Physical Therapy Aide Career Diploma

Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

As a student of Ashworth College's Physical Therapy Aide Career Diploma program, you will have the opportunity to study various physical therapy techniques, medical topics, and other factors impacting this profession. Techniques are taught for patients suffering from neurological disorders, cardiopulmonary diseases, or musculoskeletal injuries or disorders. Physical therapy for children and elderly patients is also addressed. Other topics covered in the program include patient safety principles, medical terminology, records keeping, patient transfer methods, and working with patients in wheelchairs or those dependent on other assistive equipment. In addition to time management and career guides, Ashworth College provides students with required lesson books, study guides, and online support.

What Are the Prerequisites?

There are no educational or professional prerequisites for entering Ashworth College's Physical Therapy Aide Career Diploma program. Applicants to Ashworth College's programs should be 17 years of age or older.

What Are the Course Requirements?

The curriculum of Ashworth College's Physical Therapy Aide Career Diploma program consists of eight comprehensive online lessons that include reading assignments, practice exercises, and an online exam. Each lesson is accompanied by a preview, instructor's note, and vocabulary guide. This program is designed to be completed in less than six months.

Physical Therapy Aide Course Requirements

Lesson Number	Lesson Name
1	The Profession of Physical Therapy and Career Opportunities for the Aide
2	Ethical and Legal Issues in Medicine and Communicating Effectively
3	Medical Records and Terminology
4	Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy
5	Neurological, Cardiopulmonary, Pediatric, Geriatric and Integumentary Physical Therapy
6	Safety and Preparation for Patient Care
7	Patient Positioning, Body Mechanics, and Transfer Techniques
8	Wheelchairs, Assistive Devices and Gait

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities

Completion of Ashworth College's Physical Therapy Aide Career Diploma program could prepare you for entry-level positions in a variety of medical environments. You could work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, or home health agencies. You would be supervised by a licensed or certified physical therapist.

Advanced Degrees

Although some graduates of Ashworth College's Physical Therapy Aide Career Diploma program could begin working in this field, many states require aides or assistants to hold an associate's degree. If you are required or have an interest in pursuing a 2-year degree, you could seek an Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapy Assistant. Many states also require physical therapy aides to pass a licensing or certification exam.