Physical Therapy Assistant Programs in St. Louis, Missouri

Becoming a Physical Therapy Assistant in St. Louis, Missouri

Are you considering a career as a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) in St. Louis, Missouri? This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a PTA, including education paths, certification, and training options available locally. A PTA works under the supervision of a physical therapist to help patients regain movement and manage pain. With the right training and certification, you can embark on a rewarding career in healthcare.

About St. Louis

St. Louis, located on the western bank of the Mississippi River, is a city rich in history and culture. Known for its iconic Gateway Arch and a thriving arts scene, St. Louis offers a diverse range of neighborhoods and communities. For more information about the city, visit the official St. Louis website.

PTA Training Programs in St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis offers several accredited programs for aspiring Physical Therapy Assistants. Here are some options:

1. St. Louis Community College
   Located in the Forest Park neighborhood, St. Louis Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Physical Therapist Assistant. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) and includes coursework in medical diseases, kinesiology, and clinical experiences. For more details, visit the PTA program page.

2. State Technical College of Missouri
   Although located outside St. Louis, State Technical College of Missouri offers a comprehensive PTA program that includes both theoretical and practical training. The program is designed to prepare students for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). For more information, visit their program page.

3. Maryville University
   Situated in the Town and Country neighborhood, Maryville University provides a robust PTA program that emphasizes hands-on clinical experience. The curriculum covers essential topics such as orthopedic pathology and applied neurology. Learn more about their offerings on their website.

PTA Employment Opportunities in St. Louis

St. Louis is home to numerous healthcare facilities where PTAs can find employment:

1. Barnes-Jewish Hospital
   Located in the Central West End, Barnes-Jewish Hospital is one of the largest hospitals in Missouri. It offers a wide range of employment opportunities for PTAs. Visit their careers page for more information.

2. SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital
   Situated in the Richmond Heights neighborhood, SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital is known for its comprehensive rehabilitation services. Check out their employment opportunities to explore available positions.

3. Mercy Hospital St. Louis
   Located in Creve Coeur, Mercy Hospital St. Louis provides extensive physical therapy services and regularly seeks qualified PTAs. Visit their careers page for current job listings.

Prerequisites for PTA Programs

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

• A high school diploma or equivalent
• A minimum GPA of 2.5
• Completion of prerequisite courses such as Anatomy and Physiology
• Observation hours with a licensed physical therapist or PTA
• Submission of an application through the PTA Centralized Application Service (PTA-CAS) for some programs

PTA Licensure Requirements in Missouri

In Missouri, PTAs must obtain licensure from the Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts. The requirements include:

• Completion of a CAPTE-accredited PTA program
• Passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)
• Submission of a notarized application with a recent photograph
• Providing official transcripts and an activities statement

For more details, visit the Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts.

Licensure Reciprocity

Missouri does not have specific reciprocity agreements with other states for PTA licensure. However, PTAs licensed in other states can apply for licensure in Missouri by endorsement, provided they meet the state’s requirements.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Physical Therapy Assistant in St. Louis, Missouri, is a fulfilling journey. With a variety of educational programs and employment opportunities, you can start making a difference in patients’ lives. Contact a local school today to learn more about their PTA programs and take the first step towards your new career.

For more information on the job outlook for PTAs, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.