Physical Therapist Assistant- is it a waste of time or a good career?

OMG, you are getting ready to make some killer of some money. I have a friend who received his BS in Biology. Then he transfer to Nurse Anesthestist School, received his training for 14 months somewhere in Florida. He makes $130,000 now. Got a job the same day he received his license. He had a choice to work at the Children Hospital, but the liability is much much higher. He was offered $150,000.

He just loves it, he does nothing, he just sit and wait around until they call him for anesthesia.(misspelled)

Go for it.

Hi there,

I'm seriously thinking of a career change, and would like to go to PTA school in Fall 2011 (actually I would like to go sooner, but it's too late for this year). Has anyone here attended school in Mass? There are a few community college progams that are accredited, but I haven't seen them mentioned here. I'd love to hear any opinions anyone has. Thanks!

Kerry in Wilmington, Massachusetts said: Hi there,

I'm seriously thinking of a career change, and would like to go to PTA school in Fall 2011 (actually I would like to go sooner, but it's too late for this year). Has anyone here attended school in Mass? There are a few community college progams that are accredited, but I haven't seen them mentioned here. I'd love to hear any opinions anyone has. Thanks!

Kerry,

here is the list for accredited PTA programs from the APTA site.

www.apta.org/AM/Template.cfm?section=PT_Programs&template=/aptaapps/accreditedschools/acc_schools_map.cfm&process=3&type=PTA

there are 5 in Mass, not bad considering your state is small. California has 5 also but very spread out. Each school has different requirements for graduation. that might keep you busy before you apply.

Good luck.

I recently finshed a 8 month program for Medical Assisting and I really want to go back to school for PTA. I just can't find a school that offers it. I would love to go to Mississppi, Florida, or stay here in Alabama. I'm a people person so I know I would love PTA...please help me!!

Hi,

I'm 51 years old and trying to decide between nursing and PTA. I already have a BS in Science and worked as a freelance writer for many years (making $50-75/hour at it, too). The recession basically gutted work for freelancers. I'm getting writing jobs again, but have decided that I would really like something more stable and reliable. Also, I've always been really interested in the health professions.

I've completed all the pre-reqs for nursing and for PTA so I can start this fall in either program. I have been observing PT at an outpatient clinic. Frankly, physical therapy appeals a LOT more to me than nursing.

Here's my question for all of you...will it be hard to get a PTA job as a 53-year old new grad? Luckily, I don't have any physical issues right now, but am aware that there could be age discrimination. I know I can get a job in nursing.

Thanks!

I'm 56 and finishing my 1st year of a 2 year PTA program. I did a lot of research, and actually left a local LVN program to go to a PTA program. I have friends who are LVN's (LPN in most states) and RN's, and most love their profession but hate their jobs. In contrast, I have only found 1 person who left physical therapy, and almost every one else I have spoken to loves their profession AND their job. I know of a couple of PTA's in their 50's and 1 in their mid 60's who say they have calls about every week with someone wanting them to come to work for them, an offer for a travel contract, or someone wanting them to handle additional cases on home health or for a SNF in their area. I had 2 emails and 2 phone messages this week regarding jobs from people who thought I was graduating in May. I'm a retired engineer, and I chose this for a second career because the PT's I spoke with are much more interested in your ability than your age. Good luck.

Thanks for your comment, Dave. That is encouraging! I've spent a lot of time researching nursing as a profession and there is incredible demand around here for graduates of any age. I wanted to make sure that the same was true for PTAs, too.

Do you know if there are any advancement opportunities for PTAs? Someone mentioned that you might be able to teach if you have a BS Degree (or move into some type of management). I definitely want to work with patients for a long time--just wondering if there are any opportunities for PTAs (outside of getting the DPT).

