Heal. Guide. Empower.
Help patients write their comeback stories through healing and movement.
As a physical therapist assistant, you’ll be instrumental in helping patients rebuild their lives after injury, illness or surgery. Working under the supervision of licensed physical therapists, you’ll guide patients through balance activities, gait training and therapeutic exercises, and provide the encouragement needed to regain strength, mobility and independence.
Owens’ Physical Therapist Assistant Program, AAS is your pathway to this gratifying career, where you’ll serve as part healer, part coach and part educator. You’ll promote healing through therapeutic modalities that reduce pain and inflammation and empower patients with education to prevent future injuries.
Key qualities for success in physical therapy:
- Compassion and Empathy: Connect with and support patients through their recovery journey.
- Strong Communication Skills: Clearly explain exercises and collaborate effectively with patients and healthcare teams.
- Attention to Detail: Follow treatment plans precisely and monitor patient progress for safety and optimal outcomes.
If you’re planning to continue to a bachelor’s degree program, Owens’ Pre-Physical Therapist Concentration, AS program is your path.
Small Classes. Expert Guidance.
At Owens, you have a team of dedicated, experienced professionals guiding you. In turn, your faculty will be supported by an Advisory Committee of local professionals.
Our instructors are experts who take pride in your success. Combined with our small class sizes, you’ll get one-on-one mentorship and precise technical feedback tailored to your goals.
Award Type
Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Department
Department of Physical Therapist Assistant
Required Credit Hours
63-65
Looking Ahead
$58,740
Average annual salary for PTAs in Ohio
100%
Job placement rate for graduates seeking employment
From Pathology Basics to Restoring Function
Your five-semester journey begins with the study of the structure and function of the human body through anatomy and physiology, and the exploration of movement through kinesiology. You’ll be introduced to the PTA profession and gain an early understanding of the common pathologies encountered in physical therapy.
As you progress, you’ll deepen your understanding of neurological and musculoskeletal procedures, learning the science behind therapeutic movement, functional anatomy and rehabilitation techniques.
Summer brings a focus on communication and critical thinking, while expanding your knowledge of therapeutic modalities, including heat, cold, electrical stimulation and ultrasound to manage pain and promote healing through physical agents. You’ll build on your knowledge of functional anatomy and kinesiology through the study of orthopedic diseases and conditions.
In your final year, study human behavior, evidence-based practice, and the realities of today’s healthcare system through psychology, sociology and medical terminology.
Gain extensive hands-on clinical experience through three semesters of directed practice in real healthcare settings. These rotations give you the chance to work alongside licensed professionals, applying what you’ve learned with actual patients in a supervised setting.
Review this important information about the PTA program:
Career Outcomes
Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). Pass the examination and you’ll be ready to step confidently into the workforce in this high-demand and rewarding field.
PTAs from Owens work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, sports medicine facilities, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, in-home care and schools. Wherever you go, you’ll become a vital member of the healthcare team while empowering patients to improve their quality of life.
Explore the employment data to understand trends in our area.
In Their Words
“Everyone knows everyone, so you get a good one-on-one connection and teachers will help you succeed. It’s a great affordable option, but you’re getting just as good, if not better, education than other, more expensive places.”
Jeramy Hermiller, Physical Therapy Assistant, ’25
Selective Admission
The Physical Therapist Assistant Program, AAS is a “Selective Health” program—meaning we can only admit a limited number of students each year. Prospective students should apply to Owens first, then to the Physical Therapist Assistant program. Class admission uses a point-based system based on your academic record.
First, we look at your grade point average (GPA). Next, bonus points are awarded for the most physical therapist assistant general education courses earning a C or better. If you haven’t taken enough of those courses, we look only at your high school GPA. General education courses can be taken before you’re admitted to the program.
If you choose a different program at Owens, these general education courses may also count toward it. Work with your advisor early and often if you are considering multiple programs. See how the points work.
For clinical placement, you are required to submit documentation of a completed health exam, background check, CPR certification and additional requirements.
Accreditation
The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Owens Community College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy (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 567-661-7568 or email sara_burke@owens.edu.
Contact Us
Sara Burke
Chair, Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Healthcare Education Center 132 P
Phone: (567) 661-7568
Email
New Owens Students
You’re ready to begin your physical therapist assistant journey and still need to apply to Owens.
Current Owens Students
You’re already an Owens student and ready to get started in your physical therapist assistant journey.
Submission Deadline: January 15, 2026