Start Your Journey Toward a Hands-On Career in Healthcare
If you're interested in a career that blends healthcare, movement science, and patient care, the Pre-Professional Physical Therapist Assistant program at Barton is a great place to begin. While Barton does not offer a full PTA certification program, we provide the general education coursework and academic foundation required for transfer into an accredited PTA program.
Please note: This degree track does not include clinical training and does not result in a professional credential. It is designed to prepare you for successful transfer into an accredited program.
Barton Benefits
At Barton, our areas of study are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking necessary to thrive in today’s world. Whether you're just beginning your educational journey or advancing your career, we offer flexible and rigorous programs that support your goals.
Why Barton?
- Transfer-Ready Coursework
Complete your general education requirements needed to enter a certified PTA program. - Flexible Learning Options
Choose from online or in-person classes to fit your schedule and learning style. - Affordable Education
Many courses use Open Educational Resources (OER), reducing or eliminating the cost of textbooks. - Academic Prep Only
This program does not include clinical training and does not result in certification—it prepares you to transfer into an accredited PTA program.
Career Outlook
A Rapidly Growing, Well-Paid Healthcare Career
Physical Therapist Assistants are well positioned for strong job opportunities and competitive salaries:
Rapid Job Growth
Employment of PTAs is projected to grow 19% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Strong Demand for PTAs
Healthcare costs and aging populations are driving greater need for rehabilitation services—especially in home health, nursing, and outpatient settings .
Numerous Job Openings
Roughly 27,500 new PTA and aide positions expected annually through 2033, largely from job growth and retirements per the bls.gov.
Geographic & Industry Variety
PTAs find work in a wide range of settings, including:
Home healthcare (some of the highest-paying roles)
Hospitals, outpatient clinics, and nursing homes
Schools, sports clinics, and private practices
Your Next Step
After completing the Pre-Professional Physical Therapy Assistant track at Barton, you’ll be prepared to transfer to a four-year college or university to continue your education and apply to PTA programs.
Become a Cougar
Complete the Admissions checklist of requirements to become a Cougar today.
Barton classes are affordable and accessible, with sessions starting throughout the year.
You have many options to help you accomplish yours goals and we're here to help!
Our curriculum includes essential coursework that prepares students for PTA program prerequisites, such as:
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Biology
- General Psychology
- English Composition
- Public Speaking or Interpersonal Communication
- Medical Terminology (varies by transfer institution)
Degree Maps
Degree Maps
Associate in Science
Physical Therapy Assistant
View the full list of Curriculum Guides (applicable for students admitted prior to Fall 2024) and Degree Maps (applicable for students admitted Fall 2024 and after).
Check out the Course Search for a full listing of courses available.
Discover Career Paths
Discover Career Paths
Visit the What Can I Do with My Major? webpage to find helpful resources on career paths, employers and more!
Admissions
You are only a few quick steps away from becoming a Barton Cougar! The Admissions process is quick, easy and free - we're here to help you through every step of the way. Start your future today!
Student Life
Barton is dedicated to creating a vibrant and engaging student experience! From clubs to student activities, we offer countless opportunities to make the most of your time as a Cougar.