"Advancement" means different things to different people. If you are looking for a superisory position or teaching opportunity, you need to be aware that this is a profession in which you will still be learning years after you complete training and get your license. That is part of the appeal, to me. Teaching opportunities are few because there are few schools, and the clinical instructors usually are 20 + year PTA's. There are, however, many PTA's who supervise their clinics, or direct programs for SNA's, etc. Many have only a few years experience as a PTA, but have good skills, good rapport with patients, staff, and management, and some have business management experience from a previous career. If advancement means more pay to you, there are good opportunities for as much work as you can "stand" in may areas, and some of the travel programs pay very good rates with 1 or more years experience. To my knowledge, there are only a couple of programs that are available for "transition" from PTA to PT (unlike LPN to RN), and PT is now a doctorate level degree. I would love to be in PT school, but it isn't practical for me. I know some PT students. They are all under 31 years of age. The cost, time it takes for training, etc. make it beyond reason for someone of my age. I think you will find good pay, fulfilling opportunities to help people, and the "rewarding career" most people spend a lifetime looking for. You will find that PT's PTA's love their work and enjoy discussing it with people who are serious about the field. -Suggest you do some research in your area.

I am mainly interested in having opportunties to transition into teaching (after several years of clinical experience, of course). I enjoy working with people a lot, and figure that there is a lot of patient education on a day-by-day basis. I guess I'm hoping that I might eventually be able to teach in other settings as well (without a DPT Degree).

Like you, I've basically decided against getting the DPT, even though I have my pre-reqs completed for it. The program involves a ton of intense studying, not to mention the time and money. My family is super-supportive, too, but I really don't feel it's fair to them, especially when the PTA is such a good option.

Can anybody answer my question? how about entering in a PTA prog . which is
not accredited?what are the disadvantages of it?

kisol, from what I understand when I was doing research, you should definitely go through an accredited program. If you don't it will be a waste of your time and money as most, if not all position require accredited programs. Good luck.

Do you know what is PTA's salary?

Lauren in Joliet, Illinois said: That's a very inspiring story. I'm leaving the corporate world as an ad executive to become a PTA. I'm so excited to start a career that I actually get satisfaction out of. It's hard to give up my past experiences for something completely new but when I hear stories like that, it inspires me to continue reaching for that goal.

I am also in the same situation as you are, I am second in command at a rural water company and am very excited to get into the PTA program in Omaha. Wish you luck.

Hello everyone, I'm new at this so please bear with me. I live in Georgia and I looking into going to Chattaoochee Technical college at their North Metro Campus for the PTA program. Do anyone have any feedbacks about the school or thier curriculum? so far I like what I'm reading about PTA so im very excited to pursue this career.

The PTA program is very new at CTC. You probably wont have a problem getting accepted. I thought that what I wanted to do - I change it to PA.

Good luck with PTA.

hi i m now in india . i m doing mpt in neurology . and i want do job in usa . so can u give me some information

hi is anyone attending TCC in fort worth texas. This fall i will start to take my basics and hopefully next year i will get accepted into the Pta program. I would like to know if there is someone already in the Pta program and how is it.Please get back with any info thanks

beach2desert in Gilbert, Arizona said: Hi Lauren, I really don't get hounded over my decision not to continue with my education. I just let who ever wants to know, my rationale for it. Even with a $15,000 a year raise it would take me over 10 years to break even! I'd be ready to retire! If the BS degree was still available, yes I would have done it. I am very satisfied with the choice I made. Also the hours are very flexible. You can work per diem and choose how much or how little you want to work. I left out-patient because I didn't like the late day hours with my kids. At a skilled nursing facility I am able to go in as early as 6am and be done by 2pm. This year my son started school and I was able to adjust my hours to 8-2pm, so I can put him on the bus and get him off- can't beat that! Good luck with your schooling.

I know you wrote this a while ago but I wanted to ask if there is opportunity to work as a PTA if you actually want to work later hours. Does one have to work part-time or sacrifice making money if you can't work early AM hours? I need to work afternoon and/or evening hours due to some other responsibilities. I don't want to spend the time and money going back to school if my only option is working days (8-5).

Thanks for your help.

sweety215 in Fort Worth, Texas said: hi is anyone attending TCC in fort worth texas. This fall i will start to take my basics and hopefully next year i will get accepted into the Pta program. I would like to know if there is someone already in the Pta program and how is it.Please get back with any info thanks

I'm in the area, but have only called TCC about the program. I'm trying to find a way to go to school there. I'll be on here more often and hope to see a reply to your question. Is TCC accredited? Hope you do well.

