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Physical Therapist Assistant

Associate of Science Degree

Program Overview

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program at Quincy College prepares students for licensure and employment as Physical Therapist Assistants. Graduates will possess exemplary technical competence, be critical thinkers and practice ethically in various healthcare settings. The program is dedicated to the industry of Physical Therapy, lifelong learning and values a commitment to the community.

The Quincy College physical therapist assistant faculty is committed to graduating confident, knowledgeable clinicians who work under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist. Guided by the practice that physical therapy necessitates specific complex cognitive, psychomotor, and affective behaviors, the curriculum is designed to meet the standards of the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) and the professional standards of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

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PTA Program Outcome Data

2-year average 2022 2023
Graduation Rate 80% 60% 100%
First Time NPTE-PTA Licensure Exam Pass Rate
94.5% 100% 88.9%
Ultimate NTPE-PTA Licensure Exam
Pass Rate
100% 100% 100%
Employment Rate 100% 100% 100%

 

* This percentage reflects students who have passed the licensing exam and reported employment within 6 months of graduation.

Accreditation Status

The PTA Program at Quincy College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave. Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305; telephone: 703-706-3245. Email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org.

If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call Christie Amorosino at (617) 405-5969 or email camorosino@quincycollege.edu.

Student Financial Fact Sheet

The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education voted to require all Doctor of Physical Therapy Programs and Physical Therapist Assistant Programs to “provide the public with current, accurate, reliable, and easily available information about the cost of attendance” (CAPTE Rules of Practice and Procedures 8.20(c) Student Costs).

Click Here to view Quincy College’s 2023 PTA Student Financial Fact Sheet.

Have questions or want to apply for the program? Contact:

Christie Amorosino, PT, DPT, Program Director
camorosino@quincycollege.edu
(617) 405-5969

