Licensed physical therapist assistants are educated health care providers that work under the direction and supervision of a licensed professional physical therapist and assist in the provision of physical therapy interventions. The physical therapist assistant helps manage conditions such as sprains/strains, fractures, back and neck injuries, sports and work related injuries, and others. Components of therapies performed involve exercise, massage, electrical stimulation, hot and cold packs, traction, and ultrasound. Physical therapist assistants are in constant demand both locally and nationally.

A pioneer in the field, Miami Dade College was the first of two schools that graduated the nation’s first Physical Therapist Assistants. Today, we are a leader in the education of PTAs – the continuation of a proud legacy we began in 1967. The Medical Campus Physical Therapist Assistant Program is a two-year course of study requiring 74 credits for an Associate in Science degree. Before entry into the Physical Therapist Assistant program, students must also complete a series of general education and science courses at Miami Dade College. Completion of these courses does not guarantee admission to the program.

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program provides learning experiences that enable the student to acquire and assimilate the necessary technical competencies to function effectively as a supportive health care provider in the physical therapy profession. In keeping with its mission and goals, and in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Medical Campus promotes an environment of respect and support for persons with disabilities and will make reasonable accommodations. Please see the ADA Standards listed for this program.

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program is highly demanding, and students are therefore more successful if they do not work while in the program. If students must work for financial support, the program strongly recommends a limit of 20 hours of employment per week. Students should also consider family responsibilities before committing to a full-time accelerated program.

To facilitate the clinical portion of the program, students are assigned to a clinical facility within Miami Dade County. Students are responsible for their own transportation to the campus and to various agencies in the community to which they are assigned for clinical experiences. Students participating in the clinical portion of the program are required to complete the Miami Dade College Student Health Record and criminal background check.

Program Location

This program is offered only at the Medical Campus located at 950 NW 20 Street, Miami, Fl 33127 and clinical sites throughout Miami-Dade County.

Important Phone Numbers