Physical Therapist Assistant Program

WELCOME TO THE Physical Therapist Assistant Program AT UTAH TECH UNIVERSITY!

Physical therapist assistants help transform society by optimizing movement to improve the human experience. Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants are movement experts who improve quality of life through prescribed exercise, hands-on care and patient education, treating people of all ages and abilities and empowering them to actively take part in their own care.

How to Apply

OUR MISSION

Utah Tech University’s Physical Therapist Assistant Program exists to prepare students to become physical therapy care providers exhibiting integrity, skill, and caring. The program emphasizes excellence in human interaction, technical skills, critical reasoning, and life-long learning.

PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES

Utah Tech University Physical Therapist Assistant Program students and graduates will:

1. Demonstrate entry level foundational skills. UT PTA graduates will be able to utilize cognitive, affective and psychomotor interventions under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist.
2. Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. UT PTA graduates will be able to uphold principals of ethical conduct for the PTA in all areas of practice as identified by the APTA.
3. Promote evidence-based physical therapy practice. UT PTA graduates will prioritize professional growth within the field and encourage life-long learning experience.
4. Critical thinking and problem solving. UT PTA graduates will be able to demonstrate skills required of an entry-level PTA to assist the supervising physical therapist in carrying out the plan of care (POC) and work as an effective member of the PT/PTA team.
5. Utilize effective oral and written communication. UT PTA graduates will be able to demonstrate skills with patients, their families, caregivers, other health care providers and the community.

Licensure

Utah Tech University Physical Therapist Assistant Program graduates are eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE), a required step toward receiving a physical therapist assistant license, which is required to practice physical therapy in the state of Utah.

The NPTE is administered through the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT), whose mission is to protect the public by providing service and leadership that promote safe and competent physical therapy practice.