Physical Therapy Assistant Programs in Houston, Texas

Becoming a Physical Therapy Assistant in Houston, Texas

If you’re considering a career as a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) in Houston, Texas, you’re embarking on a rewarding path in the healthcare field. PTAs play a crucial role in helping patients recover from injuries and improve their mobility. This guide will walk you through the steps to become a PTA, including education paths, certification, and training options available in Houston.

About Houston

Houston, Texas, is a bustling metropolis known for its diverse culture, thriving arts scene, and significant contributions to space exploration and energy industries. As the fourth-largest city in the United States, Houston offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals. For more information about the city, visit the official Houston website. Key neighborhoods like the Texas Medical Center, Midtown, and the Museum District are central to the city’s healthcare and educational landscape.

PTA Training Programs in Houston, Texas

Houston is home to several accredited programs that can help you become a Physical Therapy Assistant. Here are three local schools offering PTA programs:

1. Wharton County Junior College
   Located just outside Houston, Wharton County Junior College offers a comprehensive PTA program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). The program emphasizes hands-on training and prepares students for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). Learn more about their program.

2. San Jacinto College
   Situated in the Pasadena area, San Jacinto College provides an Associate of Applied Science degree in Physical Therapist Assistant. The program includes clinical rotations in various healthcare settings to ensure well-rounded training. Explore their PTA program.

3. Lone Star College
   Located in the North Houston area, Lone Star College offers a PTA program that combines classroom instruction with practical experience. The college’s partnerships with local healthcare facilities provide students with valuable clinical exposure. Find out more about their offerings.

PTA Employment Opportunities in Houston

Houston’s healthcare sector is robust, with numerous employment opportunities for PTAs. Here are some major facilities where you might find work:

• Texas Medical Center
  As the largest medical complex in the world, the Texas Medical Center is home to numerous hospitals and clinics. It offers a wide range of employment opportunities for PTAs. Visit their website.

• Houston Methodist Hospital
  Located in the Texas Medical Center, Houston Methodist is renowned for its patient care and research. It frequently seeks qualified PTAs to join its rehabilitation teams. Check their careers page.

• Memorial Hermann Health System
  With multiple locations throughout Houston, Memorial Hermann provides diverse opportunities for PTAs in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Explore job openings.

Prerequisites for PTA Programs

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

• Completion of college-level reading, writing, and math prerequisites or Texas Success Initiative (TSI) requirements.
• A minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher in all courses, including transfer courses.
• Completion of specific prerequisite courses such as Anatomy and Physiology, with minimum grades of “B” or “C”.
• Observation hours under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist or PTA.
• Successful completion of standardized exams like the HESI A2 or ATI-TEAS.

PTA Licensure Requirements in Texas

To practice as a PTA in Texas, you must:

• Graduate from a CAPTE-accredited PTA program.
• Pass the NPTE for PTAs with a score of 600 or higher.
• Obtain a Texas physical therapist assistant license from the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners.

Licensure Reciprocity

Texas participates in licensure reciprocity agreements with several states, allowing PTAs licensed in Texas to practice in other states without additional exams. For specific details, consult the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Physical Therapy Assistant in Houston is a fulfilling choice. With a variety of educational programs and employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to start your journey. 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.