Physical Therapist Assistant: A.A.S.

Associate in Applied Science

CIP CODE: 51.0806

​HEGIS CODE: 5219.00

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Program Overview

The Physical Therapist Assistant (A.A.S.) program at SUNY Broome Community College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Graduates of the program are prepared to sit for the national licensing examination and enter the workforce as competent entry-level clinicians.

As a Physical Therapist Assistant, you will work under the direct supervision of a Physical Therapist in various settings, including hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, home care, subacute rehabilitation centers, school districts, and private practices.

At SUNY Broome, your coursework will provide a strong foundation in both the theoretical and technical skills necessary to deliver high-quality therapeutic interventions for patients with orthopedic, neurological, arthritic, cardiopulmonary, vascular, and integumentary conditions across the lifespan. You will gain hands-on experience through classroom simulations and lab work, followed by real-life clinical internships that will deepen your practical expertise.

This dynamic career offers diverse opportunities for advanced proficiency in areas such as acute care, cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation, geriatrics, neurology, oncology, orthopedics, pediatrics, and wound management. You will have the flexibility to tailor your career path according to your interests and professional goals.

Mission

The SUNY Broome Community College Physical Therapist Assistant Program is committed to the provision of a quality education in an inclusive learning environment. This program will provide the theory, knowledge, clinical experience, problem-solving skills, and strong ethical standards required for competent, safe, entry-level physical therapist assistant practice, in accordance with American Physical Therapy Association and the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) standards. Graduates of this program will develop a value for diversity, equity, inclusion informed physical therapy practice and advocacy, and an appreciation for lifelong learning.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program graduates will:

1. Demonstrate sound theoretical and practical mastery of the principles and practices of physical therapy within the plan of care of the physical therapist and the scope of practice of the physical therapist assistant at an entry level.
2. Demonstrate the provision of safe and competent physical therapy care within the plan of care of the physical therapist and the scope of practice of the physical therapist assistant at an entry level.
3. Demonstrate accurate data collection within the plan of care of the physical therapist and the scope of practice of the physical therapist assistant at an entry level.
4. Apply appropriate clinical problem solving to effectively treat or prevent injury, disability, or disease, within the scope of practice of a physical therapist assistant at an entry level.
5. Practice physical therapy care and patient advocacy with respect and sensitivity to individual difference; integrity and adherence to ethical principles.
6. Demonstrate professional therapeutic communication competency by conveying information in a clear, concise, consistent and professional manner to individuals and groups.
7. Demonstrate the ability to utilize technology as it relates to the provision of safe, effective physical therapy practice.
8. Articulate the importance of continuous learning and professional development throughout their lifetime as a healthcare practitioner.

Accreditation

Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100
Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085
Phone: +1 (800) 999-2782
Email: accreditation@apta.org
Web: www.capteonline.org

Program Contact

Julianne Martin, Program Director and Department Chairperson
Office: Decker Health Science Center, Room 217C
Telephone: +1 (607) 778-5329
E-mail: martinje@sunybroome.edu

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Admission to this program is through the competitive admissions process. Information about the requirements for admission and the competitive admissions process may be found on the Admission for Competitive Health Sciences Programs webpage. Questions may be directed to the Admissions Office at 607-778-5001 or via email at admissions@sunybroome.edu.