Physical Therapy Aide: Online Certificate Program

A physical therapy aide working with a client

This program is a great fit for:

Individuals interested in a career in healthcare

Recent high school graduates

Current healthcare workers looking to upskill or grow their career

Gain in-demand skills and increase your earning power in the growing field of physical therapy. If you have a passion for supporting people as they overcome physical challenges, this could be the right career for you! Earn your certificate and start working in as little as 18 weeks.

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Course length

269 hours

Weekly time commitment icon

Weekly time commitment

16 hours

Tuition icon

Tuition

$4,000

Physical therapy aide and administration specialists work hand-in-hand with physical therapists to provide support to patients recovering from injuries, illnesses or surgeries. You’ll be responsible for preparing treatment areas, setting up equipment and performing routine administrative tasks. Additionally, you’ll assist patients with exercises, ensuring that they are comfortable and safe as they take each small step on the path to recovery.

Pursuing a career as a physical therapy aide and administration specialist can be incredibly rewarding. You will get to work with patients one-on-one and see their progress over time. Especially in a rehabilitation setting, people can get discouraged by their injuries. As a key member of each patient’s recovery process, you will be able to encourage and champion them as they make progress and improve over time.

Graduates of this program will be eligible to take the Physical Therapy Technician/Aide Certification (PTTC) exam sponsored by the American Medical Certification Association (AMCA) and the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) exam sponsored by the National Healthcareer Association.

Why Choose Siena Heights University?

Siena Heights University’s Workforce Development certificate programs were built to meet the needs of modern-day students. You can start learning as soon as today and be on the path to a fulfilling new career in just a few weeks or months.

Online and self-paced coursework

Affordable tuition

Fulfilling, flexible job opportunities

Industry-leading credentials

Clinicals included (if necessary)

Certificates matched to industry demands

Job growth for physical therapy assistants and aides is expected at 24 percent between now and 2031, far exceeding the national average for all occupations at 5 percent.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Is this Physical Therapy Aide Certificate Program right for me? 

  • Are you a compassionate person who is capable of helping people who are dealing with physical pain?  
  • Are you detail-oriented, organized and able to follow instructions carefully?  
  • Are you dexterous and comfortable working with your hands to assist in providing treatment to patients?  
  • Do you have strong interpersonal communication skills?  
  • Do you have the physical stamina needed to be on your feet frequently? 

Career Paths

Physical Therapy Aide
Physical Therapy Assistant (Additional education required)
Physical Therapist (Additional education required)
Medical Laboratory Technician
Certified Nursing Assistant