Kinesiology BS to PTA?

[martinezalex95]

Is it possible to become a PTA without going through an associate's program? I've read in some threads that it is possible to do so in some states, I'm in CA. It seems that I would have all the pre-reqs and required courses offered in most PTA programs. I also have over 18 months of experience working as an aide in different setting. Has anyone done this? Or know what my options are? Thank you.

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[Azimuthal]

No.

If you have a year to spare in CA:

http://m.gurnick.edu/programs/physical-therapist-assistant-program#program-length-and-schedule

Drawback is that it is a private for-profit institution.

 

[starrsgirl]

I've never heard of anywhere that you can become a PTA without a PTA program. However, I know it's common to waive certain courses in their PTA program. So, for instance, your classmates might be taking 6 classes, but you only have to take 4 since you already completed some courses prior to starting the program (ex. English 101 or math or college anatomy). I asked a PTA about it and she said you can't speed it up though, even if you are coming in with a bunch of classes. There are program specific courses that must be taken from the school in order each semester.

 

[NewTestament]

Either way, you'll make more and find more jobs as a PTA than as kinesiologist.

 

[martinezalex95]

No.

If you have a year to spare in CA:

http://m.gurnick.edu/programs/physical-therapist-assistant-program#program-length-and-schedule

Drawback is that it is a private for-profit institution.

Seems like the typical length for a PTA program in CA. It's disappointing to realize that the health and educational systems are ultimately a business. And that is the bottom line in all of their policies. The training required for most PTAs programs seems, not to take credit from any PTAs out there who practice a wonderful and self-gratifying profession, to be attainable from mere experience in a clinical setting. Of course, one must add the prerequisite courses and the board exams, and you could have an individual ready to perform PTA duties.
Thanks for your answer.

 

[Azimuthal]

Seems like the typical length for a PTA program in CA. It's disappointing to realize that the health and educational systems are ultimately a business. And that is the bottom line in all of their policies. The training required for most PTAs programs seems, not to take credit from any PTAs out there who practice a wonderful and self-gratifying profession, to be attainable from mere experience in a clinical setting. Of course, one must add the prerequisite courses and the board exams, and you could have an individual ready to perform PTA duties.
Thanks for your answer.

I would disagree, but I would have to observe your manual skills in different settings, from facilitation to MT. The program I linked is only 1 year versus 2. Regardless, your earning potential is significantly more as a PTA. Just do it.