Physical Therapist Assistant

Admissions Requirements

• Apply at www.westerntc.edu/how-to-apply
• Western’s Admission Coaches are available to help you through the application process. Have questions or need advice? Call 608-785-9200 or email AdmissionsCoach@westerntc.edu.
• Western must comply with a Waiting List Policy when academic programs meet capacity. This policy adheres to Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter TCS10.07.

Additional Requirements

• These Academic Preparedness Requirements must be complete to be admitted to the Physical Therapist Assistant program core courses:
  • High School or GED/HSED Transcript
  • Technical Standards Form
  • Background Check (PDF)
  • Complete General Anatomy and Physiology*
    • *Must be completed with a "C" or better
• If COVID vaccines are required by a clinical partner, you will be notified.
• After admission to the college, you will be considered a Pre-core Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) student. Admission to core classes in the PTA program is based on application date and successful completion of the academic preparedness requirements for the program. Students are able to apply for financial aid and take general education courses to meet academic preparedness requirements as a Pre-core PTA student. There is an estimated wait time of approximately 3-6 terms after admission to the college before starting core courses.

Career Opportunities

Physical Therapist Assistant 

Program Outcomes

• Function under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist in a safe, legal, ethical manner consistent with professional standards and values to ensure the safety of patients, self, and others
• Demonstrate clear and collaborative communication with patients, families, and health care team
• Exhibit behaviors and conduct that optimize inclusive, equitable patient care and patient care environments in alignment with physical therapy practice standards
• Produce documentation to support the delivery of physical therapy services
• Demonstrate critical decision making to implement and modify treatment within a plan of care under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist
• Perform data collection essential for carrying out the plan of care under the direction and supervision of the physical therapist
• Perform technically competent, evidence-informed physical therapy interventions under the direction and supervision of the physical therapist
• Educate patients, families, and other health providers incorporating cultural humility and social determinants of health
• Integrate components of operational and fiscal practices of physical therapy service in a variety of settings
• Implement a self-directed plan for career development, credentialing, service and leadership skills, and lifelong learning in an ever-changing health care environment

Accreditation

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Western is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 608-785-9598 or email berrys@westerntc.edu.

Graduation Employment Stats - 2023, 2024, & 2025

Software & Technology

Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.

If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.

Computer/Laptop Hardware

• Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
• Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
• Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.

Software Needs

• Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools.
• Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
• Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox

For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.

Campus Resources

• Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page.
• The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu or call 608-785-9198.

Need Assistance?

• Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.

Course Information

The Physical Therapist Assistant courses are offered in a 7-week format for the first term only. Most of our courses are in the 15-week format. 

This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern self-service portal for academic planning.

Additional Information

Our Health and Public Safety programs are required to report additional information to prospective students, including certification exams, licensure, program completion rates, etc. You can find this information in the documents below:

• Program Handbook (PDF)
• Clinical Education Manual (PDF)
• Financial Fact Sheet (PDF)

Program Contact

Shari Berry, PT, DPT – Program Chair  
608-785-9598
BerryS@westerntc.edu