David Huynh, Admissions Associate
david.huynh@quincycollege.edu
(617) 984-1713

PTA Complaint Policy

PTA Complaint Policy

Physical Therapist Assistant Courses
    •  
    • Code
    • Course
    • Credits
    • PTA 100
    • Introduction to the Physical Therapist Assistant
    • 3
    This course introduces the student to the physical therapy profession. Topics include: the history of physical therapy, pertinent laws of practice, code of conduct, the role of the professional association and regulatory boards, the role of the physical therapist and physical therapist assistant, definition of the rehabilitation population, communication skills and psycho-social aspect of disabilities, industry trends, death and dying and grief. Prerequisites: Admission to the PTA Program.
    • PTA 110
    • PTA Interventions I
    • 4
    This course will introduce the student to fundamentals of patient care procedures including body mechanics, bed and chair positioning, bed mobility, transfers, aseptic procedures, burn and wound care, edema assessment and management, vital signs and their relationship to treatment programs; measurement of assistive devices and ambulation training, wheelchair mobility and measurement, and introduction to basic principles of therapeutic exercise. Guidelines for documentation of physical therapy treatment will be introduced. Prerequisites: Admission to the PTA Program.
    • PTA 112
    • PTA Interventions II
    • 5
    This course includes the PT intervention skills, knowledge and modalities used for pain relief and normalization of soft tissues. This course will emphasize the principles and uses of: hot packs, cryotherapy, paraffin, therapeutic ultrasound and phonophoresis, aquatics, hydrotherapy (whirlpool and contrast baths), spinal traction, electromagnetic radiations (laser, ultraviolet, diathermy), electrical stimulation (including high volt, functional estim, interferential, TENS, iontophoresis and biofeedback), intermittent compression and CPM. Students learn to document treatment parameters appropriate for PTA Interventions II, document patient responses to treatment and interpret professional literature relative to evidence- based practice. Prerequisites: PTA 100, PTA 110, PTA 113, PTA 115, PTA 240.
    • PTA 113
    • Critical Application Skills I
    • 1
    This course complements the didactic knowledge students are learning throughout the semester in PTA 100, 110, and PTA 240. The course focuses on utilizing critical thinking skills to apply the didactic knowledge to patient cases. Participating students are asked to utilize case studies to assess problems, create solutions, prepare appropriate documentation and develop a beginning level of understanding of their role within the healthcare system. All PTA students are required to take this course. Prerequisites: Admission to the PTA Program.
    • PTA 115
    • Medical Terminology for the PTA
    • 1
    This course includes an introduction to word parts building medical terms, instruction in organization of the body, directional terms, abbreviation and an overview of the different systems of the body. Students will review physical therapy documentation considering medical terminology and medical abbreviations, pathological conditions, short and long term goals and psychosocial factors as they relate to the contemporary practice of physical therapy. Prerequisites: Admission to the PTA Program.
    • PTA 120
    • Musculoskeletal Anatomy and Function
    • 4
    This course provides the student a review of the kinesiological function of the musculoskeletal anatomy system. The course presents basic anatomical information as it pertains to the musculoskeletal system, with emphasis on the origin, insertion, nerve innervations and actions of all major muscle groups. PTA students will learn how to perform muscle testing and goniometry measurements for the head, spine and extremities. Therapeutic exercise principals will be addressed in addition to some of the commonly recognized orthopedic conditions. Students are required to document and utilize a plan of care including recognition of applicable PTA skills, identification of need for change and progression within a plan of care. Prerequisites: PTA 100, PTA 110, PTA 113, PTA 115, PTA 240.
    • PTA 125
    • Manual Therapy for the PTA
    • 2
    This course introduces the student to theory and techniques of joint mobilization, soft tissue mobilization, and therapeutic massage. Students will be able to apply and build on knowledge of human anatomy and kinesiology for soft tissue mobilization techniques. Specific techniques such as effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, vibration, shaking, friction, J-stroking, strumming, myofascial release, trigger point release will be taught to address specific musculoskeletal pain issues in Physical Therapy for clinical application. Prerequisites: PTA 100, PTA 110, PTA 113, PTA 115, PTA 240.
    • PTA 210
    • PTA Interventions III
    • 4
    This course will focus on the etiology, pathology, clinical signs, and medical management of those presenting with cardiovascular and/or pulmonary diseases. The course and lab component will cover physical therapy interventions appropriate for cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions Prerequisites PTA 100, PTA 110, PTA 112, PTA 113, PTA 115, PTA 120, PTA 125, PTA 213, PTA 240, PTA 270.
    • PTA 213
    • Critical Application Skills II
    • 1
    This course complements the didactic knowledge students are learning throughout the semester in PTA 112, PTA 125, and PTA 120. The course focuses on utilizing critical thinking skills to apply the didactic knowledge to patient cases. Participating students are asked to utilize case studies to assess problems, create solutions, prepare appropriate documentation and develop a deeper level of understanding of their role within the healthcare system. All PTA students are required to take this course. Prerequisites: PTA 100, PTA 110, PTA 113, PTA 115, PTA 240.
    • PTA 220
    • PTA Interventions IV
    • 5
    This course for the Physical Therapist Assistant will provide a link between the pathophysiology of neurologic deficits and possible rehabilitation interventions for improving movement outcomes. It introduces the basic structure and function of the nervous system and describes normal motor development, motor control and motor learning. The course will emphasize integrating previously learned and new skills/techniques into the comprehensive rehabilitation of patients with neurological issues, amputees, pediatrics, CVA, SCI, and other musculoskeletal disorders. This course includes an integrated clinical education component. Students are assigned a clinical site and are given the opportunity to integrate knowledge they have learned in the class and lab setting into the clinical setting with patients. Prerequisites: PTA 100, PTA 110, PTA 112, PTA 113, PTA 115, PTA 120, PTA 125, PTA 213, PTA 240, PTA 270.
    • PTA 224
    • Career Capstone
    • 1
    This course is a culmination of professional topics focused towards profession preparation of the Physical Therapist Assistant. Topics include: behavioral considerations, professional habits, resume writing, interviewing skills, clinical education reflection, and licensure preparation and continuing education. Prerequisites: PTA 100, PTA 110, PTA 112, PTA 113, PTA 115, PTA 120, PTA 125, PTA 240, PTA 270, PTA 210, PTA 213, PTA 220, PTA 260, PTA 270, PTA 280, PTA 290.
    • PTA 240
    • Pathology for the PTA
    • 3
    This course is designed to review general pathological conditions with a particular emphasis on those conditions commonly encountered in rehabilitation. Pathology, etiology, diagnosis, signs, symptoms and implications for rehabilitation will be covered. Prerequisites: Admissions into the PTA program.
    • PTA 260
    • Critical Application Skills III
    • 1
