The South College-Asheville Physical Therapist Assistant program is an eight (8) quarter program leading to an Associate of Applied Science degree. Classes may be taught throughout the day and evening, Monday through Friday and Saturday, with additional open lab and library services available on Fridays. Class schedules may change at the discretion of the institution. Students must be committed to considerable out of classroom preparation and study. Certain methods classes require off-campus site attendance. During each of the last two terms, the student is required to successfully complete all clinical internships.

PTA Licensure

Passing a state licensing examination administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy is a requirement for the professional practice in the state of North Carolina. Specific information regarding application for licensure will be available to students during their last term of enrollment. Licensure or registration is not required in every state for the physical therapist assistant to practice. Complete information on practice acts and regulations can be obtained from individual state licensing boards.

Clinical education internships are required and are administrated by South College-Asheville and take place in a variety of health care delivery facilities in the Asheville metropolitan area and beyond. Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from these off campus educational sites. The Physical Therapist Assistant program provides a comprehensive curriculum that includes verifying the competence and professionalism of its students. To promote an optimal educational experience for all students, diversity in teaching methodology is also practiced. As role models, those involved with the program professional. The mission of the program is to develop knowledgeable, motivated, and competent professionals who have the skills necessary to meet the career demands of an entry-level physical therapist assistant.