Certified Physical Therapy Aide (Voucher Included)
Disclaimer
Continuing Education is a program of Santa Fe College's Center for Innovation and Economic Development (CIED).
These courses are non-credit, Industry certification courses and are not eligible for financial aid. Please contact Continuing Education at 352-395-5896 with questions, or for additional information.
Overview
There's a growing need for physical therapy aides. In fact, PT aide jobs will grow over 29 percent through 2029. This online course will help you master the skills you need to work as a physical therapy aide.
Not only will you be prepared for the AMCA's Physical Therapy Technician/Aide certification exam, but an externship starter kit will also walk you through everything you need to know to land a PT aide externship.
What you will learn
- Explain the role, responsibilities, and qualifications of the certified physical therapy aide in various healthcare settings.
- Define medical terminology and word elements related to the practice of physical therapy.
- Summarize human anatomy, functional body movements, and system disorders as they relate to physical therapy.
- Identify proper positioning, patient transfers, common exercises, modalities, and medical equipment.
- Demonstrate ethical and legal behavior specific to healthcare settings.
- Differentiate between tasks appropriate for a certified physical therapy aide and other healthcare professionals.
How you will benefit
- Holding AMCA Physical Therapy Technician/Aide certification validates your skill set
- Developing transferable skills increases employment opportunities at healthcare settings, including physical therapist offices, hospitals, and nursing home facilities
- Building out a professional portfolio showcases skills and prepares you for the job search
- Assistance from our Externship Coordinator and access to our Externship Starter Kit.
- The Physical Therapy Profession
- Medical Terminology
- Organization of the Human Body
- Principles of Pathology and Its Treatment
- Infection Control
- Body Mechanics
- Positioning and Draping Patients
- Transferring Patients Safely
- Wheelchair Basics
- Pressure Ulcers
- Normal and Abnormal Gait
- Ambulation Aids
- Ambulation Related Activities
- The Skeletal System
- The Muscular System
- Treatment of the Skeletal and Muscular Systems: Exercise
- Treatment of the Skeletal and Muscular Systems: Physical Agents
- The Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems
- The Nervous System
- Treatment of the Cardiovascular, Respiratory, and Nervous Systems
- The Rest of the Organ Systems
- Communication in the PT Facility
- Records and Charting
- Legal and Ethical Issues
- Your Career Journey (Optional Lesson)
Hardware Requirements:
- This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.
- Webcam and microphone for testing.
Software Requirements:
- PC: Windows 8 or newer.
- Mac: OS 10.6 or later.
- Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
- Adobe Acrobat Reader.
- Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.
Other:
- Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.
Instructional Material Requirements:
The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment. The following textbooks will be shipped to you approximately 7-10 business days after enrollment:
- Principles and Techniques of Patient Care
- Medical Terminology for Health Professions
There are no prerequisites to take this course. You do not need any prior experience or training in this field. However, if you plan to sit for the AMCA Certification Exam, candidates must be 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Holly Trimble earned a bachelor's degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Colorado, a master's degree in Pediatric Physical Therapy from Boston University, a master's degree in Biology from the University of Nebraska at Kearney, and a doctoral degree in Physical Therapy from Arcadia University. After working as a physical therapist for many years, Dr. Trimble transitioned into teaching. She has lectured on health-related topics to all age groups and has taught middle and high school science courses in both private and public school settings. She currently teaches Anatomy and Physiology for a local community college system, where she has taught for the past 15 years. Holly received the Adjunct Faculty Excellence Award both of the years she was nominated and is the author of the eBook, "College Success Now!"
Can I register for a course if I am an international student?
Yes, ed2go courses are completely online. However, keep in mind that not all certifying bodies or industry-specific certifications are recognized internationally. Please review your country's regulations prior to enrolling in courses that prepare for certification.
Does this course prepare for a certification?
Yes. The course prepares students for the Physical Therapy Technician/Aide Certification (PTTC) through American Medical Certification Association AMCA.
When can I start the course?
This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.
How long does it take to complete this course?
This course is self-paced and open enrollment, so you can start when you want and finish at your own pace. When you register, you'll receive nine (9) months to complete the course.
What if I don't have enough time to complete my course within the time frame provided?
The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact your Student Advisor to help you work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.
What kind of support will I receive?
You may be assigned with an instructor or team of industry experts for one-on-one course interaction. Your support will be available (via email) to answer any questions you may have and to provide feedback on your performance. All of our instructors are successful working professionals in the fields in which they teach. You will be assigned to an Advisor for academic support.
What happens when I complete the course?
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion.
Am I guaranteed a job?
This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.
Can I get financial assistance?
This course is non-credit, so it does not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll, if they meet certain requirements. Financing is available from select schools. Learn more about financial assistance.
How can I get more information about this course?
If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-877-221-5151 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us" form.