Physical Therapy Aide
- Certificate Program
Description
This residential program is intended to train students for entry-level physical therapy aide positions. It covers topics such as medical terminology, anatomy & physiology, uses of physical therapy, modalities of physical therapy and the administrative role of aides.
Objective
To prepare the student for an entry-level position as a Physical Therapy Aide who can:
- Identify the roles and job duties performed by a typical physical therapist aide and the personal qualities held by successful aides.
- Demonstrate understanding of the importance of and techniques used in good customer service and effective communication between the aide, the physical therapist, and the patient.
- Show understanding of common physical therapy techniques, including the use of heat and cold modalities, and their effects on the body.
- Use appropriate medical terminology related to body systems and physical disorders in order to communicate accurately with patients and colleagues.
- Show understanding of the importance of a safe health care environment, including potential hazards and fall prevention, and the aide’s role in maintaining a clean, safe workplace.
Program Details
Graduates are eligible to take AMCA’s Physical Therapy Technician Certification (PTTC) exam.
A clinical (externship) course is included in this program to provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to real-life situations in a healthcare setting. Students are required to complete the required 80 clinical hours and other related learning activities prior to graduation. Students are not paid for work performed at the clinical site.
At GCHI, our program resources are designed to give you a hands-on learning experience that mirrors real-world clinical settings. Our facilities offer three distinct lab areas, each fully equipped to support specific programs and provide the skills you need for your career. Our resources also include:
- A comprehensive library stocked with textbooks, reference materials, and medical journals
- Conference room with white board to promote group collaborations
- Computer lab with internet access
- Scientific microscopes with access to a wide collection of samples
- Ultrasound machines
- Hospital beds
- The Unetixs Peripheral Vascular System
- Stress test machines
- EKG machines
- Medical Supplies
- Hospital training manikins
- CPR Manikins
- And much more
Course | Course Name | Clock Hours |
PTAide | Physical Therapy Aide Lecture | 84 |
PTAide | Physical Therapy Aide Lab | 12 |
PTCL | Clinical Rotation | 80 |
| Total | 176 |
Job Outlook
2023 Median Pay
Much faster than average growth rate
Job openings projected each year
Jobs held in 2023
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides,
at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physical-therapist-assistants-and-aides.htm (visited November 18, 2024).

Now Enrolling for Spring Semester
Registration Deadline
April 25, 2025
Summer Semester begins May 12, 2025