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Physical Therapist Assistant - Military Bridge

Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
74 credits
Delivery Method: Online

This program requires a general college application and a program-specific application.

See below for application steps and important dates.

Why Study Physical Therapist Assistant - Military Bridge at LSC?

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program provides an opportunity to become an educated health care provider who delivers physical therapy services under the supervision of a physical therapist. The PTA is able to observe and assess the patient’s condition, teach exercises and activities of daily living, use specialized equipment, demonstrate professional skills while implementing treatment procedures, observe the patient’s response to treatment, and document. Physical therapy practitioners minimize physical disability, movement dysfunction, and pain. Physical therapist assistants may find opportunity to work in a variety of settings.

Lake Superior College offers a 20-credit, fully online AAS degree completion program for military-trained therapy personnel. The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) AAS degree is a requirement for licensure or registration as a PTA in most U.S. states.

Please note: The Physical Therapist Assistant–Military Bridge AAS Degree program currently has no waiting list. Students may take general education courses required for the program prior to formal program acceptance, but PTA-specific courses can only be taken for Physical Therapist Assistant–Military Bridge program AAS degree by students who have been formally accepted into the program.

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Career Information

Below you will find the Career Field and Career Cluster that this program is related to. Learn more about if this career area fits your interests!

Health Science Technology

Is Health Science right for you?

Health science workers promote health and wellness. They diagnose and treat injuries and disease. As a physician, dentist, or nurse, you could work directly with patients. You could also work in a laboratory to get information used in research or provide administrative support by keeping medical records.

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$66K

$31/hr

Median annual salary/wage for
Physical Therapist Assistants
in the United States

24%

Projected job growth
in the next decade

112K

Physical Therapist Assistants are currently employed

This data is delivered by an API from CareerOneStop, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. www.careeronestop.org Find more information including data update schedules at CareerOneStop's Data Sources (https://www.careeronestop.org/Help/data-sources.aspx). Full list of datasources.

Job Tasks and Activities for Physical Therapist Assistants

Adjust positions of patients on beds or tables.
Administer active or passive manual therapeutic exercises, therapeutic massage, aquatic physical therapy, or heat, light, sound, or electrical modality treatments, such as ultrasound.
Administer basic health care or medical treatments.
Administer therapy treatments to patients using hands or physical treatment aids.
Administer traction to relieve neck or back pain, using intermittent or static traction equipment.
Assess physical conditions of patients to aid in diagnosis or treatment.
Assist patients to dress, undress, or put on and remove supportive devices, such as braces, splints, or slings.
Assist patients with daily activities.
Attend educational events to update medical knowledge.
Attend or conduct continuing education courses, seminars, or in-service activities.
Clean patient rooms or patient treatment rooms.
Clean work area and check and store equipment after treatment.
Communicate patient status to other health practitioners.
Communicate with or instruct caregivers or family members on patient therapeutic activities or treatment plans.
Confer with other professionals to plan patient care.
Confer with physical therapy staff or others to discuss and evaluate patient information for planning, modifying, or coordinating treatment.
Document client health or progress.
Document patient information, such as notes on their progress.
Encourage patients during therapeutic activities.
Engage patients in exercises or activities.
Fit patients for assistive devices.
Fit patients for orthopedic braces, prostheses, or supportive devices, such as crutches.
Hold patients to ensure proper positioning or safety.
Instruct patients in proper body mechanics and in ways to improve functional mobility, such as aquatic exercise.
Instruct, motivate, safeguard, and assist patients as they practice exercises or functional activities.
Inventory medical supplies or equipment.
Measure patients' range-of-joint motion, body parts, or vital signs to determine effects of treatments or for patient evaluations.
Monitor medical equipment to ensure proper functioning.
Monitor operation of equipment and record use of equipment and administration of treatment.
Monitor patient progress or responses to treatments.
Move patients to or from treatment areas.
Observe patients during treatments to compile and evaluate data on their responses and progress and provide results to physical therapist in person or through progress notes.
Perform clerical duties, such as taking inventory, ordering supplies, answering telephone, taking messages, or filling out forms.
Perform clerical work in medical settings.
Perform postural drainage, percussions, or vibrations or teach deep breathing exercises to treat respiratory conditions.
Perform therapeutic wound care.
Prepare medical instruments or equipment for use.
Prepare medical reports or documents.
Prepare patient treatment areas for use.
Prepare treatment areas and electrotherapy equipment for use by physiotherapists.
Record patient medical histories.
Secure patients into or onto therapy equipment.
Teach medical procedures or medical equipment use to patients.
Teach medical procedures to healthcare personnel.
Train patients in the use of orthopedic braces, prostheses, or supportive devices.
Train patients, family members, or caregivers in techniques for managing disabilities or illnesses.
Transport patients to and from treatment areas, lifting and transferring them according to positioning requirements.

