Physical Therapist Assistant

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

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

$11,004

Additional cost may apply.

Time to Complete

2 years

Primary Location

Canyon County Center

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.

Area of Study

Financial Fact Sheet

Degrees & Certificates

Physical Therapist Assistant – Associates of Applied Science Degree

YEARS

AAS

Degree Requirements

Cost: $11,004

View Catalog Preview Classes Cost of Attendance

Student Outcomes

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	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024	2-Year Average	5-Year Average
Graduation Rate	93%	93%	96%	98%	88%	94%	94%
Licensure Exam Pass Rate	89%	91%	92%	88%	91%	94%	92%
Employment Rate	100%	100%	95%	100%	96%	98%	99%

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Physical Therapist Assistant helping a patient do exercises in clinic

Career Opportunities

Physical Therapist Assistants
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.
107
Annual Openings*
^$27.22
Hourly Median Wage*
^$56,618
Annual Median Salary
32.07^%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*

*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

Review the Physical Therapist Assistant Application Steps which includes details on:
- admission to CWI
- prerequisite and corequisite classes
- transcripts
- references
- clinical hours
- apply to the program
- next steps

STEP 2

Complete each step of the application process as indicated.

Step 3

Submit the program application and necessary documentation by the deadline.

Fall 2025 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.

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Cost & Aid

As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.

Enrichment Opportunities

Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.

Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

Requirements for professional licensure in healthcare and other fields vary from state to state. Contact the appropriate licensing agency in the state or territory you intend to work to verify this program meets licensure requirements.

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Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.

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Health Programs Application Deadlines

Applications are now being accepted for College of Western Idaho’s Health Science programs.

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Health Programs 2023 Application Deadlines

Applications are now being accepted for College of Western Idaho’s Health Science programs.

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2022 Fall Health Professions Open House

College of Western Idaho invites anyone interested in or thinking about pursuing a career in healthcare to attend the 2022 Health Professions Open House Tuesday, Nov. 1.

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