-time under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist, supporting patients who are recovering from surgery, illness, or injury.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for PTAs is projected to grow by 24% between 2021 and 2031. That’s much faster than average for most professions. Around 25,500 job openings for PTAs are expected each year, driven by the aging population and increased demand for physical therapy services.
The national median salary for physical therapist assistants is about $62,770, but that can vary based on geographic location, experience level, and setting. Some of the highest-paying positions are found in home health, outpatient clinics, and skilled nursing facilities.
To start, you need a high school diploma or GED. You also need a background in basic sciences and math. Some PTA programs may expect applicants to have completed a Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or volunteer hours in a healthcare setting.
Before applying, most physical therapist assistant education programs will ask you to complete pre-requisite courses. These usually include:
These courses may be completed before application at a community college or high school dual enrollment.
Once the prerequisites are done, the next step is applying to a PTA program. These are usually selective admissions programs, which means not every applicant is accepted. Most programs are offered through a community college, vocational school, or school of health sciences.
What You’ll Need to Apply:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Transcripts | High school and/or college |
| GPA | Minimum varies (2.5–3.0 typically) |
| Pre-requisite courses | Must be completed prior to application |
| Criminal background check | Required by most programs |
| Application essay or intent | Some programs ask for a personal statement |
| BLS Certification | Often required before clinical rotations |
Look for an accredited program recognized by CAPTE (Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education). Accreditation in physical therapy guarantees that the curriculum meets national standards and prepares students for licensure.
Most PTA programs last about two years (five semesters) and result in an associate degree or applied science degree upon successful completion . The program includes a pre-clinical phase and a technical phase.
| Phase | Details |
|---|---|
| Pre-Clinical | General education and required courses like anatomy and writing |
| Technical Phase | Core PTA courses, labs, and clinical placements |
Total time: ~70–73 credit hours.
Required Courses Often Include:
Some programs also require 1 credit of “student success” or college readiness courses.
Hands-on clinical education is a big part of becoming a physical therapist assistant. During this time, you’ll train under a licensed physical therapist or experienced therapist assistant at clinical sites like hospitals, home health agencies, outpatient facilities, and skilled nursing centers.
To work legally in the U.S., you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs. This national licensure examination is managed by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.
Most graduates take the test shortly after finishing their PTA degree, paving the way for life long learning in the field .
Once you pass your licensure exam, you’re ready to enter the workforce. Most new PTAs start in outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities, or home health settings.
If you’re looking for help finding work, agencies like Flagstar Rehab can connect you with employers in your area or across the country. We work with health care providers who are actively hiring and help prepare students for interviews, paperwork, and licensure verification.
You can keep building your skills through continuing education and certifications. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) offers Advanced Proficiency Pathways in several areas:
These specializations can help you earn more and qualify for new job titles.
If you want to keep going after your associate degree level, some PTA graduates pursue a bachelor’s degree in health sciences or a related field. Others become adjunct instructors or rehab department supervisors. You can also transfer credits from your PTA program to a four-year school, especially if your program has articulation agreements.
Becoming a physical therapist assistant in 2025 is a practical, in-demand career path that requires physical therapy education and offers stability, growth, and hands-on impact. With the right education, clinical training, and licensure, you’ll be ready to provide essential physical therapy services in outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities, and home health agencies. At Flagstar Rehab, we help connect qualified PTAs with real job opportunities nationwide, whether you’re a student, new graduate, or licensed professional. If you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to support your career from application to placement.
At Flagstar Rehab, we connect qualified physical therapist assistants with hiring healthcare providers nationwide. Whether you’re still a PTA student, just passed the national physical therapy exam, or looking to move into a new role, we can help.
We work with employers in clinical sites, skilled nursing facilities, and home health agencies. Our team supports every step, from job search to credentialing, to make sure you’re ready for the next phase in your PTA career. Contact us today to explore open positions or request job placement support.
Becoming a physical therapist assistant can be challenging because the coursework is demanding and the schedule is often full-time. You’ll need to complete classes in anatomy, exercise physiology, and therapeutic techniques, along with hands-on clinical education. Most students succeed by staying organized, studying regularly, and using their clinical experiences to apply what they learn.
It takes about 2 years to become a physical therapist assistant in Arkansas. Most PTA programs include five semesters of coursework and clinical training. After graduation, you must pass the national licensure examination to work in the state.
In Oklahoma, PTA programs usually take around two years to complete. That includes general education courses, PTA-specific training, and clinical rotations. After finishing the program, you’ll need to pass the national exam to get licensed.
Yes. According to labor statistics, the job outlook is strong, with 24% projected growth from 2021 to 2031. PTAs earn a median salary of around $62,770, and many jobs offer flexible hours and a variety of clinical settings. It’s a hands-on role that provides job stability and opportunities for growth.