Physical Therapist Assistant: The Perfect Next Step for Kinesiology Graduates

Physical Therapist Assistant: The Perfect Next Step for Kinesiology Graduates
Stanbridge Physical Therapist Assistant students practice real-world rehabilitation techniques.

For graduates with a background in kinesiology or an interest in movement science, pursuing a career as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is a practical and rewarding option. PTAs play an essential role in healthcare, helping patients recover from injuries, improve mobility, and manage chronic conditions under the guidance of licensed physical therapists. The career path combines scientific knowledge with hands-on care to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. 

As healthcare needs continue to grow, so does the demand for PTAs. According to the California Employment Development Department, the profession is projected to increase by 36.9% from 2020-2030¹ – faster than the average for all occupations. The surge in demand is largely due to an aging population and increased focus on injury rehabilitation and chronic condition management. 

Why Kinesiology and PTA Align 

Kinesiology is the scientific study of human movement, encompassing anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and the psychology of physical activity. A strong foundation directly complements the PTA profession, where these principles are applied daily to help patients recover from injuries or illnesses, improve mobility, and enhance their quality of life. 

Here’s why becoming a PTA is the perfect next step for kinesiology graduates: 

Shared Core Knowledge 

  • Understanding of Movement Mechanics: PTAs design patient-specific exercise programs using kinesiology principles, such as biomechanics. 
  • Focus on Physical Conditioning: Techniques learned in kinesiology courses apply to rehabilitation therapies. 

Hands-On Skills 

  • Practical Techniques: From manual therapy to exercise prescription, kinesiology studies provide experience that mirrors many PTA responsibilities. 
  • Applied Anatomy and Physiology: This knowledge is critical for assessing injuries and guiding patients in safe, effective recovery plans. 

Holistic Patient Care 

  • Psychology of Exercise: A kinesiology background helps PTAs address patients’ emotional and mental health during their recovery journey. 
  • Nutrition and Wellness Insight: These components enhance rehabilitation outcomes, giving PTAs a well-rounded approach to care. 

Career Longevity and Versatility 

  • PTAs are needed in hospitals, sports medicine clinics, outpatient facilities, and long-term care centers. Career variety allows kinesiology graduates to find a setting that aligns with their passions. 
Physical Therapist Assistant: The Perfect Next Step for Kinesiology Graduates
Hands-on training: Students enhance their skills with dynamic exercises

Why Choose Stanbridge University for Your PTA Journey? 

Stanbridge University’s Physical Therapist Assistant program stands out in Southern California with its comprehensive approach to education. Our PTA students benefit from the following: 

  • On-Campus Therapy Skill Labs: Gain hands-on experience in real-world settings. 
  • Virtual Reality Lab: Simulate rehabilitation scenarios to enhance clinical reasoning. 
  • Synthetic Cadaver Lab: Explore human anatomy in unparalleled detail. 
  • High NPTE Pass Rates: Our Orange County campus achieved a 99% pass rate on the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTA licensure from 2019 to 2023². 
  • Comprehensive Student Support Services: Benefit from a range of support services designed to assist you throughout your educational journey. 
  • Accredited Program: The PTA program at Stanbridge University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). 
  • Experienced Faculty Mentorship: Benefit from guidance and support provided by full-time faculty members who lead mentorship groups, offering personalized assistance throughout the program.    

Ready to Take the Next Step? 

With your kinesiology background, a career as a Physical Therapist Assistant offers the opportunity to turn your knowledge into action and make a tangible impact on others’ lives. Explore Stanbridge University’s Physical Therapist Assistant program in Orange County and Los Angeles to begin your journey today. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is a Physical Therapist Assistant career a strong next step for kinesiology graduates?

A kinesiology background provides a solid foundation for PTA training because both fields focus on human movement, anatomy, biomechanics, and exercise science. Kinesiology graduates often transition smoothly into PTA coursework, where they apply movement principles to rehabilitation, mobility training, and patient care. 

What does a Physical Therapist Assistant do?

A Physical Therapist Assistant supports patient rehabilitation under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. PTAs help patients improve mobility, manage pain, regain function after injury or illness, and perform therapeutic exercises as part of personalized treatment plans.3 

What is the job outlook for Physical Therapist Assistants?

According to the California Employment Development Department, PTA employment is projected to grow 36.9% from 2020 to 2030, driven by increasing rehabilitation needs and demand for therapy services.¹ This growth makes PTA a stable and in-demand career path for kinesiology graduates. 

How does kinesiology coursework help students succeed in a PTA program?

Kinesiology studies prepare students with knowledge in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and exercise prescription, which are essential to PTA practice. These skills support clinical reasoning, injury assessment, patient motivation, and the development of safe and effective rehabilitation plans. 

Why choose Stanbridge University for PTA education?

Stanbridge University offers hands-on training in therapy skills labs, a Virtual Reality Lab, and a Synthetic Cadaver Lab. The program is accredited by CAPTE and supported by experienced faculty mentors. From 2019 to 2023, the Orange County campus reported a 99% NPTE first-time pass rate for PTA licensure.² 

Where can students enroll in Stanbridge University’s PTA program? 

Stanbridge University offers the Physical Therapist Assistant program at its Orange County and Los Angeles campuses. Both locations provide access to immersive labs, clinical preparation, and student support services designed to help graduates pursue licensure and begin their PTA careers.

Footnotes

1Source: Employment Development Department, State of California, Occupation Profile, Physical Therapist Assistants, https://labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/cgi/databrowsing/occExplorerQSDetails.asp?searchCriteria=physical+therapist+assistant&careerID=&menuChoice=occexplorer&geogArea=0601000000&soccode=312021&search=Explore+Occupation. As viewed on August 1, 2024.  

²Source: NPTE for PTA Ultimate and First Time Pass Rate for graduates, 2018/2019 – 2022/2023, Orange County and Los Angeles campuses; The Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy; Basic Pass Rate Report. As viewed on March 5, 2024. 

3Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physical-therapist-assistants-and-aides.htm  As viewed on December 5, 2023.