Hey everyone, I'm a high school junior and I've been really interested in Physical Therapy Assistant programs lately. I live in North Carolina and I'm hoping to find some info on the best PTA schools around here. Can anyone point me in the right direction or recommend any schools in the state? Thanks so much!
Hi there! It's wonderful that you've discovered an interest in becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA). In North Carolina, you'll find a variety of PTA programs, mainly offered by community colleges. Here are some well-regarded PTA schools in the state:
1. Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) - Located in Charlotte, the PTA program at CPCC has a strong reputation. The program spans five semesters and includes both classroom instruction and clinical experiences to prepare students for their careers.
2. Southwestern Community College (SCC) - SCC, located in Sylva, offers a PTA program that combines classroom and lab coursework with clinical education to provide a well-rounded education. The program is typically completed in two years.
3. Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College (ABTech) - The PTA program at A-B Tech in Asheville is another great option. It is a five-semester program that combines didactic and laboratory instruction with supervised clinical experiences.
4. Durham Technical Community College (DTCC) - DTCC's PTA program, located in Durham, is highly competitive and prepares students through a mix of classroom, lab, and clinical experiences.
5. Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC) - Located in Fayetteville, FTCC's PTA program is comprehensive, covering everything from basic sciences to clinical experiences. Students complete the program in two years.
Before you apply to any of these programs, it's essential to ensure that they are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). This accreditation is crucial to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).
When researching these schools, look at program outcomes, such as pass rates for the licensure exam and graduation rates. Additionally, consider factors such as campus setting, class size, tuition costs, and available financial aid. Schedule campus visits and talk to current students or graduates to get a better feel for each program.
Best of luck in finding the PTA program that works best for you!
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