Physical Therapy Assistant Programs in Irving, Texas

Becoming a Physical Therapy Assistant in Irving, Texas

If you’re considering a career as a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) in Irving, Texas, you’re on the path to joining a rewarding and growing field in healthcare. PTAs work under the direction of physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries, improve mobility, and manage pain. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a PTA, including education paths, local programs, and licensure requirements.

About Irving

Irving, Texas, is a bustling city located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Known for its rich cultural diversity and thriving business community, Irving offers a unique blend of urban amenities and suburban comfort. The city is home to several landmarks, including the Mustangs of Las Colinas and the Irving Arts Center. For more information about the city, visit the official Irving website.

PTA Training Programs in Irving, Texas

While Irving itself may not have a large number of PTA programs, nearby cities offer excellent options for aspiring PTAs. Here are some local schools offering PTA programs:

  1. Tarrant County College – Located in Fort Worth, approximately 20 miles from Irving, Tarrant County College offers a comprehensive PTA program that prepares students for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). Visit their PTA program page.

  2. Dallas College – Brookhaven Campus – Situated in Farmers Branch, just a short drive from Irving, Dallas College provides a robust PTA program with hands-on training and clinical experiences. Explore their PTA program.

  3. Weatherford College – Located about 50 miles west of Irving, Weatherford College offers a well-regarded PTA program that emphasizes both academic and practical skills necessary for success in the field. Learn more about their program.

PTA Employment Opportunities in Irving

Irving hosts several healthcare facilities and clinics where PTAs can find employment. Here are a few major employers:

  1. Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Irving – A full-service hospital located in the Las Colinas neighborhood, offering a range of healthcare services and employment opportunities for PTAs. Check their careers page.

  2. Texas Health Family Care – With locations throughout Irving, Texas Health Family Care provides comprehensive healthcare services, including physical therapy. Visit their employment page.

  3. Select Physical Therapy – Located in the heart of Irving, Select Physical Therapy offers specialized rehabilitation services and frequently hires PTAs. Explore job opportunities.

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 anatomy and physiology.
  • Minimum age requirement, usually 18 years old.
  • Passing scores on entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
  • Background checks and proof of immunizations.

PTA Licensure Requirements in Texas

In Texas, PTAs must be licensed to practice. The Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners oversees the licensure process. Requirements include:

Licensure Reciprocity

Texas offers licensure reciprocity for PTAs licensed in other states, provided they meet Texas’s requirements and pass the jurisprudence exam. 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 Irving, Texas, can be both fulfilling and impactful. With the right education and licensure, you’ll be well-equipped to help patients improve their quality of life. 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.