Physical Therapy Assistant Programs in Long Beach, California
Becoming a Physical Therapy Assistant in Long Beach, California
If you’re considering a rewarding career as a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) in Long Beach, California, you’re in the right place. PTAs play a crucial role in helping patients recover from injuries and improve their physical health. This guide will walk you through the process of becoming a PTA, including education paths, local PTA programs, and licensure requirements.
About Long Beach
Long Beach, California, is a bustling coastal city known for its diverse culture, beautiful waterfront, and thriving arts scene. Located in Los Angeles County, Long Beach offers a unique blend of urban and beach lifestyles. The city is home to attractions like the Queen Mary, the Aquarium of the Pacific, and the vibrant Downtown Long Beach area. For more information about the city, visit the official Long Beach website.
PTA Training Programs in Long Beach, California
Long Beach offers several options for pursuing a career as a Physical Therapy Assistant. Here are three local schools with PTA programs:
- Long Beach City College
- Located in the Eastside neighborhood, Long Beach City College offers an accredited PTA program. The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience, preparing students for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE).
- Long Beach City College PTA Program
- Cerritos College
- Situated in nearby Norwalk, just a short drive from Long Beach, Cerritos College provides a comprehensive PTA program. The program emphasizes hands-on training and prepares students for licensure in California.
- Cerritos College PTA Program
- Santa Ana College
- Located in Santa Ana, approximately 20 miles from Long Beach, Santa Ana College offers a CAPTE-accredited PTA program. The program includes extensive clinical practicums and coursework in anatomy, physiology, and therapeutic exercises.
- Santa Ana College PTA Program
PTA Employment Opportunities in Long Beach
Long Beach is home to several major healthcare facilities and clinics where PTAs can find employment opportunities:
- Long Beach Memorial Medical Center
- Located in the Memorial Heights neighborhood, this facility is one of the largest hospitals in the area, offering a wide range of services, including physical therapy.
- Long Beach Memorial Medical Center Careers
- St. Mary Medical Center
- Situated in the Downtown Long Beach area, St. Mary Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services and has a dedicated physical therapy department.
- St. Mary Medical Center Careers
- Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach
- Located adjacent to Long Beach Memorial, this hospital specializes in pediatric and women’s health services, including rehabilitation and physical therapy.
- Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Careers
Prerequisites for PTA Programs
To enroll in a PTA program, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum age of 18
- Completion of prerequisite courses (e.g., anatomy, physiology)
- Passing scores on entrance exams (if required)
- Background check and medical clearance
PTA Licensure Requirements in California
To become a licensed PTA in California, you must:
- Graduate from a CAPTE-accredited PTA program
- Obtain a Certificate of Completion Form (P1E)
- Submit an application for licensure to the Physical Therapy Board of California (PTBC)
- Pass the NPTE administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT)
- Complete continuing competency hours for license renewal
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 Long Beach, California, is a rewarding journey. With the right education and training, you can make a significant impact on patients’ lives. Contact a local school today to learn more about their PTA programs and take the first step toward your new career.
For more information on the job outlook for Physical Therapist Assistants, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.