Hello All,
This forum is wonderful; everyone seems so encouraging and ambitious to find and pursue their lifework and I like that. I’m in a difficult situation and if you have any advice please share
I’m 40 with a wife, two children (ages 1 & 4) and have the 3rd on the way. I have a BS in Sociology &Criminal Justice, which I haven’t used since ’95 and somewhere along the way I got into material planning and that’s what I currently do for a large company. To make a long story short, I badly need to change careers. I want to do something that’s meaningful, helps others and goes along with my athletic background. I desire to honor the Lord in whatever I do and I work hard, but I know it will be healthier for me, my family and employer in the long term if I get in the right vocation that is a good fit. It’s futile when you have no passion for what you do.
I had thought of Physical Therapy school about 12 yrs ago, but didn’t pursue it for various reasons. Now, as I go to a job I have no passion for, I’m kicking myself everyday for not doing it.
I believe it’s too late to be a PT, so I’ve thought of PTA, a quicker route that requires going to school two years. However, my wife and I are committed to homeschooling our children, which means one of us needs to be home. I don’t know if there’s a way to go to school and provide for my family. I really need to find a way to do it. I feel stuck in a meaningless job going nowhere. Has anyone been in this situation and were you able to find a way to go to school? Winning the lottery would provide a way, but that would be a miracle since I don't play.

to gobigblue in forney texas, yes tcc is accredited i copy this from the TCC website
TCC is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award the associate degree.

The College's educational programs and courses are approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

First of all,it is never to late. I have a 50+yr old class mate who is keeping up just fine if not better than the 20 yr olds( even more so that he does not party or have a young family to divide his study time by)so keep this in mind.
I am just finishing my first year in the program, after having a two year wait and filling that time with pre-req's and such,I LOVE IT.It is/was a struggle. The work load is heavy and the subject matter is tough, especially for fellow class mates with no medical background(like I have)students are dropping out and changing their course to part-time or another field all together.
Sounds grim, but it is no use to sugar coat it...I have a young family and work the weekends. I am in class/clinicals 5 days a week...and study groups 2 nights a week...this leaves no time for family or spouse or full time work. I /we have made sacrifices at home financially and in our personal lives...all for this goal of PTA...my spouse is supportive and encouraging(a MUST)and with the end nearing on my first year and with my instructors encouragement...my class has a new sense of drive...we are a close bunch(you get that way once you are touching each other in very personal ways during lab)...we support each other and share study hints and tips....and we are taking a deep breath and bracing ourselves for next year...and the work load that comes with it.
The point is..you can do it if you really WANT it....full time work is very very hard to maintain during full time school...these are not slacker classes...much reading and practical use of the material is needed.
If your going to do it...I would suggest fully...get your hands on some of the books you know are going to be required in your first semester of your core classes...read them, research on the computer anything you don't understand...any jump you have on a subject is quite valuable...my study group will be doing exactly that this summer , getting ready for our neuro and cardiac fall. GOOD LUCK!

Laurie in Gainesville, Florida said: I know you wrote this a while ago but I wanted to ask if there is opportunity to work as a PTA if you actually want to work later hours. Does one have to work part-time or sacrifice making money if you can't work early AM hours? I need to work afternoon and/or evening hours due to some other responsibilities. I don't want to spend the time and money going back to school if my only option is working days (8-5).

Thanks for your help.

You can always work in an out-patient setting and work into the evenings (that's what I didn't like about that setting). I have also seen per diem therapists come into a skilled nursing facility at 5pm to do a few hours of work after their regular shift elsewhere has ended. Since there is such a demand you could possibly negotiate with a facility to work 11-7, 12-8 etc. if you need 8 hours a day. Good luck.

Hi, I live in San Diego and I'm going to do the PTA program but it seems I'll only be making about $20 or so an hour starting in my area....and I seen people mentioning on here that a lot of places they make $35 starting. So what if I got my degree and decided I wanted to move out of state to get better pay, how would I go about doing that? I wouldn't have to go to school again in the other state right? What would I have to do? Since I know different states have different requirements and such. thanks!