    This course complements the didactic knowledge students are learning throughout the semester in PTA 210 and PTA 220. The course focuses on utilizing critical thinking skills to apply the didactic knowledge to moderately complex and complex patient cases. Participating students are asked to utilize case studies to assess problems, create solutions, prepare appropriate documentation and develop a deeper level of understanding of their role within the healthcare system. All PTA students are required to take this course. Prerequisites: PTA 100, PTA 110, PTA 112, PTA 113, PTA 115, PTA 120, PTA 125, PTA 213, PTA 240, PTA 270.
    • PTA 270
    • Clinical Education I
    • 3
    This is the first of three clinical affiliations in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program. This is a five-week full-time affiliation (40 hours/week). Under the direction and supervision of a clinical instructor who is a licensed Physical Therapist or Physical Therapist Assistant, students are given the opportunity to integrate knowledge they have learned in the class and laboratory settings into the clinical setting with patients. Students have the opportunity to apply patient care skills and further develop patient/family education, communication and documentation skills. Students and clinical instructors are expected to always work within their scope of practice legally and ethically. By the completion of this experience, it is expected that the student demonstrates a minimum of Advanced Beginner Level performance on the Clinical Performance Instrument. Students must complete a reflection assignment, reflecting upon the entire experience, identifying areas of strength and areas that may need improvement during the next affiliation. Prerequisites: PTA 100, PTA 110, PTA 112, PTA 113, PTA 115, PTA 120, PTA 125, PTA 213, PTA 240.
    • PTA 280
    • Clinical Education II
    • 3
    This is the second of three clinical affiliations in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program. This is a five-week full-time affiliation (40 hours/week). Under the direction and supervision of a clinical instructor who is a licensed Physical Therapist or Physical Therapist Assistant, students are given the opportunity to integrate knowledge they have learned in the class and laboratory setting into the clinical setting with patients. Students have the opportunity to apply patient care skills and further develop patient/family education, communication, and documentation skills. Students and clinical instructors are expected to always work within their scope of practice legally and ethically. By the completion of this experience, it is expected that the student demonstrates a minimum of Intermediate Level performance on the Clinical Performance Instrument. Students must complete a reflection assignment, reflecting upon the entire experience, identifying areas of strength and areas that may need improvement during
    the next affiliation. Prerequisites: PTA 100, PTA 110, PTA 112, PTA 113, PTA 115, PTA 120, PTA 125, PTA 210, PTA 213, PTA 220, PTA 240, PTA 260, PTA 270.
    • PTA 290
    • Clinical Education III
    • 4
    This is the third and final six-week full-time (40 hours/week) clinical affiliation in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program. Under the direction and supervision of a clinical instructor who is a licensed Physical Therapist or Physical Therapist Assistant, students are given the opportunity to integrate knowledge they have learned in the class and laboratory setting into the clinical setting with patients. Students have the opportunity to apply patient care skills and further develop patient/family education, communication and documentation skills. Students and clinical instructors are expected to always work within their scope of practice and practice legally and ethically. Students are provided the opportunity to meet entry level requirements of a physical therapist assistant during this affiliation. By the completion of this experience, it is expected that the student will be functioning at Entry Level on the Clinical Performance Instrument. Students will complete a written reflection assignment on this experience, identifying career and continuing education goals. Prerequisites: PTA 100, PTA 110, PTA 112, PTA 113, PTA 115, PTA 120, PTA 125, PTA 210, PTA 213, PTA 220, PTA 240, PTA 260, PTA 270, PTA 280
    • BIO 131
    • Anatomy & Physiology I w/ Lab
    • 4
    This course is an integrated study of the structure and function of the human body from the cellular level to the systemic level. Topics include: anatomical terminology, molecules, cells, basic histology, and organs. The integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and sensory systems are also studied. Laboratory experience is correlated with classroom lecture; therefore, they are taken together as a single, 4-credit course. Placement at ENG 101 level strongly advised. Prerequisite: BIO 111 with “C” or better.
    • BIO 132
    • Anatomy & Physiology II w/ Lab
    • 4
    This course is an integrated study of the structure and function of the human body including the endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Laboratory experience is correlated with classroom lecture; therefore, they are taken together as a single, 4-credit course. Prerequisite: BIO 131 with “C” or better.
    • CSI 101
    • Introduction to Computers
    • 3
    This course introduces the student to the theory, structure, and application of computers. Topics include word processing, spread sheeting, presentation, and database management (software).
    • ENG 101
    • English Composition I
    • 3
    A required course for all students who have demonstrated acceptable writing proficiency as measured by a standard test or satisfactory completion of ENG 090. This course will emphasize developing the student’s ability to articulate his/her thoughts in writing a coherent, unified, and well- structured composition. The student will write a series of papers. The student will also learn the techniques needed to produce a library research paper. The required research paper is a major component of the course.
    • ENG 102
    • English Composition II
    • 3
    A required course, which introduces the student to themes and techniques in the basic genres of literature: the short story, drama, and poetry. Expository papers may be written in response to ideas embodied in literature. Prerequisite: ENG 101 or permission of instructor.
    • HIS 101
    • United States History I
    • 3
    This survey course traces the history of American development from pre-Columbian exploration and the Colonial era through the Civil War. Emphasis is given to the main lines of American development from the coming of the pre-Columbian explorers to the end of the Civil War. Special emphasis is given to constitutional developments in this period including the evolution of the British colonial charters, state constitutions, and the federal constitution. Placement at ENG 101 level strongly advised.
    • MAT 107
    • Statistics
    • 3
    Introduces the student to the fundamentals of mathematical statistics. Topics include frequency distributions, measures of central tendency, measures of dispersion, probability, sampling distributions, problems with normal and t-distributions, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing. Students will be required to complete homework assignments using a web-based computer program. Prerequisite: Beginning Algebra MAT 097 or Equivalent or Permission of Instructor.
    • PSY 216
    • Growth & Development
    • 3
    This course explores human growth and development across the lifespan, from how the fetus develops a preference for familiar voices, to the adolescent identity crisis, to the development of wisdom in late adulthood. The course is organized around major developmental periods in the lifespan. Contributions of significant developmental theorists are highlighted. Placement at ENG 101 level strongly advised.

