Degree, On Campus
The Physical Therapist Assistant curriculum prepares graduates to work in direct patient care settings under the supervision of physical therapists. Assistants work to improve or restore function by alleviation or prevention of physical impairment and perform other essential activities in a physical therapy department.
Course work includes normal human anatomy and physiology, the consequences of disease or injury, and physical therapy treatment of a variety of patient conditions affecting humans throughout the life span.
The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Surry Community College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
This program is offered through our Career and College Promise Dual Enrollment program. View program outlines specific to your high school for full details.
Competitive admissions are anticipated for an intense program that leads to an intensely satisfying career. The program will admit a maximum of 16 students each Fall Semester.
Applicants are required to complete the TEAS Test along with additional requirements before applying. Taking the TEAS test does not necessarily qualify students for admissions into the PTA program.
Fall PTA students must turn in all materials by May 31.
Clinical Education Manual
Clinical Observation Form
Policy and Procedures Manual
PTA Admission Procedures
PTA Point Count Worksheet
This course introduces the college's physical, academic, and social environment and promotes the personal development essential for success. Topics include campus facilities and resources; policies, procedures, and programs; study skills; and life management issues such as health, self-esteem, motivation, goal-setting, diversity, and communication. Upon completion, students should be able to function effectively within the college environment to meet their educational objectives.
This course is designed to develop the ability to produce clear writing in a variety of genres and formats using a recursive process. Emphasis includes inquiry, analysis, effective use of rhetorical strategies, thesis development, audience awareness, and revision. Upon completion, students should be able to produce unified, coherent, well-developed essays using standard written English.
This course provides an overview of the scientific study of human behavior. Topics include history, methodology, biopsychology, sensation, perception, learning, motivation, cognition, abnormal behavior, personality theory, social psychology, and other relevant topics. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a basic knowledge of the science of psychology.
Available Courses: ART 111, ART 114, ART 115, ART 116, ART 118, ART 283, DRA 111, DRA 126, ENG 131, ENG 231, ENG 232, ENG 233, ENG 241, ENG 242, ENG 243, ENG 261, ENG 262, HUM 110, HUM 115, HUM 120, HUM 122, HUM 130, HUM 220, MUS 110, MUS 112, MUS 210, PHI 240, REL 110, REL 211, REL 212 or REL 221.
Total credits needed to graduate: 74 Hours
Graduates may be eligible to take the licensure examination administered by the NC Board of Physical Therapy Examiners. (A student with a felony may not be eligible for licensure or employment). Employment is available in general hospitals, rehabilitation centers, skilled nursing facilities, specialty hospitals, home health agencies, private clinics, and public school systems.
The goals of the PTA Program are to prepare graduates who:
Cost might be slightly higher or lower depending on expenses associated with clinical education. A breakdown of these expenses can be requested from the Program Director.
“The Finish Line Grant was a great resource to reduce the debt that I was incurring from being in school full-time. I encourage other students to check into the grants and scholarships being offered at Surry Community College. You might be pleasantly surprised like I was.”
Derick Mauck
Associate Degree in Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
Choosing a college is an important decision, and we’re pleased that you’re interested in Surry Community College.