look into grad schools first to see what pre requisites you wuold need. most PT programs require biology, anatomy and physiology, sociology, physics, and statistics. you would need a four year degree first, either in a subject like biology or kinesiology/exercise science. then you would apply to the PT school assuming you have all of your requirements and volunteer (clinical observation) hours. It’s very tough but well worth it. Physical therapists are not the same as assistants. The assistants only need a two year degree at most. They are under the supervision of the PTs. Check out some schools for their PT programs. Most are converting to the DPT (Doctor of Physical Therapy) degree which is usually three years of grad school. But there are some still out there that have the 2 year masters degree.

“Pre physical therapy assistant” programs are nothing in particular. They are not regulated, accredited, or endorsed by the APTA or CAPTE. Entrance into a PTA program usually just requires a high school education; however, if you did not receive physics in high school or other required courses, the “pre-PTA” program would help you to bridge to the PTA degree. However, be careful because not all community colleges will accept transcripts from a tech school. Also beware of “PT tech” programs. Tech schools are taking advantage of students, telling them that the “tech” certification is a good way to get into the PTA program; however, most students who have completed a high school education will qualify for application into a PTA program. The PT “tech” certification is not required to become a PT “tech” which is a $9-10 an hour job and is completely different than the PTA degree.