Do you have to enroll in a PTA program become or could go regular college get your degree?

You don't have to enroll in a PTA program to become a physical therapist assistant. A PTA program is a required step. You can't get a "degree" in the sense of a bachelor's or master's degree that qualifies you to become a PTA. You earn an associate's degree specifically in Physical Therapist Assistant studies from an accredited program. While you might take some prerequisite college courses *before* entering a PTA program, the PTA program itself is the professional training that leads to licensure.