4 answers
Kathryn
Student
Fridley, Minnesota
2
Questions
Asked
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I am attending NHCC for exercise science right now. I want to go for Physical Therapy Assistant and I don't know if going for the Athletic Training area is good for that or not. This is what NHCC has to offer for Associates for exercise science. Physical Education AS, Corporate Wellness AS, Personal Training Certificate, Wellness Coach Certificate
#physical-therapist #career #athletic-training #medicine
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4 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4208
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Kathryn,
Response:
The fields of Athletic Training and Physical Therapy Assistance (PTA) are unique career avenues within the healthcare and sports medicine sectors. Although they share some common skills and knowledge, they differ in their roles and educational prerequisites.
Athletic Training is centered around the prevention, evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries and health conditions arising from physical activities and sports. Athletic trainers collaborate with athletes, guiding them in injury prevention, providing immediate care during injuries, and aiding in the recovery process. To become a certified athletic trainer, it usually requires a bachelor's degree in athletic training from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) and passing the Board of Certification exam.
Conversely, a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) operates under the guidance of a physical therapist, assisting patients in recovering from injuries or illnesses that impede their mobility and functionality. PTAs help in executing treatment plans, carrying out exercises with patients, offering therapeutic modalities, and tracking progress. To become a PTA, one must complete an associate degree program in physical therapy assisting from an accredited institution and pass the National Physical Therapy Exam for PTAs.
Although a degree in Athletic Training can equip you with valuable insights into sports-related injuries and rehabilitation methods, it may not directly correspond with the requirements to become a Physical Therapy Assistant. If your ultimate aim is to become a PTA, it would be more advantageous to concentrate on programs that specifically prepare you for this role, like an associate degree in physical therapy assisting.
Hence, if you aspire to become a Physical Therapy Assistant, it is advisable to follow an associate degree program explicitly tailored for this profession instead of choosing Athletic Training.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE): This body accredits athletic training programs in the United States, ensuring they adhere to specific educational standards necessary for certification as an athletic trainer.
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA): The APTA is a professional body representing physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students of physical therapy. They offer information on educational prerequisites and career trajectories in physical therapy.
Board of Certification for Athletic Trainers (BOC): The BOC is tasked with certifying athletic trainers in the United States. They establish the standards for certification exams that individuals must pass to practice as professional athletic trainers.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
Response:
The fields of Athletic Training and Physical Therapy Assistance (PTA) are unique career avenues within the healthcare and sports medicine sectors. Although they share some common skills and knowledge, they differ in their roles and educational prerequisites.
Athletic Training is centered around the prevention, evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries and health conditions arising from physical activities and sports. Athletic trainers collaborate with athletes, guiding them in injury prevention, providing immediate care during injuries, and aiding in the recovery process. To become a certified athletic trainer, it usually requires a bachelor's degree in athletic training from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) and passing the Board of Certification exam.
Conversely, a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) operates under the guidance of a physical therapist, assisting patients in recovering from injuries or illnesses that impede their mobility and functionality. PTAs help in executing treatment plans, carrying out exercises with patients, offering therapeutic modalities, and tracking progress. To become a PTA, one must complete an associate degree program in physical therapy assisting from an accredited institution and pass the National Physical Therapy Exam for PTAs.
Although a degree in Athletic Training can equip you with valuable insights into sports-related injuries and rehabilitation methods, it may not directly correspond with the requirements to become a Physical Therapy Assistant. If your ultimate aim is to become a PTA, it would be more advantageous to concentrate on programs that specifically prepare you for this role, like an associate degree in physical therapy assisting.
Hence, if you aspire to become a Physical Therapy Assistant, it is advisable to follow an associate degree program explicitly tailored for this profession instead of choosing Athletic Training.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE): This body accredits athletic training programs in the United States, ensuring they adhere to specific educational standards necessary for certification as an athletic trainer.
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA): The APTA is a professional body representing physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students of physical therapy. They offer information on educational prerequisites and career trajectories in physical therapy.
