Physical Therapist Assistant

Welcome

Thank you for your interest in the Physical Therapist Assistant program. If you would like information beyond what is on the website, please complete our interest form.

Important Note Regarding the PTA Program

The CCC PTA program will resume instruction in the fall 2023 semester. The application deadline is May 31, 2023. For more information, contact Dr. Christopher Flieg, christopher.flieg@colbycc.edu. 

Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapist assistants is projected to grow 24 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average. Demand for physical therapy is expected to increase in response to the healthcare needs of an older population and individuals with chronic conditions.

Program Summary

A physical therapist assistant (PTA) is required to work under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist. The PTA may perform physical therapy procedures and related tasks that have been selected and delegated by the supervising physical therapist. Where permitted by law, a PTA my also carry out routine operational functions, including supervision of the physical therapy tech or PTA student, and documentation of treatment progress. The PTA is certified to practice in the state of choice upon completion of the licensure board exam.

The Colby Community College PTA program is planned in accordance with the established standards of the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). 

The curriculum is arranged in a "1 + 1" format and is designed to be completed in four semesters and a summer. The freshman year (pre-PTA) is open to all students and consists of core courses. Satisfactory completion of these courses is a prerequisite to being accepted to the program. Admission to the program is limited and an interview process occurs prior to the second year.

The second year is devoted entirely to professional courses and consists of lecture and laboratory sessions on campus, and supervised clinical experiences in health care facilities in Kansas and other states. After completion of the fourth semester, an additional ten weeks of supervised clinical experience is required.

Financial Fact Sheet (PDF).

Student Outcomes

Per Class

Two-Year Program Outcomes

Licensure

Upon satisfactory completion of the program, the student receives an Associate of Applied Science degree and qualifies to take state licensure examinations. The student is responsible for all applications and cost related to licensure in the state of choice.  

Complaints from Outside Sources

Should an outside entity (not a student or faculty member) wish to lodge a complaint against the CCC PTA program, the following procedure will be followed. All outside entity complaints should attempt to resolve the concern before starting the formal written process. A visit with the Vice President of Academic Affairs will often resolve the matter.  Every effort will be made to solve the complaint in an expeditious manner.

1. The outside entity submits a signed, written complaint to the Vice President of Academic Affairs.
2. The Vice President of Academic Affairs will review the complaint and respond to the entity concerning the steps to be taken in responding to the complaint. The investigation may involve other parties connected with the complaint. The nature of the complaint will dictate the extent of involvement of outside parties and the length of time needed to respond to the complaint.
3. The complainant will be notified in writing of the action taken by Colby Community College in response to the complaint.

Faculty

Colby Community College is recognized for having dedicated and qualified PTA faculty. For more information, contact: