Physical Therapist Assistant

Now accepting applications for fall 2025! Apply early, rolling admissions

About our program

Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) work under the supervision of:

Physical Therapists utilizing therapeutic exercise
Functional training
Adaptive devices (including prosthetics)
Physical agents (water, electricity, sound, light, heat and cold) to restore, maintain, and promote optimal physical function.

Want to Learn more about becoming a PTA?

Mission

Green River College's (GRC's) Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program is committed to preparing students with the competence, critical thinking and discernment for successful employment as PTAs The PTA program provides comprehensive, accessible, quality, learning‐ centered and patient‐centered education.

The program is dedicated to empowering program graduates to provide quality patient care under the supervision of physical therapists with diverse populations in a variety of health care settings. Graduates will be prepared to practice in legal, ethical, safe, accountable, and effective manners and be able to adapt and respond appropriately within the ever‐changing environment of health care.

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Green River College awards an Associate in Applied Science degree and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education. The program prepares graduates for immediate employment. Studies in the program include anatomy and physiology, technical physical therapy courses and practical clinical experiences in area health care facilities.

All of Green River's PTA program graduates who have sought employment in physical therapy have been employed. Many students have obtained jobs prior to graduation.

Program Opportunities

Receive hands-on clinical experience in a variety of settings
Develop an ongoing collaborative relationship with faculty and fellow students
Enhance your personal leadership and group interaction skills
Become skilled in an exciting and rewarding health care occupation
Receive an Associate in Applied Science degree for Physical Therapist Assistant that is accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association

Career Opportunities

PTAs are employed in a wide variety of settings including hospitals and rehabilitation facilities; outpatient clinics and offices; skilled nursing, extended care or convalescent facilities; home health agencies; hospices; schools and other pediatric facilities; sports therapy clinics and athletic facilities.
The demand for physical therapist assistants is strong in the Puget Sound area and nationwide.
All of Green River's PTA program graduates who have sought employment in physical therapy have been employed.
On average, 90% to 100% of program graduates are consistently employed within 6 months of passing the licensure examination.
Many students have job offers prior to graduation