Degree first or right to PTA program?

I am going onto my third year of college and just declared a major in Exercise science. Would it be smart to get a 4 yr degree first and then start the PTA program, or drop everything and go right to start PTA stuff?

If you are a PTA, do you enjoy it?
What places are the ones that are better paying?
As years go on, how do you better your pay?
What is a good starting pay as a new PTA?

Any Advice with the schooling stuff?

I would love to know the answers to these questions as well. I just finished my fourth year of college and am questioning a PTA program or a BS is something health related field like exercise science or nutrition. I have all my general requirements completed, but just can't seem to pick a major to stick with. Originally I was graphic design and then switched to Art Education, but quickly realized that was not for me. Also, my school offers a pre-physical therapy program that I have been questioning to pursue. No matter what I have two years of school whether I finish a degree or go straight to a PTA program. However, I wonder whether I should do pre-therapy program and try for DPT.. which means at least five more years of school all together. Any ideas?

Hi! I know exactly what you are both going through. I am currently a Junior at a university and have chosen to go into Kinesiology with a specialization in Exercise Science. I was very close to dropping out and going to a community college and getting a PTA degree. After thinking hard about it, the best thing for me to do is get that bachelors degree. This will give you time to really think about what path you wish to go towards (like DPT or PTA), and if you decide to become a PTA afterward than the bachelors degree adds extra oomph to your resume. I've decided to get my bachelors and than pursue PTA because I really don't want to spend 4-6 years in physical therapy school, plus I want to be more hands on and less paper work. And hey, if I decide later on I would like to get my DPT, than I have my bachelor's there already and can go and apply. Hope that helps!

I just graduated from college with a degree in exercise science. Right now I'm applying to both PTA and PT schools, if I get into both schools I will make a decision on which one I want to go to when the time comes. If you think about it DPT school is 3 years and PTA school is 2 years, why not spend another year in school and get your DPT.