PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT
Launch your healthcare career as a Physical Therapist Assistant. Work under the supervision of a physical therapist to enhance patient mobility and alleviate pain.
THE RIVER CAN HELP YOU…
- Take the National Physical Therapist Assistant Exam (NPTE-PTA) exam in Florida.
- Become a critical part of a healthcare team and work in a hospital, physical therapist’s office, skilled nursing facility or in home care.
- Build personal, leadership and career skills needed by healthcare workers through our active chapter of Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA).
AVAILABLE PROGRAM
Associate in Science in Physical Therapist Assistant
Associate Degree
Application Window: January 12, 2026 through May 8, 2026
Program Start: Fall 2026
The Physical Therapist Assistant program is a selective-admissions program. Students are selected based on criteria outlined in the Physical Therapist Assistant Application Book.
Note that illicit drug use, background check findings, convictions and immunization status may prevent your future employment. In addition, externship sites and employers may have regulations about drug use, criminal backgrounds and immunization status.
Indian River State College offers a number of different degrees and certificates leading to professional licensure in the state of Florida. Some professions require both a degree and the successful completion of additional criteria such as licensure exams, field placements, or clinical hours.
Completion of the Physical Therapist Assistant program requirements makes you eligible to apply to take the National Physical Therapist Assistant Exam (NPTE-PTA) exam in Florida.. Eligibility, as defined in F.S. 486.081, also requires possession of a valid form of identification. Please visit the Florida Senate website to ensure your eligibility.
If you choose to reside outside of Florida, Indian River State College cannot confirm whether this degree program meets educational requirements for professional licensure/certification in your state. Some states have requirements in addition to the program’s curriculum. If you wish to take the National Physical Therapist Assistant Exam (NPTE-PTA) exam in another state, contact the regulator of professions and occupations in the state to determine whether this degree will meet their licensure requirements.
Professional Licensure and Certification Disclosure Table for Physical Therapist Assistant
| Accreditation The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Indian River State 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 needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 772-462-7771 or email wmcnall@irsc.edu. |
Complaints
Any student enrolled in the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Indian River State College may file a complaint that a violation of College policy has been committed. Such a complaint may be submitted in writing to the Dean of Health Science, Dr. Ann Hubbard. All formal complaints will be investigated within thirty (30) business days. All records of complaints will be confidentially maintained in the Office of Health Sciences for a time of five years.
Ann Hubbard, Ed.D., D.N.P., C.N.E.
Dean of Health Science Division
3209 Virginia Avenue Fort Pierce, FL 24981-5596
ahubbard@irsc.edu
Description
Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) play a crucial role in patient care, working directly with individuals under the supervision of a physical therapist. In this program, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills to assist in improving patients’ movement, helping them restore physical function and providing pain relief. PTAs are essential in preventing or limiting the long-term effects of injuries and illnesses.
Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared to sit for the Florida Jurisprudence Examination and the National Physical Therapist Assistant Exam (NPTE-PTA) in Florida. Achieving licensure opens doors to employment in hospitals, physical therapy offices, skilled nursing facilities and home healthcare settings.
Additional Program Information:
- Physical Therapist Assistant Program Expenses
- Physical Therapist Assistant Program Graduate Outcomes
- Physical Therapist Assistant Program Student Handbook
- Physical Therapist Assistant FAQ
- Physical Therapy Observation – Experience Form
- Physical Therapy Financial Fact Sheet
- Occupational Risks
- Health Science Physical Examination and Immunization Form
- Background Check and Drug Screening Requirements
- Health Sciences Division Handbook
- Post Exposure Protocol
- CPR Training
- Report Accident (Incident) Form
- AG Student Accident Claim Form
- Liability/Accident Insurance Coverage
- Insurance Procedures
- Allied Health Program Overview
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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
At Indian River State College, our students who study Physical Therapist Assistant can go into these careers:
WE’RE HERE TO HELP
For more information about our Physical Therapist Assistant program, contact us or request more information to talk to one of our admissions counselors.
NEXT STEPS
APPLY TO THE RIVER
Discover what’s possible at Indian River State College. When you’re ready, our simple application process is here to help you take the next step.
PAYING FOR COLLEGE
We’re here to help you understand your options. From financial aid to scholarships and affordable tuition, The River is committed to making college accessible for everyone.
VISIT CAMPUS
Experience the energy of campus life for yourself. Schedule a tour to explore our facilities, meet students and staff, and discover what makes The River an incredible place to learn and grow.
