Is PTA school worth it? - Advice needed

[OThopeful87]

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Hi,

I'm really torn right now. Being an OT feels like it would be the perfect job for me. I was really excited and began researching Master's programs to apply to by next year after I get my Bachelor's. However, the more I researched I began to realize that not only are the programs really competitive and small (I worry that I'll be waitlisted or rejected and the process will take years) but also, you are expected to go to school full time for 2-3 years during the day. I WISH that I would be able to do this. Truth is, after I get my Bachelor's, I NEED to start working to support myself (most likely I will have to get a job during the day).

I know that there are options of being an OTA instead as well as a PTA (which is different but still something that I would enjoy). My question is, are these programs worth it? Meaning, does anyone know what the job outlook is in those fields? I keep reading stuff about cuts in the medical field and PTA's being the first to get cut. What is the salary for both? Are PTA's more in demand than OTA's? I'm not trying to become rich, I just want to live comfortably and enjoy my job.

Should I just try to find a job with my Bachelor's degree and forget about my dreams of OT and PT altogether?

 

[lovepixie]

Hi

I can just tell you what I know. Most OT programs do not require a bachelors just prerequisites for the program. So that may be something u want to look into. I also work with a PTA who has a degree in biology. After school she couldn't find a job so she went on to be a PTA. There are always job openings for PTAs because most clinics do not want to pay for a staff full of PTs. PTAs can start between 40-50k a year which isn't bad for two years. The PTA programs however are very competitive just like the PT programs. I actually know a PTA who is a regional director so your options are endless. Hoped this helped 🙂.

 

[OThopeful87]

Thanks!

 

[Codered0327]

Hey!
Good topic and just my two cents worth. I've decided to pursue PTA because of the above reasons and potential salary opportunities. Seems like the years to salary ratio are in favor of PTA.