An associate degree equips students with basic knowledge of how the human body works. Although the curriculum and requirements vary by school and state, PTA programs include courses in medical sciences, applied kinesiology, anatomy and physiology, principles of physical therapy, neurology and orthopedics. An associate degree program takes about two years and rates as a prerequisite for students seeking a bachelor's degree or higher in this field, according to the Degree Dictionary website.
The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education, or CAPTE, handles accreditation for the more than 400 accredited physical therapist and PTA programs in the United States. The commission also accredits entry-level programs for physical therapists at the master's and doctoral degree levels, and emphasizes the importance of choosing an accredited school. According to CAPTE, attending an accredited program ensures that students receive an education that meets the requirement for entry in the field. Most importantly, the licensing examination makes graduation from an accredited program a prerequisite.
Specific PTA license requirements vary, but in most states, candidates must pass an examination and obtain CPR and first aid certification. States often require licensure candidates to have a minimum number of fieldwork hours; PTAs typically achieve this goal during a clinical internship while still in school.
According to May 2008 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, PTAs earned between $28,580 and $63,830 per year, but command higher salaries when they gain skills and experience in specialized fields such as pediatric, musculoskeletal, neuromuscular and cardiopulmonary physical therapy.