Physical Therapy Assistant Programs in Fort Worth, Texas

Becoming a Physical Therapy Assistant in Fort Worth, Texas

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) in Fort Worth, Texas? This guide will help you navigate the process of becoming a PTA, from understanding what the role entails to exploring local PTA programs. PTAs work under the direction of physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries and improve their physical mobility. There are various educational paths to becoming a PTA, including associate degree programs offered by accredited schools.

About Fort Worth

Fort Worth, Texas, is a dynamic city known for its rich history and cultural landmarks such as the Fort Worth Stockyards and the Kimbell Art Museum. As part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, it offers a blend of urban and suburban living with a strong community feel. For more information about the city, visit the official Fort Worth website.

PTA Training Programs in Fort Worth, Texas

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

1. Tarrant County College (TCC)
   • Located in the heart of Fort Worth, TCC offers a comprehensive PTA program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice. For more details, visit the TCC PTA Program page.
2. Weatherford College
   • Situated approximately 30 miles west of Fort Worth, Weatherford College provides a CAPTE-accredited PTA program. The curriculum focuses on developing the skills necessary for effective patient care. Learn more at the Weatherford College PTA Program page.
3. Collin College
   • Located in McKinney, about 50 miles northeast of Fort Worth, Collin College offers a PTA program that prepares students for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). For more information, visit the Collin College PTA Program page.

PTA Employment Opportunities in Fort Worth

Fort Worth is home to numerous healthcare facilities where PTAs can find employment. Here are some major employers:

• Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth
  • Located in the Medical District, this hospital is part of the Texas Health Resources system and offers a range of employment opportunities for PTAs. Visit their careers page for more information.
• Cook Children’s Medical Center
  • Situated in the Cultural District, Cook Children’s is a leading pediatric healthcare provider. They offer various roles for PTAs in their rehabilitation services. Check out their employment opportunities.
• Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center
  • Found in the Near Southside neighborhood, this facility is part of the Baylor Scott & White Health system, providing comprehensive healthcare services. Explore their careers page for current openings.

Prerequisites for PTA Programs

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

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum GPA of 2.5.
• Completion of prerequisite courses such as Anatomy and Physiology.
• Observation hours in a physical therapy setting.
• Attendance at an information session.
• Passing scores on entrance exams like the HESI A2 or TEAS.

PTA Licensure Requirements in Texas

In Texas, PTAs must be licensed to practice. The requirements include:

• Graduation from a CAPTE-accredited program.
• Passing the NPTE for PTAs.
• Applying for licensure through the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners.

Licensure Reciprocity

Texas offers licensure reciprocity for PTAs from other states, provided they meet Texas’s licensure requirements. This can be beneficial for PTAs moving to Texas from other states.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Physical Therapy Assistant in Fort Worth, Texas, is a fulfilling journey. With the right education and training, you can make a significant impact on patients’ lives. Reach out to 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 Physical Therapist Assistants, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page.