Physical Therapist Assistant AAS

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

Student Learning Goals and Outcomes

1. Graduates will demonstrate competent entry-level PT interventions, working under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist.

   1. Within the context of patient care, distinguish between the role of the physical therapist and the role of the physical therapist assistant. Demonstrated by examinations, practicals and clinical rotations.

   2. Under the direction of a physical therapist, implement safe and effective physical therapy interventions based on the PT plan of care. Demonstrated through practical exams and clinical rotations.

   3. Under the direction of a physical therapist, perform entry-level interventions following standards of ethical practice. Demonstrated during clinical experiences.

2. Graduates will show respect for diverse human life and advocate for physical therapy care that works to restore optimal human dignity and function.

   1. Effectively communicate with other health care providers, patients, and families about selected treatment procedures and functional activities. Demonstrated in the didactic and clinical components of the program.

   2. Provide and document patient/client care in a respectful and culturally sensitive manner to all individuals. Demonstrated in lab scenarios and clinical experiences.

   3. Exhibit good moral and ethical judgment in health care practice and uphold confidentiality of all persons at all times. Demonstrated in lab scenarios and clinical experiences.

3. Graduates will be lifelong learners and continually pursue developmental opportunities within the physical therapy profession.

   1. Provide education to peers, patients/clients, and others through professional organization, employment, and other avenues of collaboration.

Program Goals and Outcomes

1. The program will deliver competent physical therapist assistants to serve the regional communities.

   1. The graduation rate for each class will be 85% higher.

   2. Eighty-five percent of the PTA graduates will pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) overall, average over two years.

   3. Of those who seek employment, 95% of graduates will be employed within one year of passing the NPTW, averaged over two years.

   4. Eighty-five percent of the PTA graduates will receive an above average rating on employer surveys.

Faculty Goals and Outcomes

1. Maintain a contemporary and comprehensive curriculum in accordance with CAPTE standards and the ICPTAE Mission.

   1. Core faculty will engage in a minimum of two appropriate professional development activities annually.

   2. Core faculty will engage in annual curriculum review and document improvements or changes.

   3. Adjunct faculty will engage in a minimum of one appropriate professional development activity annually.

In addition to the program outcomes, students will meet the following North Idaho College General Education (GEM) Requirements:  Written and Oral Communication; Mathematical Ways of Knowing; Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing; and an additional program-designated or selected course from any of the GEM requirements.