Physical Therapy Assistant Programs in Denver, Colorado

Becoming a Physical Therapy Assistant in Denver, Colorado

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) in Denver, Colorado? This guide will help you navigate the path to becoming a PTA, including education, certification, and employment opportunities. PTAs play a crucial role in healthcare, assisting physical therapists in providing care that improves patient mobility and quality of life. Let’s explore the steps to becoming a PTA in Denver and the local options available to you.

About Denver

Denver, the capital of Colorado, is a bustling city known for its stunning mountain views and rich cultural scene. Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Denver offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and urban living. The city is home to diverse neighborhoods such as Capitol Hill, LoDo (Lower Downtown), and Cherry Creek, each offering its own distinct charm. For more information about Denver, visit the official city website.

PTA Training Programs in Denver, Colorado

Denver offers several accredited programs for aspiring Physical Therapy Assistants. Here are three local schools where you can pursue your PTA education:

1. Arapahoe Community College
   Located in Littleton, a suburb of Denver, Arapahoe Community College offers a CAPTE-accredited Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Physical Therapist Assisting. The program includes comprehensive coursework in anatomy, physiology, and therapeutic exercises. Learn more about their program here.

2. Pima Medical Institute – Denver
   Situated in the heart of Denver, Pima Medical Institute provides an Associate Degree in Physical Therapist Assisting. The curriculum covers essential topics such as kinesiology and professional ethics, preparing students for the NPTE. More details can be found here.

3. Front Range Community College
   Located in Westminster, just north of Denver, Front Range Community College offers an AAS degree in Physical Therapist Assisting. The program emphasizes hands-on training and clinical experience. Visit their program page here.

PTA Employment Opportunities in Denver

Denver is home to a variety of healthcare facilities and clinics where PTAs can find employment. Here are some major employers in the area:

1. UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital
   Located in the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, UCHealth is a leading healthcare provider offering numerous opportunities for PTAs. Explore their career opportunities here.

2. Denver Health
   Situated in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, Denver Health is a comprehensive healthcare system providing a wide range of services. PTAs can find diverse employment opportunities within their network. Visit their careers page here.

3. Children’s Hospital Colorado
   Located in Aurora, Children’s Hospital Colorado is renowned for its pediatric care. PTAs interested in working with children can find rewarding positions here. Check out their employment opportunities here.

Prerequisites for PTA Programs

To enroll in a PTA program, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• A high school diploma or GED.
• Completion of prerequisite courses such as biology and anatomy.
• Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years).
• Passing scores on entrance exams like the ACT or SAT.
• Some programs may require a background check and proof of immunizations.

PTA Licensure Requirements in Colorado

To practice as a PTA in Colorado, you must obtain a license through the Colorado State Physical Therapy Board. The process includes:

• Graduating from a CAPTE-accredited PTA program.
• Passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs.
• Submitting an application and affidavit of eligibility form, along with transcripts and a completion certification form.
• Completing a Healthcare Professional’s Profile as part of Colorado’s Health Care Professions Profiling Program (HPPP).

For more information, visit the Colorado State Physical Therapy Board.

Licensure Reciprocity

Colorado offers licensure reciprocity for PTAs with certain other states, allowing professionals to practice without retaking the NPTE. For specific details, contact the Colorado State Physical Therapy Board.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Physical Therapy Assistant in Denver, Colorado, is a fulfilling journey that offers the chance to make a significant impact on patients’ lives. With a variety of educational programs and employment opportunities, Denver is an excellent place to start your career. Reach out to a local school today to begin your path toward becoming a PTA.

For more information on the job outlook for Physical Therapist Assistants, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.