The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.

Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database (www.onetcenter.org/database.html) by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 (creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.

Skills for Physical Therapist Assistants

In order of importance

Active Listening
Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions.
Importance: 75/100
Speaking
Talking to others.
Importance: 69/100
Social Perceptiveness
Understanding people's reactions.
Importance: 69/100
Monitoring
Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements.
Importance: 69/100
Service Orientation
Looking for ways to help people.
Importance: 56/100
Reading Comprehension
Reading work-related information.
Importance: 56/100
Critical Thinking
Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem.
Importance: 56/100
Writing
Writing things for co-workers or customers.
Importance: 56/100
Active Learning
Figuring out how to use new ideas or things.
Importance: 56/100
Coordination
Changing what is done based on other people's actions.
Importance: 53/100
Complex Problem Solving
Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it.
Importance: 53/100
Instructing
Teaching people how to do something.
Importance: 53/100
Judgment and Decision Making
Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one.
Importance: 53/100
Time Management
Managing your time and the time of other people.
Importance: 50/100
Persuasion
Talking people into changing their minds or their behavior.
Importance: 50/100
Learning Strategies
Using the best training or teaching strategies for learning new things.
Importance: 47/100
Systems Evaluation
Measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it.
Importance: 44/100
Systems Analysis
Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it.
Importance: 44/100
Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or display screens to make sure a machine is working.
Importance: 44/100
Management of Personnel Resources
Selecting and managing the best workers for a job.
Importance: 41/100
Quality Control Analysis
Testing how well a product or service works.
Importance: 41/100
Science
Using scientific rules and strategies to solve problems.
Importance: 35/100
Negotiation
Bringing people together to solve differences.
Importance: 31/100
Mathematics
Using math to solve problems.
Importance: 31/100
Operation and Control
Using equipment or systems.
Importance: 28/100
Equipment Selection
Deciding what kind of tools and equipment are needed to do a job.
Importance: 28/100
Troubleshooting
Figuring out what is causing equipment, machines, wiring, or computer programs to not work.
Importance: 28/100
Technology Design
Making equipment and technology useful for customers.
Importance: 22/100
Management of Material Resources
Managing equipment and materials.
Importance: 22/100
Operations Analysis
Figuring out what a product or service needs to be able to do.
Importance: 22/100
Management of Financial Resources
Making spending decisions and keeping track of what is spent.
Importance: 22/100
Programming
Writing computer programs.
Importance: 19/100
Equipment Maintenance
Planning and doing the basic maintenance on equipment.
Importance: 19/100
Repairing
Repairing machines or systems using the right tools.
Importance: 16/100

The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.

Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database (www.onetcenter.org/database.html) by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 (creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.

Knowledge for Physical Therapist Assistants

In order of importance

Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Importance: 88/100
Therapy and Counseling
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Importance: 81/100
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Importance: 80/100
Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Importance: 73/100
Psychology
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Importance: 66/100
Medicine and Dentistry
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Importance: 63/100
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Importance: 61/100
Biology
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Importance: 60/100
Administrative
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Importance: 49/100
Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Importance: 46/100
Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Importance: 40/100
Law and Government
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Importance: 39/100
Sociology and Anthropology
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Importance: 37/100
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Importance: 36/100
Physics
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Importance: 35/100
Personnel and Human Resources
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Importance: 28/100
Chemistry
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Importance: 26/100
Communications and Media
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Importance: 24/100
Economics and Accounting
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Importance: 24/100
Geography
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Importance: 23/100
Sales and Marketing
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Importance: 21/100
Philosophy and Theology
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Importance: 20/100
Foreign Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Importance: 20/100
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Importance: 18/100
Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Importance: 12/100
Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Importance: 9/100
Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Importance: 8/100
Telecommunications
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Importance: 7/100
Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Importance: 7/100
Transportation
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Importance: 5/100
History and Archeology
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Importance: 2/100
Food Production
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
Importance: 2/100
Fine Arts
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Importance: 1/100

The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.

Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database (www.onetcenter.org/database.html) by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 (creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.

