Explore This Path

Physical Therapy Assistant

💰 Earn $76K-$96K

📚 Associate Degree

⏱️ 12–24 Month Training

📈 22% Job Growth

Help patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life through therapy.
Support physical therapists in crafting and executing effective treatment plans.
Engage in a hands-on role that combines healthcare and personal interaction.

What Physical Therapy Assistants DoAssist physical therapists in providing physical therapy treatments and procedures. May, in accordance with state laws, assist in the development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, document the progress of treatment, and modify specific treatments in accordance with patient status and within the scope of treatment plans established by a physical therapist. Generally requires formal training.

Instruct, motivate, safeguard, and assist patients as they practice exercises or functional activities.
Document patient information, such as notes on their progress.
Observe patients during treatments to compile and evaluate data on their responses and progress and provide results to physical therapist in person or through progress notes.
Instruct patients in proper body mechanics and in ways to improve functional mobility, such as aquatic exercise.
Secure patients into or onto therapy equipment.

Physical Therapy Assistants Education, Salary, and Growth

Minimum EducationAssociate Degree

Career ProspectsExcellent (Increasing by 5% or more)

Training Time1 to 2 years

Job Openings19,800 Annually

Median Earnings

$79,410 in California

$65,510 Nationally

$25K

$50K

$75K

$100K

$125K

$150K

$175K

$200K

$225K

$250K

Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.

Real Talk Reel

We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.

@janaejasmine

@ranasamone

Is This Career Right For You?

YOU Like

Relating with or serving others
Thinking and problem solving
Working with my hands

you value

Having support
Job security
Personal relationships

you are skilled in

Speaking
Critical Thinking
Active Listening
Judgment and Decision Making
Service Orientation
Coordination

Go Deeper: Physical Therapy Assistants Explained

Physical Therapy AssistantExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years

Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years

Fellowship or Service ProgramA fellowship or service program typically provides individuals with opportunities to engage in meaningful community service or social impact work, while encouraging personal growth, developing leadership skills, and creating positive change in society.

🎓 Paid Work

⏱️ Finish in 1-3 years

Technology BootcampA technology bootcamp typically offers intensive training in specific tech skills, preparing participants for entry-level roles in the tech industry in a relatively short period of time.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in Less than a year

ApprenticeshipAn apprenticeship typically offers a combination of hands-on training and classroom instruction, leading to practical skills, industry-specific knowledge, and the potential for long-term employment in a specific trade or profession.

🎓 Paid Work

⏱️ Finish in 2-5 years

find training near you

Find local programs, apprenticeships, or degrees to start your path.

Location

Enter your location to see training near you

What Is the Healthcare Industry?