Ron in National City, California said: Hi, I live in San Diego and I'm going to do the PTA program but it seems I'll only be making about $20 or so an hour starting in my area....and I seen people mentioning on here that a lot of places they make $35 starting. So what if I got my degree and decided I wanted to move out of state to get better pay, how would I go about doing that? I wouldn't have to go to school again in the other state right? What would I have to do? Since I know different states have different requirements and such. thanks!

I am also a bit confused about all the different information I've seen on the boards about starting salaries. I was under the assumption that CA was one of the higher paid areas and when I looked into one of the medical traveling companies their advertised pay for PTAs was only about 20 per hour, which was less than all the other fields they listed (nurses, sonographers, radiographers, etc...all of which were at least 24+ per hour).

Does anyone know where the 35 per hour comes from and is that starting or after years of experience? I guess I am trying to figure out if it is realistic to "expect" that kind of money--even with experience.

Everyone on here is great and I appreciate all the help.

L82 in Fountain Valley, California said: Hi Carolyn,
Thank you so much for that advice:) My counselor told me that she has a friend who is a CRNA at Cedar Sinai Hospital in California and works from 6-12 everyday making $300K a year barely doing anything at all. THat's when I said Wow! I better look into it but I didn't want to be discouraged because nursing forums and DH forums here really made me think twice about getting my B.S. degreee and that's what I need first. I don't want to finish school, be in debt and can't find a job or do something I hate for the next how many years while raising a family if I decide to end with a BSN or BS in DH? I do believe in what they say but I don't know how it is here in California. Most of the people who posted the comments are from the East Coast and Mid West and I also don't know which degree they got, but if you search these forums under nurse or Dental Hygiene, you can see what I mean. Well, now it gives me more motivation to go towards getting a BS in nursing. I have to research what school will be good in California that's accelerated so maybe I can finish faster. And Carolyn, it's never too late to go back to school. If you want to be a PA still, they have certificate programs at Stanford University. My friend went there and is making excellent money. If you want to go higher, other schools offer a bachelors & masters for the PA program, too!

Hi L82, I just wanted you to know, I decided to aim for the CRNA degree. I am applying for nursing school. They have an accelerated program within 6 months BS degree from an AS, this is the only reason why I am doing Nursing because I want to do the CRNA. My clients who are Nurses are encouraging me to do it. I was told from my clients who are nurses not to share this with your co-worker Nurses that you are aiming for the CRNA or any higher degree in Nursing, because they don't want you to get ahead. KEEP IT TO YOURSELF. Good Luck, keep in touch. Carolyn

Hannah in Royal Oak, Michigan said: I would suggest PTA over COTA. I work in a SNF and the COTA's just seem way less knowledgeable about the body as a whole.

Plus, the PTA's make better money.

Hi Hannah,

I want to become a PTA and was wondering what the salaries are in Michigan (I live in Fenton, but will probably work in Troy/ Birmingham area). I would prefer to work in outpatient or possibly some kind of contract work, have you worked in either of these capacities before? Do you enjoy working in a SNF?

Hi GoBigBlue,

You will have a lot on your plate by going back to school as a PTA. However, if you can keep in mind that the situation will be fairly short-term (2 years) in exchange for long-term gains, it will help. It might be hard for 2 years, but could then potentially make your family's life easier for the next 25 or so.

Like you, I have a lot of family responsibilities...we also have a small business. My family is super-supportive about my going to PTA school, but we all wanted to see how the situation would mesh with our family. For me, taking the required pre-requisites (Anatomy & Physiology, etc.) was a good 'test' to see how things would work and whether or not the impact on my family was too much. In your case, you might want to consider taking some of pre-requisities online (probably not Anatomy/Physiology, though) so that you can keep your present job while completing them.

I would encourage you to make sure that your wife is completely supportive of your decision to go back to school. Is there any work that she could do from home to help out with the finances while you're in college?

I don't know what schools are in your area, but one of the schools here is structured so that all the classes are held 2-3 days/week (which gives people the opportunity to work part-time). It seems like it would be really tough to work the other days since that leaves no time for studying, but from what I understand, there are a number of people who do so.