Program Goals

1. Graduates will receive an Associate of Science degree designed to lead to licensure/credentials to practice as an entry-level physical therapist assistant under the direction and supervision of a Physical Therapist.

2. Graduates will be competent in all the skills necessary to perform as a Physical Therapist Assistant under the direction and supervision of a Physical Therapist in a variety of settings.

3. Graduates will be well rounded in their education including basic, clinical, and social science coursework to enhance their ability to think critically as a member of the healthcare team.

4. The program will promote the importance of continuing personal and professional development through service to the community, life-long learning opportunities, and membership in professional organizations

Physical Therapist Assistant-Semester-Path

About the Program

Aligned with Quincy College’s mission to encourage academic achievement and excellence, the physical therapist assistant (PTA) program faculty and clinical educators value student learning and achievement both in and out of the classroom. Efforts are made toward a holistic, respectful learning environment. This collaborated effort includes a variety of learning resources and recognizes and understands differences in learning styles. An innovated approach will motivate the learner by utilizing contemporary education practices, technology, and competency based laboratory practice.

The PTA program is a five (5) semester, integrated full time day program of rigorous academic curriculum. The hybrid curriculum consists of foundational content, physical therapy technical courses, and a clinical education component. The program values and promotes excellence in education and includes evidence-based knowledge and clinical skills essential to the physical therapist assistant. The physical therapist assistant curriculum includes the necessary information to allow the student to gain the didactic knowledge, motor skills, and professional behaviors required to meet entry-level expectations of the physical therapist assistant working under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist. The clinical education component is designed to integrate knowledge and professional behavior with patient care. Under the direction and supervision of the clinical instructors, students learn patient care skills as well as the value of lifelong learning.

