1. Williston State College Physical Therapist Assistant Program By Robert Benson

2. Physical Therapist Assistant One of the fastest growing medical professions Predicted further growth with the “Baby Boom” generation aging

3. What is a PTA? Assists the Physical Therapist in the practice of applying various physical treatments to help restore function. This would include using exercise, massage, heat, cold, electricity, water and assistive devices.

4. Background Information Program began in August 1992 1st class graduated in May 1995 1st program within a 5 state region - ND, MT, SD, WY, CO Maximum of 16 students taken each year 2 1/2 year program

5. WSC Program 2 ½ Year Associate in applied Science program

6. Educational Requirements 1st year - Prerequisite courses –A&P, Chemistry, Physics, English, Speech, Math, Psychology, First Aid, Computer, Intro to PT Apply for admission - March 2nd year - Program courses –Kinesiology, Treatment Issues, Pathology, Therapeutic Exercise, Modalities, Neurological Rehab, Assessment, Adv Techniques,and Adv Exercises Summer - two eight-week affiliations

7. Licensure Exam taken after fieldwork is completed Computerized –150 questions –multiple choice –3 hours Most States (48) require licensure

8. Employment Settings Hospital Private office Extended care facility / Nursing home Rehabilitation center Home health agency School system Academic institutions

9. Earnings Vary across the country $20,000 - $30,000 per year starting $10 - $15 per hour

10. Hazards Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Spine injuries Exposure to Disease Need proper warm up and to watch body mechanics

11. Combining PTA and MT 2 1/2 years of PTA program courses 1 year MT program courses

12. Contact Information Robert Benson Williston State College PO Box 1326 Williston, ND 58801-1326 701-774-4291 robert.benson@wsc.nodak.edu