What kind of salary can I expect as a physical therapy technician/aide?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average physical therapy technician/aide salary is $31,410, with the highest 10% earning more than $41,320. This is especially true in high demands states like California, Texas, New York, and New Jersey.

What is the difference between a physical therapy aide and an assistant?

The Southern California Health Institute (SOCHi) states that the main difference between these two positions (physical therapy assistant vs. physical therapy aide) is the level of treatment provided to patients. A physical therapy aide does not directly engage in patient treatment but instead supports the physical therapist and assistant by performing clerical duties and preparing equipment, among other tasks.

On the other hand, the physical therapy assistant has a more hands-on role, helping implement patient treatment plans under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist—requiring a higher level of education and commanding a higher salary than aides.

What is a physical therapy technician/aide?

Physical therapy aides are any support personnel who perform designated tasks related to the operation of the physical therapy service. In fact, WebPT.com states that these tasks are activities that do not require the clinical decision-making of the physical therapist or the clinical problem-solving of the physical therapist assistant.

What do physical therapy technicians/aides do?

According to the American Medical Certification Association (AMCA), a physical therapy technician/aide works under the direction and supervision of physical therapists. They help patients who are recovering from injuries and illnesses regain movement and manage pain with tasks that are indirectly related to patient care, such as cleaning and setting up the treatment area, moving patients and performing clerical duties.

Physical therapy technicians/aides typically do the following:

• Clean treatment areas and set up therapy equipment
• Wash linens
• Help patients move to or from a therapy area
• Do clerical tasks, such as answering phones and scheduling patients
• Gait training
• Prepare patient transport

Does this course prepare you for a certification?

Yes. The course prepares students for the Physical Therapy Technician/Aide Certification (PTTC) through American Medical Certification Association AMCA.

When can I start the course?

This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.

How long does it take to complete this course?

This course is self-paced and open enrollment, so you can start when you want and finish at your own pace. When you register, you'll receive nine (9) months to complete the course.

What if I don't have enough time to complete my course within the time frame provided?

The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.

What kind of support will I receive?

Our courses are designed to accommodate various learning preferences. Depending on the course structure, you may get different forms of support. Self-paced courses are designed to be user-friendly and independent, minimizing the need for external support. In courses with instructors, our direct platform support feature includes opportunities for questions, discussions, and remediation, with email and phone support available for select courses. Our student advising team is available to guide you on program requirements and administrative requests, but they do not provide assistance with course content. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary support for success, whether it's through self-paced exploration, direct communication, or guidance from our advising team.

What happens when I complete the course?

Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion.

Am I guaranteed a job?

This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.

Can I get financial assistance?

This course is non-credit, so it does not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll, if they meet certain requirements. Financing is available from select schools. Learn more about financial assistance.

How can I get more information about this course?

If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-877-221-5151 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us" form.