Physical therapy practice encompasses health promotion, prevention, and rehabilitation for individuals from diverse populations across the lifespan. The Quincy College Physical Therapist Assistant program is committed to this philosophy and will strive to embed the importance of promoting wellness and contemporary practice into a holistic environment. The program is an integral part of the Quincy College community and is consistent with the stated mission of the College.

Cost of the Program

Current cost per semester of PTA (Tuition only) based on the 2023-2024 academic year fee schedule.

Year 1 Fall: 16 credits = $12,572
Year 1 Spring: 16 credits = $12,572
Year 1 Summer: 12 credits (including Clinical Education I) = $5,388
Year 2 Fall: 16 credits = $11,090
Year 2 Spring: 11 credits (including Clinical Education II and III) = $8395
Total cost (not including textbooks, fees, & materials) = $50,017

Have questions or want to apply for the program? Contact:

Christie Amorosino, PT, DPT, Program Director
camorosino@quincycollege.edu
(617) 405-5969

David Huynh, Admissions Associate
david.huynh@quincycollege.edu
(617) 984-1713

Application

  • Applications are open. Click here to apply. Deadline to apply is May 31, 2024.
  • Students applying to the PTA program will be required to attend an Information Session presented by the PTA faculty as part of the application process, either in person or virtual. Sign up for an information session here.
  • Students admitted into the PTA program will be required to attend a mandatory PTA Orientation session on campus with PTA faculty in order to reserve their seat in the program. These will take place on the Plymouth Campus. Please contact Christie Amorosino at camorosino@quincycollege.edu.
  • Graduates of the PTA Program at Quincy College are eligible to take the National PTA Licensure Exam which is administered through the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy. For information on the NPTE- PTA Licensure Exam please refer to www.fsbpt.org. To find out detailed information about applying for licensure in a specific state, please refer to this page.

Acceptance Review Process

PTA Applicants will be scored utilizing a Point System, out of 100 points. Points are based upon: Overall GPA (20), Prerequisite Grades(20), ATI TEAS Examination Score (20), Accuracy and Completeness of Application (10), Previous College Degrees (20), and Certification or Licensure as a Healthcare Provider and/or Previous Healthcare Experience (10). Applicants are also required to have 20 hours of observation in the Physical Therapy field. Please contact the Program Chair or Advising for more information.

Program Details: Begins in the fall semester (Plymouth campus only)
Length of program is 2 years (includes summer courses between year 1 and year 2)

Time Commitment: Students should be available for PTA classes Monday – Friday, 8am – 4pm

Additional core courses might fall outside of the scheduled times for PTA courses.

Clinical schedule hours varies depending on site.

Admissions Pre-requirements

  • Official high school transcript or HiSET/GED records or original diploma (if completed outside the United States, high school transcripts/diplomas must be evaluated by CED (Center for Educational Documentation).
  • ATI TEAS must be completed- Contact Admissions for more information. Minimum overall score for PTA Applicants is 55% (visit atitesting.com to register)
  • BIO 111: General Biology (4 credits) with a grade of C or higher OR BIO 131: Anatomy & Physiology I with a grade of C or higher (for applicants graduating from high school, a high school Biology course with a grade of B or higher)
  • ENG 090: Basic Composition or placement into ENG 101 on the Accuplacer
  • MAT 097 or placement into MAT 107 on the Accuplacer
  • Applicants are required to have 20 hours of observation in the Physical Therapy field.
  • All applicants prior to the application deadline will be required to attend a mandatory PTA Info Session with PTA faculty as part of their application.
  • Accepted students will be required to attend the PTA Program Orientation Meeting to reserve their seat in the class.