Physical Abilities for Physical Therapist Assistants

In order of importance

Oral Expression
Communicating by speaking.
Importance: 78/100
Oral Comprehension
Listening and understanding what people say.
Importance: 75/100
Speech Recognition
Recognizing spoken words.
Importance: 72/100
Speech Clarity
Speaking clearly.
Importance: 72/100
Near Vision
Seeing details up close.
Importance: 69/100
Problem Sensitivity
Noticing when problems happen.
Importance: 69/100
Written Comprehension
Reading and understanding what is written.
Importance: 69/100
Inductive Reasoning
Making general rules or coming up with answers from lots of detailed information.
Importance: 56/100
Selective Attention
Paying attention to something without being distracted.
Importance: 56/100
Deductive Reasoning
Using rules to solve problems.
Importance: 56/100
Written Expression
Communicating by writing.
Importance: 56/100
Information Ordering
Ordering or arranging things.
Importance: 53/100
Arm-Hand Steadiness
Keeping your arm or hand steady.
Importance: 53/100
Static Strength
Lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying.
Importance: 53/100
Fluency of Ideas
Coming up with lots of ideas.
Importance: 50/100
Trunk Strength
Using your lower back and stomach.
Importance: 50/100
Finger Dexterity
Putting together small parts with your fingers.
Importance: 50/100
Perceptual Speed
Quickly comparing groups of letters, numbers, pictures, or other things.
Importance: 50/100
Visualization
Imagining how something will look after it is moved around or changed.
Importance: 50/100
Multilimb Coordination
Using your arms and/or legs together while sitting, standing, or lying down.
Importance: 50/100
Far Vision
Seeing details that are far away.
Importance: 50/100
Category Flexibility
Grouping things in different ways.
Importance: 50/100
Manual Dexterity
Holding or moving items with your hands.
Importance: 50/100
Extent Flexibility
Bending, stretching, twisting, or reaching with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Importance: 47/100
Time Sharing
Doing two or more things at the same time.
Importance: 47/100
Flexibility of Closure
Seeing hidden patterns.
Importance: 44/100
Originality
Creating new and original ideas.
Importance: 44/100
Stamina
Exercising for a long time without getting out of breath.
Importance: 38/100
Speed of Closure
Quickly knowing what you are looking at.
Importance: 38/100
Control Precision
Quickly changing the controls of a machine, car, truck or boat.
Importance: 35/100
Auditory Attention
Paying attention to one sound while there are other distracting sounds.
Importance: 35/100
Gross Body Coordination
Moving your arms, legs, and mid-section together while your whole body is moving.
Importance: 35/100
Dynamic Strength
Exercising for a long time without your muscles getting tired.
Importance: 31/100
Hearing Sensitivity
Telling the difference between sounds.
Importance: 28/100
Gross Body Equilibrium
Keeping your balance or staying upright.
Importance: 28/100
Memorization
Remembering words, numbers, pictures, or steps.
Importance: 28/100
Visual Color Discrimination
Noticing the difference between colors, including shades and brightness.
Importance: 28/100
Wrist-Finger Speed
Making fast, simple, repeated movements of your fingers, hands, and wrists.
Importance: 28/100
Rate Control
Changing when and how fast you move based on how something else is moving.
Importance: 25/100
Number Facility
Adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing.
Importance: 25/100
Depth Perception
Deciding which thing is closer or farther away from you, or deciding how far away it is from you.
Importance: 25/100
Reaction Time
Quickly moving your hand, finger, or foot based on a sound, light, picture or other command.
Importance: 25/100
Mathematical Reasoning
Choosing the right type of math to solve a problem.
Importance: 25/100
Speed of Limb Movement
Quickly moving your arms and legs.
Importance: 19/100
Response Orientation
Quickly deciding if you should move your hand, foot, or other body part.
Importance: 19/100
Explosive Strength
Jumping, sprinting, or throwing something.
Importance: 16/100

The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.

Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database (www.onetcenter.org/database.html) by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 (creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.

