Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Requirements

The PTA Program is selective and candidates for admission are ranked according to an objective admission formula that ensures fairness and equitability. Interviews are conducted by a panel.

Program Director, PTA – Kat Fabros

The admission formula includes points for:

• Admissions assessment scores as assessed by SLE (Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam)
• Prior post-secondary education if any
• GPA
• Personal interview with PTA Admissions Panel which includes points for:
  • • communication motivation · commitment
    • knowledge of the profession writing sample

Twenty-six (26) students are admitted to the program each cohort, with seats offered to the applicants with the highest scores. Two qualified alternates are identified and offered a seat if it becomes available in the first week. If a seat does not become available, the first and second alternates will be guaranteed a seat in the next cohort if they wish to enter the program at that time. In the case of a tie score, the applicant with the earliest date of submission of a completed portfolio will be offered the seat.

1. PTA Program applicants must submit a portfolio by a specified date. The contents of the portfolio must include:
   1. Two (2) letters of recommendation from persons unrelated to the applicant.
   2. Two (2) signed and sealed Prospective Student Observation Forms which together demonstrate forty-eight (48) hours of observation. The student must demonstrate having observed two different types of clinical settings (e.g., one acute care hospital and one outpatient clinic, or one neurologic rehab center and one children’s health center, etc.).
   3. Signed Essential Functions form.
   4. Copies of transcripts from high school and any post-secondary educational experiences
   5. Admissions Essay: The admissions essay is an important factor in the admissions process, as it is your opportunity to set yourself apart from other applicants and show the college, admissions advisors, and program directors what you are truly passionate about.The admissions essay must be typed, in APA format, and between 250 and 650 words, using the topic below to inspire and structure your response.Essay Topic:
      Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the program and career field to which you are applying for. How would that program support your goals and interests?

2. Applicants who have submitted a completed portfolio are then scheduled for a personal interview with the PTA Admissions Panel. Interviews will be held on a date to be announced.
3. Final selection of applicants and alternates is made following the interviews.
4. Mandatory orientation meetings are held on campus for all accepted PTA Program students (including alternates) on Monday and Tuesday approximately 1-2 weeks before the scheduled start of the Program. At this time, students will receive and review the PTA Student Handbook, sign New Student Forms in preparation for the first day of class, and receive CPR and other Students who do not attend the entire orientation will lose his or her seat to the next alternate.