Program Description

This comprehensive Physical Therapy Aide program will prepare you for the growing field of Physical Therapy. The Physical Therapy Aide is generally responsible for carrying out the non-technical duties of physical therapy, such as ordering devices and supplies, preparing treatment areas, and transporting patients working under the direction of the physical therapist. Physical Therapy Aides may be employed in nursing homes, hospitals, sports rehabilitation centers, and some orthopedic clinics. You will be eligible to compete for a Physical Therapy Aide position in the growing healthcare field, once successfully finishing the program

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:
  • Identify the roles and job duties performed by a typical physical therapist aide and the personal qualities held by successful aides.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the importance of and techniques used in good customer service and effective communication between the aide, the physical therapist, and the patient.
  • Show understanding of common physical therapy techniques, including the use of heat and cold modalities, and their effects on the body.
  • Use appropriate medical terminology related to body systems and physical disorders in order to communicate accurately with patients and colleagues.
  • Show understanding of the importance of a safe health care environment, including potential hazards and fall prevention, and the aide’s role in maintaining a clean, safe workplace.

Job Outlook

$24.02 per hour median pay 2020

33% much faster than the average job growth

Employed at Offices of physical, occupational and speech therapists, and audiologists, Hospitals, Nursing care facilities and more

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physical-therapist-assistants-and-aides.htm

Program Details

Physical Therapy Aide

This program is intended to train students for entry level physical therapy aid positions. It covers topics such as medical terminology, anatomy & physiology, uses of physical therapy, modalities of physical therapy and the administrative role of aides.

Length: 176 Clock Hours; 12 Instructional Weeks
Credential Awarded: Certificate
Mode of Delivery: Residential

Lab Resources

Our program program utilizes both didactic and laboratory teaching methods followed by clinical experiences.  All classes are taught on-site, by instructors who are highly qualified in their areas.  The use of medical equipment gives students both the practical and theoretical knowledge necessary for success.

Some of the resources and equipment available for students:

  • Library, including Textbooks, Reference Books, Medical Journals
  • Stress Test Machine
  • EKG Machines
  • Vital Sign Monitors
  • Patient Lifts and other Assistance Equipment

Clinicals

An externship course is included in this program to provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to real-life situations in healthcare setting. Students are required to complete the required externship hours and other related learning activities prior to graduation.

Career Services

Norcross Institute offers a variety of personalized career services to current students and graduates. We work directly with employers to help provide exposure to our highly qualified students and graduates. Our goal is to align current students and graduates with employers and open positions that match their qualifications through our Employer Partnership Program.

We offer a range of job search strategies such as:

  • Interview tips & techniques
  • Information about career fields and employment outlook
  • Resumé and cover letter assistance
  • Individual career coaching targeted specifically to the student and his or her goals
  • Assist graduates in job placement with various hospitals

We also offer help on how to utilize various online employment websites for students and graduates, including E-Hire, which can send students job leads within a 50-mile radius of their zip code, specific to their certification. Although NIAH is devoted to helping students in job placement, the school cannot guarantee jobs to graduates upon program completion or upon graduation.

Ready to start? Submit your application today!

Enrolling Now. Please bring a completed and signed application during office hours along with the required documents.