 

Have questions or want to apply for the program? Contact:

Christie Amorosino, PT, DPT, Program Director
camorosino@quincycollege.edu
(617) 405-5969

David Huynh, Admissions Associate
david.huynh@quincycollege.edu
(617) 984-1713

TEAS Exam

Test of Essential Academic Skills Exam (TEAS)

The TEAS Exam, or Test of Essential Academic Skills Exam, is a critical exam for students pursuing higher education, especially in healthcare. This exam is required for the PTA Program application. Click here to learn more about the TEAS Exam.

Important things to know before you register for a TEAS Exam

  • Online testing scores will not be accepted. You can take your TEAS Exam at Quincy College. If you take your exam at Quincy College we will be able to access your score. ATI will charge a fee to transfer a score from another testing site.
  • Testing usually occurs on Friday mornings at 9 am unless otherwise noted. There are several dates available for testing throughout the academic year. Find the next TEAS Exam at Quincy College.
  • You should arrive 30 minutes before the test time to allow for check-in. If you arrive after the start time, you will not be allowed to test.
  • Be sure to bring your login and password received from ATI. You must have it to test. 
  • You must have a picture ID with you on the day you test. 
  • You will have 3 ½ hours to take the exam.
  • The test will be taken on the computer.
  • The Physical Therapist Assistant Program requires a minimum score of 55%.
  • TEAS results are available immediately upon completion of the exam.
  • If you want to transfer the results to another school, ATI will charge a fee.
  • Second-Attempt Policy: There is a 30-day wait period before you can test again.
  • The total number of TEAS exam attempts is 3 in one year. Each time you take the TEAS exam, it counts as an attempt even if you decide not to submit your transcript.  This number is reported and updated to each school where you submit your TEAS results.
  • The cost of the TEAS exam is approximately $115. This fee is non-refundable.
  • No electronics or drinks are allowed in the testing area (this includes smartwatches).
  • A pop-up calculator is available for use on the computer, and paper and pencils will be provided.
  • If you need a testing accommodation, contact lpeckham@quincycollege.edu 48 hours before you plan to test.

Note: There are study materials available for purchase on the ATI website, and Quincy College offers 5-week prep courses throughout the year. https://www.quincycollege.edu/program/teas/

 

Registration Information

  1. ​Go to the ATI website: https://www.atitesting.com/teas/register
  2. Click Register Now
  3. Select In-Person testing
  4. Program Type: Select TEAS for Nursing or Allied Health
  5. Location: School Name
  6. State: MA
  7. School: Quincy College
  8. Select a Date and continue the registration process

Apply to the Physical Therapist Assistant

Join the next Surgical Technology Info Session

Have questions or want to apply for the program? Contact:

Christie Amorosino, PT, DPT, Program Director
camorosino@quincycollege.edu
(617) 405-5969

David Huynh, Admissions Associate
david.huynh@quincycollege.edu
(617) 984-1713

Semester Pathway

Year I Fall I – Semester 1

Course Name (credits)Lecture/lab/clinicalContact Hours
BIO 131 Anatomy & Physiology I/Lab (4)3/2/075
PTA 100 Introduction to the PTA (3)3/0/045
PTA 110 PTA Interventions I (4)2/4/090
PTA 113 Critical Application Skills I (1)1/0/015
PTA 240 Pathology for the PTA (3)3/0/045
PTA 115 Medical Terminology for the PTA (1)1/0/015
MAT 107 Statistics (3)3/0/045

Year I Spring I – Semester 2

Course Name (credits)Lecture/lab/clinicalContact Hours
BIO 132 Anatomy and Physiology II / Lab (4)3/2/075
PTA 112 PTA Interventions II (5)2/6/0120
PTA 125 Manual Therapy for the PTA (2)1/2/045
PTA 213 Critical Application Skills II (1)1/0/015
PTA 120 PTA Musculoskeletal Anatomy & Function(4)2/4/090

Year I Summer – Semester 3

Course Name (credits)Lecture/lab/clinicalContact Hours
PTA 270 Clinical Education I (3)0/0/200200
History/Government Core (3)3/0/045
CSI 101, CSA 213 or 227 Computer Science Core (3)3/0/045
ENG 101 English Composition I (3)3/0/045