Tools and Technology used by Physical Therapist Assistants

Walkers or rollators
Patient care beds for specialty care
Therapeutic balls
Lower extremity prosthetic devices
Patient lifts
Canes
Balance beams or boards or bolsters or rockers for rehabilitation or therapy
Electrotherapy combination units
Vascular sequential compression devices or tubing
Full body immersion hydrotherapy baths or tanks
Back or lumbar or sacral orthopedic softgoods
Orthopedic splint systems
Therapeutic heating or cooling pads or compresses or packs
Blood pressure cuff kits
Mats or platforms for rehabilitation or therapy
Mobile medical services automated external defibrillators AED or hard paddles
Dynamometers
Gait belts for rehabilitation or therapy
Arm orthopedic softgoods
Pulse oximeter units
Patient shifting boards
Ergometer
Upper extremity prosthetic devices
Reflex hammers or mallets
Therapeutic paraffin baths
Medical staff isolation or cover gowns
Weights or sets for rehabilitation or therapy
Physiological recorders
Head or neck traction supplies
Medical acoustic stethoscopes
Hydrotherapy bath or tank accessories
Positioning devices
Lower body resistance machines
Continuous passive motion CPM devices
Knee therapeutic brace or support
Patient height rulers
Cardiac output CO monitoring units
Treadmill exercisers for rehabilitation or therapy
Surgical isolation or surgical masks
Ultrasonic therapy apparatus or supplies
Reachers for the physically challenged
Protective gloves
Skinfold calipers
Plumb bobs
Galvanic or faradic stimulators
Goggles
Upper body resistance machines
Pedal exercisers for rehabilitation or therapy
Parallel bars for rehabilitation or therapy
Neuromuscular stimulators or kits
Pelvis or back traction supplies
Powder boards for rehabilitation or therapy
Orthotics or foot care products
Diathermy units
Digital camcorders or video cameras
Electromyography EMG units
Ultraviolet UV lamps
Electric vibrators for rehabilitation or therapy
Patient stretchers
Transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation units
Chest percussors
Resistive exercise bands or putty or tubing for rehabilitation or therapy
Wrist exercisers for rehabilitation or therapy
Oxygen therapy delivery system products
Wheelchairs
Goniometers or arthrometers
Crutches
Notebook computers
Exercise trampolines
Digital cameras
Desktop computers
Personal computers
Tablet computers
Medical nasal cannulas
Medical software
- Arena Health Systems Phys-X
- Beaver Creek Software The THERAPIST
- BioEx Systems Exercise Pro
- Client caseload management software
- Eazy Application Systems QuickEMR
- Knees Software PT DocTools
- Laboratory information system LIS
- Medical condition coding software
- PhysioTools Tools RG
- Rehab Documentation Company ReDoc Suite
- SpectraSoft DocuPRO
- Summit Software CarePoint
- TherAssist
- eClinicalWorks EHR software
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Data base user interface and query software
- FileMaker Pro
- Microsoft Access
- dBASE
Action games
- Video game software
- Virtual reality game software
Electronic mail software
- Email software
- Microsoft Outlook
Accounting software
- Accounting software
- Billing software
- Bookkeeping software
Calendar and scheduling software
- Scheduling software
- SpectraSoft AppointmentsPRO
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
- Spreadsheet software
Office suite software
- Microsoft Office software
Operating system software
- Microsoft Windows
Word processing software
- Microsoft Word
- Word processing software

The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.

Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database (www.onetcenter.org/database.html) by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 (creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.

Plan Your Education

The Physical Therapist Assistant - Military Bridge Program Guide is a tool to help you map out how to successfully get your degree at Lake Superior College.

View approximate total tuition and fees for MN residents to complete this degree.

This program has additional entry requirements.

The Physical Therapist Assistant - Military Bridge Program Application Window is Open Year Round.

You must first be admitted as an LSC student and declare Physical Therapist Assistant - Military Bridge as your major before applying to this program.

Not an accepted LSC student yet? Be sure to Apply FOR FREE to LSC and gain admission before applying to this program.

Program Admissions Overview

View pre-program requirements and other requirements for accepted students.

Paying for College

Lake Superior College$5,931 LSC IceHawks Logo

Minnesota State Colleges$6,444

Minnesota State Universities$10,643

University of Minnesota$14,928

Minnesota Private Colleges and Universities$44,928

*Based on average 2025-26 tuition and fees. For the exact costs, contact the institution that interests you. Does not include room and board.

Financial Aid Tuition and Fees Scholarships

Program Participation Requirements

Pre-program Requirements

Pre-Program and general education courses should be completed prior to PTA courses. Prior to acceptance into the program, students must complete the following:

Completion of an approved military training program per current program admission criteria.
Submit a program application, including a recommendation from a supervising physical therapist verifying six-months post-training work experience, and a skills documentation log.

With approved training and work experience, Military Bridge track students will receive a total of 54 credits for courses indicated with a (#).

Federal background study approval is required through a designated provider.

Qualified applicants should be aware that program class sizes are limited, which may delay acceptance into the program.

TEAS Exam with a score at or above 58.6% on ATI TEAS required prior to online application deadline. Admission to the PTA program is competitive based on pre-technical and/or general education course GPA and TEAS score.

Students may be required to complete additional (or less) coursework, dependent upon the results of Computerized Placement Test (CPT) and/or previous coursework completed or certifications awarded. General Education courses required by this program may be taken during any term, including prior to formal program acceptance, as long as the specific prerequisites for that course have been met. All courses in the program need to be completed with a grade of “C” or better.

Successful entry into this program requires a specific level of skill in the areas of English, mathematics, and reading. Program entry will depend, in part, on meeting the prerequisites listed below.

