Physical Therapist Assistant

Bridge Health and Well-Being with Training for an In-Demand Healthcare Career

Physical Therapist Assistant student aiding an injured student.

Program Overview

Are you passionate about helping people recover and regain their physical abilities? The Physical Therapist Assistant program at College of Western Idaho (CWI), a member of the Idaho Consortium for Physical Therapist Assistant Education, is designed for individuals like you who wish to make a difference in the field of physical therapy. In this program, you will learn the essential skills to assist physical therapists in treating patients. You will gain knowledge in exercise, mobility, and therapeutic techniques, contributing to the rehabilitation and recovery of those in need.

This program combines academic instruction with practical clinical experiences. You will be guided by experienced professionals and get hands-on training in real healthcare settings. This comprehensive approach ensures that you are well-prepared to support patients effectively and embark on a rewarding career as a Physical Therapist Assistant.

Degree or Certificate Type

Associate of Applied Science

Cost

$12,016

Additional cost may apply.

Time to Complete

2 years

Primary Locations

Nampa Campus

Group of students around instructor in lab

Learning Opportunities

  • Rehabilitation Techniques: Master a range of therapeutic exercises and mobility techniques to aid patient recovery.
  • Clinical Experience: Engage in hands-on clinical practice, applying your skills in a real-world setting.
  • Patient Care: Develop the ability to provide compassionate and effective care for patients with diverse needs.
  • Anatomy & Physiology: Gain in-depth knowledge of human anatomy and the physiological basis of movement and therapy.
  • Professional Development: Build the skills and confidence required to work alongside physical therapists and healthcare teams.

Areas of Study

Degrees & Certificates

Physical Therapist Assistant – Associate of Applied Science Degree
2 Years

AAS

Cost:
$12,016

Below are the student outcomes for the Physical Therapist Assistant program at College of Western Idaho, a member of the Idaho Consortium for Physical Therapist Assistant Education

Year 2023 2024 2025 2-Year Average (2024-2025)
Graduation Rate 100% 88% 88% 94%
First-Time Licensure Exam Pass Rate 88% 82% 76% 79%
Ultimate Licensure Exam Pass Rate 97% 96% 88% 92%
Employment Rate 100% 100% 100% 100%

Let's Get Started

Physical Therapist Assistant helping a patient do exercises in clinic

Career Opportunities

Assist physical therapists in providing physical therapy treatments and procedures. May, in accordance with state laws, assist in the development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, document the progress of treatment, and modify specific treatments in accordance with patient status and within the scope of treatment plans established by a physical therapist. Generally requires formal training.

89

Annual Openings*

$
28.62

Hourly Median Wage*

$
59,529

Annual Median Salary

33.46
%

Growth (2025 – 2035)*

*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.

Admissions

Admission into the Physical Therapist Assistant program is competitive and requires a supplemental application process.

STEP 1

STEP 2

  • Complete each step of the application process as indicated.

Step 3

  • Submit the program application and necessary documentation by the deadline.

Fall 2026 Application Period

  • Applications open in March.

Academic Calendar New Student Checklist

Program Accreditation

The Physical Therapist Assistant program at College of Western Idaho is accredited by:

Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
3030 Potomac Avenue, Suite 100
Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085
703.706.3245
accreditation@apta.org

If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 208.665.5051 or email jon.gardunia@nic.edu.

Let's Get Started

Let's Get Started

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Program QR Code

URL: https://cwi.edu/academics/career-technical-education/physical-therapist-assistant<br>