Year II Fall II – Semester 4

Course Name (credits)Lecture/lab/clinicalContact Hours
ENG 102 English Composition II (3)3/0/045
PTA 210 PTA Interventions III (4)3/2/075
PTA 220 PTA Interventions IV (5)2/4/15105
PSY 216 Growth & Development (3)3/0/045
PTA 260 Critical Application Skills II (1)1/0/015

Year II Spring II – Semester 5

Course Name (credits)Lecture/lab/clinicalContact Hours
PTA 280 Clinical Education II (3)0/0/200200
PTA 290 Clinical Education III (4) 0/0/240240
PTA 224 Career Capstone (1) 1/0/015

Physical Therapist Assistant-Semester-Path

Physical Therapist Assistant Program Essential Functions for Students:

There are several important factors for you to consider when you are determining your future career direction. To be successful in the PTA classroom and in your job following graduation, you should be able to meet all the following expectations:

  1. Attend class approximately 10-25 hours a week or perform 40 hours a week of clinical education, depending on the stage of the program curriculum.
  2. Complete all assignments on time.
  3. Participate in classroom discussions.
  4. Perform or instruct others in the following procedures (learned in class) in a timely manner: transfers, gait training, physical agents, activities of daily living, therapeutic exercises or activities, and data collection procedures.
  5. Use sound judgment and safety precautions (exposure to blood-borne pathogens and/or infectious disease may occur as part of the educational experience). Students are trained in safety/infection control and are expected to follow these guidelines to avoid contracting or transmitting disease.
  6. Meet class standards for successful course completion.
  7. Use critical thinking when making decisions.
  8. Follow standards stated in PTA Program Handbook and the PTA Program Clinical Education Handbook.
  9. Address problems or questions to the appropriate person at the appropriate time.
  10. Maintain classroom, work area, equipment, supplies, personal appearance and hygiene conducive to a professional setting as appropriate.
  11. Behave in a competent, professional manner.

 

Physical requirements for the PTA Program include the need to occasionally, frequently, or continually:

  1. Sit 2-5 hours per day with lecture blocks up to 3 hours.
  2. Stand 1-6 hours with lab time blocks up to 3 hours.
  3. Lift up to 60 pounds.
  4. Push/pull up to 50 pounds of force exerted at waist level.
  5. Squat or stoop.
  6. Use auditory, tactile, and visual senses to assess physiological status of an individual.
  7. Demonstrate good standing and unsupported sitting balance.
  8. Demonstrate good finger dexterity.
  9. Coordinate verbal and manual instructions.
  10. Communicate effectively with a variety of people through written, verbal, and nonverbal methods.
  11. Use hands repetitively.
  12. Shift weight in sitting or standing.
  13. Demonstrate the ability to use a firm grasp while using physical therapy equipment and while performing physical therapy interventions.
  14. Reach above shoulder level.
  15. Kneel, kneel-stand, and half kneel.
  16. Use equipment that emits electrical, ultrasonic, and thermal energy.
  17. Physically move and transfer patients.

Have questions or want to apply for the program? Contact:

Christie Amorosino, PT, DPT, Program Director
camorosino@quincycollege.edu
(617) 405-5969

David Huynh, Admissions Associate
david.huynh@quincycollege.edu
(617) 984-1713

First two-year college in Massachusetts to invest in a SynDaver

The investment of the SynDaver for the Quincy College at Plymouth Campus comes on the heels of a significant Plymouth Campus renovation where the campus expanded its campus footprint by 45,000 square feet including the build-out of state-of-the-art Nursing wing which includes a simulation laboratory space. Quincy College anticipates training staff on the SynDaver over the summer and expects students to be working with the SynDaver in the Fall of 2017 to support and augment their course work.

The SynDaver

The SynDaver Surgical Model, procured by Quincy College is an education-grade synthetic human cadaver complete with all bones, joints, muscles, organs and tendons found in normal human anatomy. This model includes:

  • Over 600 muscle composites and 200 bones
  • Major nervous system and vascular components
  • Complete and functional musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, endocrine and nervous systems

The SynDaver Surgical Model is an ideal alternative to human cadavers often used to demonstrate critical skills of healthcare professions in basic anatomy classes. The tissues are a better representation of live tissue than the dead tissue of a cadaver. Students will have a hands on approach in exploring the above systems, much different than using traditional models.

