Physical Therapy Aide

Certificate Program

Program Overview

Description

This residential program is intended to train students for entry-level physical therapy aide positions. It covers topics such as medical terminology, anatomy & physiology, uses of physical therapy, modalities of physical therapy and the administrative role of aides.

Objective

To prepare the student for an entry-level position as a Physical Therapy Aide who can:

Identify the roles and job duties performed by a typical physical therapist aide and the personal qualities held by successful aides.
Demonstrate understanding of the importance of and techniques used in good customer service and effective communication between the aide, the physical therapist, and the patient.
Show understanding of common physical therapy techniques, including the use of heat and cold modalities, and their effects on the body.
Use appropriate medical terminology related to body systems and physical disorders in order to communicate accurately with patients and colleagues.
Show understanding of the importance of a safe health care environment, including potential hazards and fall prevention, and the aide’s role in maintaining a clean, safe workplace.

Program Details

Program Cost

Application Fee	$50
Tuition	$2,200
Lab Fee	$300
Uniform	$35
Total	$2,585

Credentialing Exams

Graduates are eligible to take AMCA’s Physical Therapy Technician Certification (PTTC) exam.

Clinicals (Externship)

A clinical (externship) course is included in this program to provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to real-life situations in a healthcare setting. Students are required to complete the required 800 clinical hours and other related learning activities prior to graduation. Students are not paid for work performed at the clinical site.

Program Resources

At GCHI, our program resources are designed to give you a hands-on learning experience that mirrors real-world clinical settings. Our facilities offer three distinct lab areas, each fully equipped to support specific programs and provide the skills you need for your career. Our resources also include:

A comprehensive library stocked with textbooks, reference materials, and medical journals
Conference room with white board to promote group collaborations
Computer lab with internet access
Scientific microscopes with access to a wide collection of samples
Ultrasound machines
Hospital beds
The Unetixs Peripheral Vascular System
Stress test machines
EKG machines
Medical Supplies
Hospital training manikins
CPR Manikins
And much more

Course List

Course Number	Course Name	Clock Hours
PTAide	Physical Therapy Aide Lecture	84
PTAide	Physical Therapy Aide Lab	12
PTCL	Clinical Rotation	80
	Total	176

Job Outlook

$58,740

2023 Median Pay

19 %

Much faster than average growth rate

27,500 +

Job openings projected each year

152,800

Jobs held in 2023

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides,
at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physical-therapist-assistants-and-aides.htm (visited November 18, 2024).

Now Enrolling

Registration Deadline

August 29, 2025
Fall Semester begins September 8, 2025

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