Program Goals and Objectives

Physical Therapist Assistant Program Goals and Objectives

The goals of the PTA program are expressed as student-based performance outcomes. These goals provide the foundation for the PTA program. All components of the program are directed toward student achievement of the following outcomes.

An entry-level PTA will:

1. Implement physical therapy interventions under the supervision and direction of a physical therapist to:
   1. Achieve patient treatment goals as established by the physical therapist;
   2. Educate patients and clients about healthy behaviors;
   3. Promote functional mobility;
   4. Promote community integration.
2. Exhibit professional behaviors in interactions with patients, clients, and other healthcare professionals in a variety of settings in ways that demonstrate:
   1. Knowledge of current issues related to the field of physical therapy;
   2. Sensitivity to cultural and individual differences.
3. Demonstrate effective verbal and nonverbal communication among members of the health care team and their patients.

The WCC Physical Therapist Assistant program provides a dynamic curriculum that utilizes current educational technological resources, current educational theory, and reflects growth in the field of physical therapy and in the community. In keeping with the College and Program missions, these resources are brought together to provide an academic and clinical program for students that will lead to specific student outcomes.

To achieve these outcomes, the faculty of the PTA program will:

1. Develop and deliver a curriculum that reflects the current and dynamic needs of the Physical Therapist Assistant.
2. Graduate a student qualified for employment as an entry-level Physical Therapist Assistant.
3. Prepare students for successful completion of the licensing examination.
4. Maintain communication with those WCC departments offering the general education courses that are an integral part of the PTA program.
5. Develop and maintain close communication with clinical education sites, prospective employers, graduates and employers of prospective graduates for program development and assessment.