English/Reading:

Eligible for ENGL 1106 – College Composition I, or
Completion of ENGL/READ 0950/0955 (or equivalent or higher). ENGL/READ 0950/0955 may not be taken concurrently with Semester I coursework

Mathematics:

Eligible for MATH 0950/0955 Essentials of Mathematics: Intermediate/Advanced.

There are other ways to qualify. Visit Course Placement to find out more.

Pre-Program Courses

Course	Title	Credits
Close Dialog ALTH 1410 Medical Terminology This course focuses on the component parts of medical terms: prefixes, suffixes and word roots. Students practice formation, analysis and reconstruction of terms with an emphasis on spelling, definition and pronunciation. (Prerequisites: ENGL0950 or EN ALTH 1410	Close Dialog ALTH 1410 Medical Terminology This course focuses on the component parts of medical terms: prefixes, suffixes and word roots. Students practice formation, analysis and reconstruction of terms with an emphasis on spelling, definition and pronunciation. (Prerequisites: ENGL0950 or EN Medical Terminology	1#
Close Dialog BIOL 1005 Introduction to Cell Biology An introduction to the field of cell biology with a focus on the basic unit of life, the cell - its function, chemistry, metabolism, and structure. Must be passed with a grade of "C" or better to qualify as a prerequisite for other Biology courses. (Pre BIOL 1005	Close Dialog BIOL 1005 Introduction to Cell Biology An introduction to the field of cell biology with a focus on the basic unit of life, the cell - its function, chemistry, metabolism, and structure. Must be passed with a grade of "C" or better to qualify as a prerequisite for other Biology courses. (Pre Introduction to Cell Biology	1#
Close Dialog BIOL 1140 Human Anatomy and Physiology I A study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body with emphasis on the relationship between structure and function. Topics studied are tissues, integumentary system, skeletal system, articulations, muscle system, nervous system, and special senses. BIOL 1140	Close Dialog BIOL 1140 Human Anatomy and Physiology I A study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body with emphasis on the relationship between structure and function. Topics studied are tissues, integumentary system, skeletal system, articulations, muscle system, nervous system, and special senses. Human Anatomy and Physiology I	4#
Close Dialog ENGL 1106 College Composition I First semester college-level composition course focusing on writing expository prose using word processing as a tool for composing. Emphasis is on writing as a process, critical reading, developing a voice, and grammar review. Presupposes competency in ENGL 1106	Close Dialog ENGL 1106 College Composition I First semester college-level composition course focusing on writing expository prose using word processing as a tool for composing. Emphasis is on writing as a process, critical reading, developing a voice, and grammar review. Presupposes competency in College Composition I	3

# = With approved training and work experience, Military Bridge track students will receive a total of 54 credits for courses indicated with a #.