The Lab

The SynDaver is housed on the Plymouth Campus. The lab space includes cutting edge tools such as Anatomy and Physiology tools, microscopes, models and a dip tank as the Syndaver needs to remain submerged when not in use to avoid the desiccation of the model. The SynDaver is used as an interdisciplinary teaching tool to augment classroom lecture with applications for students studying Phlebotomy, and Physical Therapist Assistant.

Have questions or want to apply for the program? Contact:

Christie Amorosino, PT, DPT, Program Director
camorosino@quincycollege.edu
(617) 405-5969

David Huynh, Admissions Associate
david.huynh@quincycollege.edu
(617) 984-1713

Physical Therapist Assistant Program Frequently Asked Questions

Which campus is the program held on?
The PTA program is exclusively held on the Plymouth Campus.

Are night classes available?
No, the PTA Program at Quincy College is a full time, day program. All courses are held Monday – Friday between 9:00am and 3:00pm.

How many students are accepted into the program?
The PTA Program accepts 12 students per cohort.

When does the program start?
The PTA Program only admits one cohort per year with a September start date.

Can students apply year round and start in September?
The application period for the PTA Program runs from October to May each year.

Can I take any courses before being accepted into the program?
All General Education courses (non-PTA designation) may be taken prior to acceptance into the program.

Will my general education courses transfer from another school?
You will need to meet with an Academic Advisor to determine if your courses will transfer.

You must acquire official college transcripts from the institution you are transferring from. Transcripts must arrive at Quincy College in a sealed envelope in order to be considered official.

Points to keep in mind:

  • All grades must have a final grade of C or better
  • All course(s) must be equivalent Quincy College level courses (please see your advisor for more information)
  • College-level courses must have been completed at a regionally accredited institution in order to be considered for transfer into Quincy College (please see your advisor for more information)

For more information, please visit: https://quincycollege.edu/advising

How long is the program?
The program is 5 semesters comprised of two academic years and summer course work. The summer between the first and second academic year includes a full time clinical education experience.

Can I work while in this program?
The PTA Program is rigorous and demanding. The PTA Program Faculty suggest that you limit your time working while in the program in order to allot yourself enough time to be successful with the academic requirements of the program. There are three full time clinical education experiences in this program that require you to work 40 hours a week and schedules vary (travel time to and from sites may add to these hours). That being said, most of our students do maintain some part time work in our program.

Will my PTA courses count towards a PT degree?
No. PTA Programs are not typically designed to be a stepping stone for PT programs. If you are interested in pursuing a PT education, you should check the admissions requirements for those programs.

Is Financial Aid Available?
Financial aid is available for those who qualify.

For more information please contact the Financial Aid Office or visit: https://quincycollege.edu/tuition/financial-aid/

What is the Transfer Policy?

For consideration into the PTA program at Quincy College from another PT or PTA program, students must be in good academic standing in the external program and meet all new student admission requirements for the Quincy College program. All previous coursework must have been completed within the past year and will be evaluated on an individual basis in order to determine transferability.

Any student who has been dismissed from another PT or PTA program, for either academic, conduct, or professional issues will not be considered for transfer admission.

Prospective students may be required to prove competency via practical and/or written examination at the discretion of the Program Director.

Transfer Procedure

  • Students must notify the Quincy College PTA Program Director in writing of their intent and reason for seeking to transfer.
  • Submit an official transcript from the student’s previous program.
  • Submit course syllabi for all courses the student seeks to transfer.
  • Submit one (1) letter of recommendation from a current faculty member or program administrator from the program the student seeks to transfer from.

Please note: All documents should be submitted to the Admissions Office at Quincy College (1250 Hancock Street Quincy, MA 02169) and decisions will be made on a space available basis.

Have questions or want to apply for the program? Contact:

Christie Amorosino, PT, DPT, Program Director
camorosino@quincycollege.edu
(617) 405-5969

David Huynh, Admissions Associate
david.huynh@quincycollege.edu
(617) 984-1713

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