Physical Therapy Assistant Programs in Bakersfield, California

Becoming a Physical Therapy Assistant in Bakersfield, California

If you’re considering a career as a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) in Bakersfield, California, this guide will provide you with the essential information you need to get started. A PTA works under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist to help patients regain movement and manage pain. There are several educational paths to becoming a PTA, typically involving an Associate’s degree from an accredited program, which combines academic coursework with clinical experience.

About Bakersfield

Bakersfield, located in the heart of California’s Central Valley, is known for its rich history in agriculture and oil production. The city offers a unique blend of cultural attractions and outdoor activities, with landmarks such as the Kern County Museum and the Fox Theater. For more information about Bakersfield, visit the official city website.

PTA Training Programs in Bakersfield, California

Bakersfield offers several options for those interested in pursuing a career as a Physical Therapy Assistant. Here are some local schools with PTA programs:

1. Bakersfield College
   • Located in Northeast Bakersfield, Bakersfield College offers a comprehensive PTA program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). The program includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, and clinical experience. More details can be found on their PTA program page.
2. Unitek College
   • Although not located directly in Bakersfield, Unitek College offers a PTA program in nearby Fremont, California. This program is also CAPTE-accredited and provides a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice. Learn more about their program here.
3. American Career College
   • Situated in Los Angeles, American Career College provides another option for PTA training. Their program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the field. Visit their website for more information.

PTA Employment Opportunities in Bakersfield

Bakersfield is home to several healthcare facilities and clinics where PTAs can find employment. Here are a few notable options:

1. Adventist Health Bakersfield
   • Located in the Central Bakersfield area, Adventist Health is a major healthcare provider offering a range of services, including physical therapy. Explore their career opportunities for potential PTA positions.
2. Kern Medical
   • Situated in East Bakersfield, Kern Medical is a teaching hospital providing comprehensive healthcare services. They often have openings for PTAs in their rehabilitation department. Check their employment page for current listings.
3. Bakersfield Rehabilitation Hospital
   • This facility specializes in physical rehabilitation and is located in Southwest Bakersfield. They offer various opportunities for PTAs to work in a dynamic and supportive environment. Visit their official site for more information.

Prerequisites for PTA Programs

To enroll in a PTA program, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
– Graduation from an accredited high school or GED equivalency.
– A cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
– Completion of prerequisite courses such as Anatomy/Physiology I & II and Introduction to PTA with a grade of “C” or higher.

PTA Licensure Requirements in California

In California, PTAs must obtain licensure through the Department of Consumer Affairs Physical Therapy Board of California (PTBC). Requirements include:
– Graduation from a CAPTE-accredited program.
– Passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and the state jurisprudence exam.
– Completing a Certificate of Completion Form (P1E) from your school registrar.

For more information, visit the PTBC website.

Licensure Reciprocity

California does not have automatic licensure reciprocity with other states. However, PTAs licensed in other states may apply for licensure in California by endorsement, provided they meet the state’s requirements.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Physical Therapy Assistant in Bakersfield, California, is a rewarding decision. With the right education and training, you can make a significant impact on patients’ lives. Reach out to a local school today to begin your journey toward becoming a licensed PTA. For more information on the job outlook for PTAs, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.