Required Courses

Course	Title	Credits
Semester 1
Close Dialog BIOL 1141 Human Anatomy and Physiology II Continued study of body structure and function. Incorporates principles of chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology. A study of the endocrine system, cardiovascular system, immune system, respiratory system, urinary system, digestive system, and r BIOL 1141	Close Dialog BIOL 1141 Human Anatomy and Physiology II Continued study of body structure and function. Incorporates principles of chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology. A study of the endocrine system, cardiovascular system, immune system, respiratory system, urinary system, digestive system, and r Human Anatomy and Physiology II	4
Close Dialog PTA 1000 Intro to Health and Medical Literature This course provides a basic introduction to scientific and health-related literature, with a focus on printed and on-line journals. Students will learn how to efficiently find and obtain journal articles relevant to a particular health care field of stud PTA 1000	Close Dialog PTA 1000 Intro to Health and Medical Literature This course provides a basic introduction to scientific and health-related literature, with a focus on printed and on-line journals. Students will learn how to efficiently find and obtain journal articles relevant to a particular health care field of stud Intro to Health and Medical Literature	1#
Close Dialog PTA 1400 Documentation for PTAs This course covers the legal and reimbursement documentation guidelines, physical therapist/physical therapist assistant documentation responsibilities, and competent completion of physical therapy documentation. (Prerequisites: BIOL1140, ALTH1410, ENGL PTA 1400	Close Dialog PTA 1400 Documentation for PTAs This course covers the legal and reimbursement documentation guidelines, physical therapist/physical therapist assistant documentation responsibilities, and competent completion of physical therapy documentation. (Prerequisites: BIOL1140, ALTH1410, ENGL Documentation for PTAs	1#
Close Dialog PTA 1410 Introduction to Physical Therapist Assisting This course introduces the role of the physical therapist assistant and the skills used daily as a physical therapist assistant. Emphasis is on professional behaviors and patient care skills including: lifting methods, basic wheelchair operations, body PTA 1410	Close Dialog PTA 1410 Introduction to Physical Therapist Assisting This course introduces the role of the physical therapist assistant and the skills used daily as a physical therapist assistant. Emphasis is on professional behaviors and patient care skills including: lifting methods, basic wheelchair operations, body Introduction to Physical Therapist Assisting	2#
Close Dialog PTA 1411 Procedures for PTAs I This course covers basic physical therapy skills with emphasis on thermotherapy, cryotherapy, and compression techniques. Integration of concurrent patient care skills is combined with the modality techniques. Student awareness of evidence-based practice PTA 1411	Close Dialog PTA 1411 Procedures for PTAs I This course covers basic physical therapy skills with emphasis on thermotherapy, cryotherapy, and compression techniques. Integration of concurrent patient care skills is combined with the modality techniques. Student awareness of evidence-based practice Procedures for PTAs I	2#
Close Dialog PTA 1417 Clinical Experience I This course involves working in an outpatient physical therapy clinic in which first year PTA students will work in partnership with second year students to provide physical therapy services to patients. Skills will begin with those of a physical therapy PTA 1417	Close Dialog PTA 1417 Clinical Experience I This course involves working in an outpatient physical therapy clinic in which first year PTA students will work in partnership with second year students to provide physical therapy services to patients. Skills will begin with those of a physical therapy Clinical Experience I	2#
Close Dialog PTA 1421 Pathophysiology for PTAs I This course provides an introduction to pathophysiology of the musculoskeletal, endocrine, and circulatory systems. The roles of health care professionals involved in the care of persons with disease will also be discussed. A variety of conditions are st PTA 1421	Close Dialog PTA 1421 Pathophysiology for PTAs I This course provides an introduction to pathophysiology of the musculoskeletal, endocrine, and circulatory systems. The roles of health care professionals involved in the care of persons with disease will also be discussed. A variety of conditions are st Pathophysiology for PTAs I	1#
Close Dialog PTA 1431 Therapeutic Exercise I This course presents theoretical information and instructions for performing range of motion exercises, goniometric measurements of joint range of motion, manual muscle strength testing, and passive stretching techniques. Patient handling skills that are PTA 1431	Close Dialog PTA 1431 Therapeutic Exercise I This course presents theoretical information and instructions for performing range of motion exercises, goniometric measurements of joint range of motion, manual muscle strength testing, and passive stretching techniques. Patient handling skills that are Therapeutic Exercise I	2#
Close Dialog PTA 1460 Functional Kinesiology I Students study the human musculoskeletal system and principles that influence movement. The course includes studying the location and function of bones and muscles. Students are introduced to palpation skills and observation skills through the analysis of PTA 1460	Close Dialog PTA 1460 Functional Kinesiology I Students study the human musculoskeletal system and principles that influence movement. The course includes studying the location and function of bones and muscles. Students are introduced to palpation skills and observation skills through the analysis of Functional Kinesiology I	2#
Semester 2
Close Dialog PTA 1512 Procedures for PTAs II This course covers the theory and application of procedural interventions including electrical stimulation, light therapies, spinal traction, biofeedback, continuous passive motion, aseptic technique, and taping. Principles of wound etiology and healing a PTA 1512	Close Dialog PTA 1512 Procedures for PTAs II This course covers the theory and application of procedural interventions including electrical stimulation, light therapies, spinal traction, biofeedback, continuous passive motion, aseptic technique, and taping. Principles of wound etiology and healing a Procedures for PTAs II	3#
Close Dialog PTA 1522 Pathophysiology for PTAs II This course covers organ transplants, eye and ear disorders, mental health conditions, infectious disease, integumentary system disorders, selected circulatory and cardiac conditions, and the role of physical therapy in treating these conditions. Also in PTA 1522	Close Dialog PTA 1522 Pathophysiology for PTAs II This course covers organ transplants, eye and ear disorders, mental health conditions, infectious disease, integumentary system disorders, selected circulatory and cardiac conditions, and the role of physical therapy in treating these conditions. Also in Pathophysiology for PTAs II	1#
Close Dialog PTA 1527 Clinical Experience II This course involves working in an outpatient physical therapy clinic in which first year students treat patients under the supervision of physical therapists. The student will follow the physical therapist's treatment plan and provide physical therapy se PTA 1527	Close Dialog PTA 1527 Clinical Experience II This course involves working in an outpatient physical therapy clinic in which first year students treat patients under the supervision of physical therapists. The student will follow the physical therapist's treatment plan and provide physical therapy se Clinical Experience II	2#
Close Dialog PTA 1532 Therapeutic Exercise II This course covers muscle structure and function, along with knowledge and application of various forms of therapeutic exercise including; stretching, muscle strengthening and endurance, aerobic conditioning, coordination, balance, proprioception, PNF dia PTA 1532	Close Dialog PTA 1532 Therapeutic Exercise II This course covers muscle structure and function, along with knowledge and application of various forms of therapeutic exercise including; stretching, muscle strengthening and endurance, aerobic conditioning, coordination, balance, proprioception, PNF dia Therapeutic Exercise II	4#
