Physical Therapy Assistant Programs in Arkansas

Physical Therapy Assistant Career Guide: Arkansas

Are you interested in becoming a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) in Arkansas? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about launching your PTA career in the Natural State, from education requirements to employment opportunities.

What is the Job Outlook for PTAs in Arkansas?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment outlook for Physical Therapy Assistants in Arkansas is promising. The field is projected to grow by 20% through 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. PTAs in Arkansas earn an average annual salary of $57,280, making it a financially rewarding career choice.

For detailed salary and employment statistics, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page on Physical Therapist Assistants.

What Education Do You Need to Become a PTA in Arkansas?

To become a licensed PTA in Arkansas, you must complete these essential steps:

1. Earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree from a CAPTE-accredited program
2. Complete required clinical education hours
3. Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE-PTA)
4. Pass Arkansas’s jurisprudence exam
5. Obtain state licensure through the Arkansas State Board of Physical Therapy

Which Schools Offer PTA Programs in Arkansas?

Arkansas offers two primary CAPTE-accredited PTA programs:

NorthWest Arkansas Community College
– Location: Bentonville, AR
– Program: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assisting
– View Program Details

Arkansas State University
– Location: Jonesboro, AR
– Program: Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assisting
– View Program Details

What Are the Licensure Requirements in Arkansas?

To obtain your PTA license in Arkansas, you must:

• Graduate from a CAPTE-accredited program
• Pass the NPTE-PTA ($485 exam fee plus $70 testing center fee)
• Complete the state jurisprudence exam
• Pass a criminal background check
• Submit your application to the Arkansas State Board of Physical Therapy
• Pay all applicable licensing fees

How Do You Maintain Your PTA License?

License renewal in Arkansas requires:
– Annual renewal ($45 fee)
– 12 continuing education hours annually:
– 2 hours of jurisprudence education
– 10 hours of professional development

Where Can PTAs Work in Arkansas?

Major employers of PTAs in Arkansas include:

• UAMS Medical Center
  • Location: Little Rock, AR
  • View Job Opportunities
• Arkansas Children’s Hospital
  • Location: Little Rock, AR
  • View Career Options

How Can You Advance Your PTA Career?

Career advancement opportunities include:
– Specialization certifications in:
– Orthopedic physical therapy
– Neurological physical therapy
– Pediatric physical therapy
– Advanced certifications such as:
– CPTA-O (Orthopedic)
– CPTA-N (Neurological)
– CPTA-P (Pediatric)

What Professional Organizations Should You Join?

Consider membership in these organizations:
– Arkansas Physical Therapy Association
– American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)

These organizations provide networking opportunities, continuing education resources, and professional development support.

How Do You Get Started?

1. Research the PTA programs at NWACC and Arkansas State University
2. Complete prerequisite courses (anatomy, physiology, algebra)
3. Apply to your chosen program
4. Begin your educational journey toward becoming a licensed PTA

For more information about becoming a PTA in Arkansas, contact the Arkansas State Board of Physical Therapy at (501) 228-7100 or email [email protected].