Hi, I am 23 years old and recently graduated with my B.S. in Exercise Science and have two national certifications (CSCS, and ACSM CPT) I have been personal training for the last two years and love what I do. I recently got promoted to personal training manager at the sports club I work at last month. However, everyone knows it is hard to make a career out of this profession unless you have your own training business or start your own gym, which is almost impossible right now in this economy. It has only been recently that I have chosen to go back to school for either a DPT or PTA. I am from New Jersey and have been looking at schools in California,(St. Augustine for DPT, and Mesa College for PTA). I was hoping I could get some advice on whether a 23 year old male should go the route of DPT or PTA. Since, I already have a B.S. in Exercise Science has anyone ever heard of someone going back for an associates? I know its completely backwards, but atleast I would have a consistant salary in a year or two, instead of working off commssion being a personal trainer. I know a lot of people on this forum are a lot older than I, or changing professions at a later stage in their life. I don't want to start out on the wrong foot. I know DPT is obviously more demanding (full time student) and I would not have any time to work for the next 2.5-3 years where as PTA I Could start making salary in two years and still have time to be a part time personal trainer and have some sort of life out there in sunny california :) If anyone has any advice or words of wisdom for a young chap I would greatly appreciate it. Thank You

Hi Rebecca,
Thank you for your response. My wife and I have discussed the long-term benefits of this career change as well as the accompanied stress during those two years of school and she is very supportive of the decision. We just need to find a way to do it. Winning the lottery would help, if I played the lottery and got luckyJ Do you have any ideas on home based businesses?

My wife is bilingual in Spanish and English. She occasionally translates financial and HR documents for a company in Houston, but nothing significant. We’ve also thought of her filing taxes for the Hispanics in the area, but that’s only once a year. I thought of becoming a personal trainer for side work, so I’m studying the NASM book and plan to get certified soon.

I too plan to take the pre-req's online. 26 of the 71 hrs the program requires at Tarrant County College can be taken prior to entering the program (once selected), so I will try to complete them within the next 2 yrs. I'm also checking into the possibility that 3 of those 9 pre-req classes can be transferred from my previous degree. I was told I could work part time during the first year of the program. The second year, however, I will not be able to work b/c of the additional clinicals required. This creates a huge dilemma for us because we going to home school our kids and keep them out of day care facilities.

I’m really looking forward to doing this, but one thing I will not do is get into a position where I can’t spend time with my wife or kids. I know it’s only two years, but it’s also two years of my children’s lives I don’t want to miss. I don’t want to go a day without seeing and playing with my precious little ones, so time management will be the key. I foresee many 4am wake ups in order to study, but I’m doing that already, just not consistently. Thanks again and I hope you achieve your goal!

Coopaloop,
Plenty of people in PTA school already have a four-year degree, so you wouldn't be unique if you went back to get an associates.
If I were 23, I'm not sure if I'd go the DPT or PTA route. Two strikes against DPT is the enormous debt it requires to get through school and the relatively low pay for amount of education. On the plus side, though, your projected income path years down the road is much, much higher than if you were a PTA, and you have a lot of time to work off that school debt.
You sound pretty driven and like you'll be successful no matter which route you choose. Good luck.
SM

Hey there bro. I wanted to respond to your question and present a couple of things to consider. First, your ahead of alot of people looking into being a pta's, in that you have your bachelors already. Your also very young, and have alot of time - and your off to a good start. So here is what I would suggest. Look at the following fields and or niches, and spend a week or two researching them in depth. DPT (which you no doubt have already looked into) Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) requires a masters degree with a median salary of $189,000 dollars a year! Thats 10,000 dollars more anually then a family practice physician, and THREE TIMES WHAT A DPT EARNS FOR THE SAME AMOUNT OF SCHOOLING! Next, Physician assistant. Starting wage is about as high as a DPT at the very top of his pay scale. In other words, When a DPT has ten to fifteen years experience, he will reach the wage of a PA fresh out of college! Now, Obviously money is not the only thing to consider - but I think most people want the most bang for the time they invest. I would research these things closely before you decide on a course to move on. Also research the happiness and contentment of each profession. You'll find that PA's are as a whole quite happy with their profession, as well as CRNA's. Just some things to consider. Have a good one. -Jer

Tracy in West Bloomfield, Michigan said: Hi. I am looking at changing careers and I'm 38. I'm looking into being physical therapy assistant. It's a bit over-whelming, since I'm a graphic designer and changing at my age but I want to do something that actually helps people. Is there anyone that went for their associate degree in PTA, a little later in life while working and maintaining a young family? I know this will be very challenging. Can anyone give me some advice or insight?