Close Dialog PTA 1562 Functional Kinesiology II This course covers the structure and function of joints and the spinal nerves. Students build on knowledge from Functional Kinesiology I in analyzing human movement. The course includes data collection and treatment interventions related to dysfunction PTA 1562	Close Dialog PTA 1562 Functional Kinesiology II This course covers the structure and function of joints and the spinal nerves. Students build on knowledge from Functional Kinesiology I in analyzing human movement. The course includes data collection and treatment interventions related to dysfunction Functional Kinesiology II	3#
Close Dialog PTA 1564 Manual Therapy Techniques This course covers principles of manual therapy with which the physical therapist assistant may assist the physical therapist. Topics include therapeutic massage and other soft tissue mobilization techniques, as well as an introduction to principles of jo PTA 1564	Close Dialog PTA 1564 Manual Therapy Techniques This course covers principles of manual therapy with which the physical therapist assistant may assist the physical therapist. Topics include therapeutic massage and other soft tissue mobilization techniques, as well as an introduction to principles of jo Manual Therapy Techniques	2#
Semester 3
Close Dialog COMM 1105 Interpersonal Communication This course provides opportunities for students to understand the process of human communication, to assess their strengths and weaknesses as communicators, to assist them in solving problems of an interpersonal nature, and develop interaction skills for COMM 1105 or Close Dialog COMM 1100 Introduction to Communication This course introduces students to the concepts, models, and theories of human communication and their application to interpersonal, small group, and public speaking situations. MTC goal areas: (1) Communication (Prerequisites: College-level reading) COMM 1100	Close Dialog COMM 1105 Interpersonal Communication This course provides opportunities for students to understand the process of human communication, to assess their strengths and weaknesses as communicators, to assist them in solving problems of an interpersonal nature, and develop interaction skills for Interpersonal Communication or Close Dialog COMM 1100 Introduction to Communication This course introduces students to the concepts, models, and theories of human communication and their application to interpersonal, small group, and public speaking situations. MTC goal areas: (1) Communication (Prerequisites: College-level reading) Introduction to Communication	3
Close Dialog PSYC 1135 Lifespan Developmental Psychology A scientific, theoretical, and historical examination of physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development across the lifespan with a focus on individual and group (e.g., race, class, gender) similarities and differences across American society and c PSYC 1135	Close Dialog PSYC 1135 Lifespan Developmental Psychology A scientific, theoretical, and historical examination of physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development across the lifespan with a focus on individual and group (e.g., race, class, gender) similarities and differences across American society and c Lifespan Developmental Psychology	3
Semester 4
Close Dialog PTA 2650 Rehabilitation and Functional Therapy This course covers pathophysiology, data collection, and intervention techniques to meet the needs of adult and pediatric patients with neurological impairments. Content includes adaptive equipment, wheelchair seating and mobility, adult and pediatric pos PTA 2650	Close Dialog PTA 2650 Rehabilitation and Functional Therapy This course covers pathophysiology, data collection, and intervention techniques to meet the needs of adult and pediatric patients with neurological impairments. Content includes adaptive equipment, wheelchair seating and mobility, adult and pediatric pos Rehabilitation and Functional Therapy	4#
Close Dialog PTA 2651 Advanced Physical Therapy Techniques This course covers special techniques and treatment protocols with which the physical therapist assistant (PTA) will assist the physical therapist. These include care of patients with cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions, care of geriatric clients, aqu PTA 2651	Close Dialog PTA 2651 Advanced Physical Therapy Techniques This course covers special techniques and treatment protocols with which the physical therapist assistant (PTA) will assist the physical therapist. These include care of patients with cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions, care of geriatric clients, aqu Advanced Physical Therapy Techniques	4#
Semester 5
Close Dialog PTA 2680 Physical Therapy for Special Populations This course provides detail regarding physical therapy treatment for a variety of special populations, including pediatrics, geriatrics, bariatrics, women's health, acute care, bone disease, industrial medicine, and selected orthopedic and neurological co PTA 2680	Close Dialog PTA 2680 Physical Therapy for Special Populations This course provides detail regarding physical therapy treatment for a variety of special populations, including pediatrics, geriatrics, bariatrics, women's health, acute care, bone disease, industrial medicine, and selected orthopedic and neurological co Physical Therapy for Special Populations	3
Close Dialog PTA 2682 Legal and Ethical Aspects of Physical Therapy Practice This course includes ethical and legal issues facing the physical therapist assistant. Concepts covered include billing and reimbursement, abuse/neglect, mandatory reporting, quality assurance/risk management, physical therapy in long-term care settings, PTA 2682	Close Dialog PTA 2682 Legal and Ethical Aspects of Physical Therapy Practice This course includes ethical and legal issues facing the physical therapist assistant. Concepts covered include billing and reimbursement, abuse/neglect, mandatory reporting, quality assurance/risk management, physical therapy in long-term care settings, Legal and Ethical Aspects of Physical Therapy Practice	2
Close Dialog PTA 2780 Physical Therapist Assistant Basic Refresher This course is designed to assist physical therapist assistants in reviewing and/or updating concepts fundamental to physical therapy as well as new theories about practice. It will also be helpful to those preparing to take the national licensure exam a PTA 2780	Close Dialog PTA 2780 Physical Therapist Assistant Basic Refresher This course is designed to assist physical therapist assistants in reviewing and/or updating concepts fundamental to physical therapy as well as new theories about practice. It will also be helpful to those preparing to take the national licensure exam a Physical Therapist Assistant Basic Refresher	2
Semester 6
Close Dialog PTA 2790 Clinical Internship I This course is the student's first full-time clinical internship in a physical therapy facility. The student will function as a second-year PTA student in the facility for seven weeks and will be involved in patient care compatible to the role of the PTA PTA 2790	Close Dialog PTA 2790 Clinical Internship I This course is the student's first full-time clinical internship in a physical therapy facility. The student will function as a second-year PTA student in the facility for seven weeks and will be involved in patient care compatible to the role of the PTA Clinical Internship I	6#
Close Dialog PTA 2792 Clinical Internship II This course is the student's final full-time clinical internship in a physical therapy facility. The student will function as a second-year PTA student in the facility for seven weeks and will be involved in patient care compatible to the role of the PTA PTA 2792	Close Dialog PTA 2792 Clinical Internship II This course is the student's final full-time clinical internship in a physical therapy facility. The student will function as a second-year PTA student in the facility for seven weeks and will be involved in patient care compatible to the role of the PTA Clinical Internship II	6#
Total:	74

