Learn more about the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Stanbridge University, including general information about PTA education and training.
Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) can work with patients across the lifespan, from children developing movement skills to older adults recovering from surgery, injury, or changes in mobility. Depending on the setting, PTAs may help people with orthopedic injuries, neurological conditions, sports injuries, chronic health conditions, or age-related mobility challenges. PTAs work under the direction and […]
Occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) and physical therapist assistants (PTAs) both work in rehabilitation, but they help patients reach different types of goals. OTAs generally help people develop or regain the skills needed to participate in meaningful daily activities, while PTAs focus more directly on movement, mobility, strength, and physical function. In California, both careers typically require accredited education, a national examination, and state […]
If you’re comparing Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) programs in California, start with CAPTE accreditation, then look at NPTE pass rates, clinical education, curriculum, program length, schedule, costs, and student support. Because each program is structured differently, reviewing the same factors across your options can help you find a PTA program that aligns with your educational goals, learning […]
Basic Overview Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) help patients of all ages improve movement, reduce pain, and regain function under the direction and supervision of licensed physical therapists. Depending on where they work, PTAs may treat children with developmental conditions, athletes recovering from injuries, adults recovering after surgery, older adults working to maintain independence, or patients rebuilding mobility after neurological conditions […]
Basic Overview Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) play an important role in helping patients improve mobility, recover from injuries, and regain independence. In California, PTAs work in a variety of healthcare settings and are part of a growing healthcare profession. If you enjoy working directly with patients, rehabilitation, and movement science, becoming a physical therapist assistant may be a career worth […]
Basic Overview Occupational therapy and physical therapy both help people improve their health, independence, and quality of life, but they focus on different aspects of recovery. Occupational therapists help individuals participate in daily activities, while Physical therapists focus on improving movement, strength, balance, and mobility. Understanding these differences can help you determine which healthcare career aligns with your interests and goals. Understanding Occupational […]
Basic Overview Rehabilitation therapy helps people improve function, mobility, independence, and quality of life after illness, injury, surgery, or other health conditions. Occupational therapy and physical therapy are two common rehabilitation professions, each with a different focus but a shared goal of helping patients achieve meaningful recovery and participation in everyday life. Understanding Rehabilitation Therapy Healthcare […]
Basic Overview Healthcare careers can be rewarding if you enjoy helping others, solving problems, working as part of a team, and continuing to learn throughout your career. While no single personality is “perfect” for healthcare, understanding your interests, strengths, preferred work environment, and long-term goals can help you determine whether a healthcare career is the right fit. Is […]
Basic Overview If you enjoy working with children, there are many healthcare careers that provide opportunities to support pediatric patients and their families. Professionals such as Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants, Physical Therapist Assistants, Licensed Vocational Nurses, and Registered Nurses may work with infants, children, and adolescents in hospitals, schools, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation facilities, and […]
Basic Overview Clinical education allows healthcare students to apply classroom learning in supervised healthcare settings. Through clinical experiences, fieldwork, and simulation-based learning, students develop practical skills, strengthen clinical reasoning, and gain experience working with patients and healthcare teams before entering professional practice. Understanding Clinical Education Students researching healthcare careers often learn through classroom instruction, laboratory experiences, simulations, […]