Also, I'm not the best in math. Is this something that would hinder me from working in this field?

Thanks in advance for any advice or knowledge!!

I was in the restaurant industry in all aspects for 25 years, I am a 39 yo single mother of two kids and am about to graduate as a PTA. I think it would be a great change in careers especially if you enjoy learning about the human body and how it works and functions. Having great customer relations experience is a major plus, you cannot learn that in school.

Good luck with your future endevours!

Thanks for all the insight guys, especially jerhardie. I recently just got from san diego, california where i visited a few schools (mesa college and CCSD). I have been doing so much research on this website for the last few months and the funny story is that when I sat down with an advisor at CCSD he pulled up this website and told me its the best on the internet. I have been tossing around a few career paths such as x ray, PT or PTA, respirtory therapy and weighing many pros and cons to each. I have my B.S. in exercise science already so I know if I chose to go back to school for any of these that I have an upper hand. My passion is working with athletes in the strength and conditioning field but its a career in which you pretty much need to know someone to get a nice salary. Is it possible to get a PTA job with just an exercise science degree? My advisor told me it might be possible because I have experience as strength and conditioning coach and have done internships in the field.

coopaloopb@yahoo.com in Brick, New Jersey said: Thanks for all the insight guys, especially jerhardie. I recently just got from san diego, california where i visited a few schools (mesa college and CCSD). I have been doing so much research on this website for the last few months and the funny story is that when I sat down with an advisor at CCSD he pulled up this website and told me its the best on the internet. I have been tossing around a few career paths such as x ray, PT or PTA, respirtory therapy and weighing many pros and cons to each. I have my B.S. in exercise science already so I know if I chose to go back to school for any of these that I have an upper hand. My passion is working with athletes in the strength and conditioning field but its a career in which you pretty much need to know someone to get a nice salary. Is it possible to get a PTA job with just an exercise science degree? My advisor told me it might be possible because I have experience as strength and conditioning coach and have done internships in the field.

To answer your question about being a PTA with a degree in exercise science, the answer is no, you can't be a PTA without having a degree in PTA. Even a PhD in exercise science won't get you a PTA license.

Sincerely

Dave in Wichita Falls, Texas said: "Advancement" means different things to different people. If you are looking for a superisory position or teaching opportunity, you need to be aware that this is a profession in which you will still be learning years after you complete training and get your license. That is part of the appeal, to me. Teaching opportunities are few because there are few schools, and the clinical instructors usually are 20 + year PTA's. There are, however, many PTA's who supervise their clinics, or direct programs for SNA's, etc. Many have only a few years experience as a PTA, but have good skills, good rapport with patients, staff, and management, and some have business management experience from a previous career. If advancement means more pay to you, there are good opportunities for as much work as you can "stand" in may areas, and some of the travel programs pay very good rates with 1 or more years experience. To my knowledge, there are only a couple of programs that are available for "transition" from PTA to PT (unlike LPN to RN), and PT is now a doctorate level degree. I would love to be in PT school, but it isn't practical for me. I know some PT students. They are all under 31 years of age. The cost, time it takes for training, etc. make it beyond reason for someone of my age. I think you will find good pay, fulfilling opportunities to help people, and the "rewarding career" most people spend a lifetime looking for. You will find that PT's PTA's love their work and enjoy discussing it with people who are serious about the field. -Suggest you do some research in your area.

What specific schools are out there that transition from PTA to PT? I am really interested in doing that if I can.

Hi GoBigBlue,

Your wife might be able to teach Spanish in a private school or homeschool class setting. Alternately, she might be able to tutor students. Both of those types of work might bring in some consistent income. She might also try to see if book publishers need a technical editor with her skills (ie: to make sure books are translated properly). Technical editing can easily be done from home. I wrote computer books/magazine articles for many years. It worked well with homeschooling.

I understand your thoughts about not wanting to give up time with your family. I thought a lot about going into Vet Medicine or PT school but decided against each because I wouldn't see my family for 3-4 years.