Courses may require a prerequisite. Check with an advisor.

# = With approved training and work experience, Military Bridge track students will receive a total of 54 credits for courses indicated with a #.

Program Outcomes

Work under the supervision of a physical therapist in an ethical, legal, safe, and effective manner.
Implement a comprehensive treatment plan developed by a physical therapist.
Communicate regularly with supervising physical therapists about the patient’s progress and the need for adjustments to be made by the physical therapist in treatment procedures in accordance with changes in patient status.
Perform appropriate data collection techniques within the knowledge and limits of practice to assist supervising physical therapists in monitoring and modifying the plan of care.
Interact with patients and families in a manner which provides the desired psychosocial support including the recognition of cultural and socioeconomic differences.
Participate in the teaching of other health care providers, patients and families.
Document relevant aspects of patient treatment.
Participate in discharge planning and follow-up care.
Demonstrate effective written, oral, and nonverbal communication with patients and their families, colleagues, health care providers, and the public.
Demonstrate an understanding of levels of authority and responsibility; planning, time management, supervisory process, performance evaluations, policies and procedures; fiscal considerations for physical therapy providers and consumers; continuous quality improvement; and evidence-based practice.
Demonstrate professional behaviors required for success in the field of physical therapy.
Identify career development and life-long learning opportunities.
Demonstrate knowledge of physical therapy principles and concepts.

Program Features

One of a kind: LSC’s Physical Therapist Assistant–Military Bridge program is recognized as the only online PTA degree-completion program in the nation for military-trained physical therapy personnel.

Lake Superior College is successfully removing barriers for military veterans. The Physical Therapist Assistant–Military Bridge program eliminates time and financial barriers for both veterans and taxpayers, who would otherwise pay both for the initial military training and for the re-training outside the military, through veterans’ federal education benefits.

Flexible scheduling: Participants are enrolled from all over the U.S and overseas, providing flexibility in setting their own schedules in studying and learning.

Accreditation

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Lake Superior College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: ; email: ; website: https://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call or email .

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Why LSC?

Lake Superior College is affordable, with the second lowest tuition rates in the Minnesota State college system.

19:1 student-to-faculty ratio and zero large lecture halls mean that you will interact one-on-one with your instructors.

Enjoy all the natural beauty and endless recreation opportunities in Duluth, Minnesota, from easy to extreme.

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(800) 432-2884 ext. 7601

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