Rebecca

Hello all,
This is an interesting discussion board I must say! Well I personally think that anyone who is doubting the PTA career should just go for it. I'm currently working on a bachelor's degree in biology b/c i want to apply for a DPT program, but if I don't get accepted, I will take the PTA route. Even though it's an associate's degree, Physical Therapy in general has been rated one of the most satisfying careers. Is is not as stressful as being a nurse or surgeon etc.

I volunteer at a physical therapy clinic and i enjoy it very much. That is why i plan to stay in this field of work. I plan to apply to PT school again if I don't get accepted, but after being a PTA. I might also just end up teaching PTAs after some years of experience.

Out of curiosity however, does anyone happen live in The Woodlands Tx? I would like to know what kind of living and salary I can expect there being a PTA. It's a very wealthy and nice place to live. I was hoping I could one day live there when I'm married lol

Alaina in Satsuma, Alabama said: I recently finshed a 8 month program for Medical Assisting and I really want to go back to school for PTA. I just can't find a school that offers it. I would love to go to Mississppi, Florida, or stay here in Alabama. I'm a people person so I know I would love PTA...please help me!!

Hi I'm just curious how has your job search been as a medical assistant? I am currently in dental assisting school and just wondering. But same thing here, I rather be in a PTA program right now. But easier said than done.

Marie in Chesapeake, Virginia said: Hi I'm just curious how has your job search been as a medical assistant? I am currently in dental assisting school and just wondering. But same thing here, I rather be in a PTA program right now. But easier said than done.

hey. There is a program fir PTA in Mobile at Bishop State. The deadline is June 1. Maybe next year. Good luck.

Lee

Marie in Chesapeake, Virginia said: Hi I'm just curious how has your job search been as a medical assistant? I am currently in dental assisting school and just wondering. But same thing here, I rather be in a PTA program right now. But easier said than done.

hey. There is a PTA program at Bishop State in Mobile.

Lee

Rebecca in Knoxville, Tennessee said: Hi GoBigBlue,

Your wife might be able to teach Spanish in a private school or homeschool class setting. Alternately, she might be able to tutor students. Both of those types of work might bring in some consistent income. She might also try to see if book publishers need a technical editor with her skills (ie: to make sure books are translated properly). Technical editing can easily be done from home. I wrote computer books/magazine articles for many years. It worked well with homeschooling.

I understand your thoughts about not wanting to give up time with your family. I thought a lot about going into Vet Medicine or PT school but decided against each because I wouldn't see my family for 3-4 years.

Rebecca

Rebecca, Thank you for the wonderful ideas. We’ll definitely look into these.

I have an interview for the PTA program at HCC Coleman College in houston. I was wondering if anyone could fill me in what to expect at this interview? I am very nervous and want this so bad..if anyone has ever done an interview for acceptance in this program please let me know!!

Can someone tell me how much a PTA makes in Milwaukee, WI or just WI? I tried asking this on yahooanswers but all I received was a sarcastic and rude answer. I'm graduating from High school in a couple of days and I'm interested in the PTA career. What's the job like? Do you receive benefits?

www.bls.gov/ ............this site will answer your questions about pay and growth in the US..not just Milwaukee. The PTA field is vast and promising. Good luck.

Almost done in Milwaukee, Wisconsin said: www.bls.gov/ ............this site will answer your questions about pay and growth in the US..not just Milwaukee. The PTA field is vast and promising. Good luck.

Thank you :)

I would like to take the PTA board exam in august but need to fit into a study group, I am looking for a group in south fla area, anyone interested?

dk in Roscoe, Illinois said: ok , so i went to the chiropractor,and was asking about being a PTA and what he thought, he said I would only make $10 to $12 per hr with a associates degree as a PTA. Is that right? Where are some 2yr schools by Sarasota FL and what is the wage?If that wage is right I can't do it, I'm 44 and switching careers,I need to earn a good wage. Im off work now and my wife said go to school ( shes a great catch) ,but I wanna be secure in the future with a job choice

I am a pta student in sarasota fl. The graduating students straight out of school are getting job offers between 22-30hr depending on the place of employment.

where in sarasota are u? Is it keiser univ.I want some info about sarasota PTA prog