Board of Certification for Athletic Trainers (BOC): The BOC is tasked with certifying athletic trainers in the United States. They establish the standards for certification exams that individuals must pass to practice as professional athletic trainers.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4208
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Kathryn,
Answer:
If you're aiming to be a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA), gaining an education in Athletic Training can be a great stepping stone. It offers a robust understanding of sports medicine, injury prevention, and rehabilitation methods. However, it's vital to remember that Athletic Training and being a Physical Therapy Assistant are separate careers with unique practices and educational prerequisites.
Athletic Training revolves around preventing, evaluating, treating, and rehabilitating injuries for those who are physically active, mainly athletes. Athletic Trainers operate under a licensed physician's guidance and team up with other healthcare professionals to deliver all-around care to athletes. Conversely, Physical Therapy Assistants work under the supervision of Physical Therapists to aid patients in recovering from injuries or illnesses by applying therapeutic exercises and treatments.
Although Athletic Training can equip you with useful knowledge and skills that can enhance your career as a Physical Therapy Assistant, it's crucial to ensure the program you select meets the requirements for becoming a PTA. I recommend researching the specific prerequisites and coursework needed for both professions to make a well-informed decision about your education. Moreover, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering in both fields can help you figure out which career path best suits your interests and aspirations.
In essence, while an education in Athletic Training can be advantageous for aspiring Physical Therapy Assistants, understanding the differences between the two professions and making sure your education aligns with your career aspirations is key.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) - The APTA provides details on educational prerequisites, career paths, and resources for those interested in a career as a Physical Therapy Assistant.
National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) - NATA provides a glimpse into the world of Athletic Training, including educational programs, certification prerequisites, and professional growth opportunities.
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) - CAATE accredits Athletic Training programs to ensure they adhere to the set standards for quality education and training in the field.
Stay blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.
Answer:
If you're aiming to be a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA), gaining an education in Athletic Training can be a great stepping stone. It offers a robust understanding of sports medicine, injury prevention, and rehabilitation methods. However, it's vital to remember that Athletic Training and being a Physical Therapy Assistant are separate careers with unique practices and educational prerequisites.
Athletic Training revolves around preventing, evaluating, treating, and rehabilitating injuries for those who are physically active, mainly athletes. Athletic Trainers operate under a licensed physician's guidance and team up with other healthcare professionals to deliver all-around care to athletes. Conversely, Physical Therapy Assistants work under the supervision of Physical Therapists to aid patients in recovering from injuries or illnesses by applying therapeutic exercises and treatments.
Although Athletic Training can equip you with useful knowledge and skills that can enhance your career as a Physical Therapy Assistant, it's crucial to ensure the program you select meets the requirements for becoming a PTA. I recommend researching the specific prerequisites and coursework needed for both professions to make a well-informed decision about your education. Moreover, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering in both fields can help you figure out which career path best suits your interests and aspirations.
In essence, while an education in Athletic Training can be advantageous for aspiring Physical Therapy Assistants, understanding the differences between the two professions and making sure your education aligns with your career aspirations is key.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) - The APTA provides details on educational prerequisites, career paths, and resources for those interested in a career as a Physical Therapy Assistant.
National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) - NATA provides a glimpse into the world of Athletic Training, including educational programs, certification prerequisites, and professional growth opportunities.
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) - CAATE accredits Athletic Training programs to ensure they adhere to the set standards for quality education and training in the field.
Stay blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.
Thulasi Ranganathan
Business Ops Mgr
3
Answers
Cary, North Carolina
Updated
Thulasi’s Answer
No matter what option you select its going to help pursue Physical Therapy assistance -- If I have to pick Physical Education and Personal training programs may have an edge.
While thinking of what you want to become -- Think of what will be the future of Physical Therapy/ Exercise science in this new innovative-Technology era - Sustainable career selection in this ever changing time is the key.
Hths - Good Luck.
Don Yakulis
VP, Business and Commercial Operations
4
Answers
San Ramon, California
Updated
Don’s Answer
Hi Katherine - as a former physical therapist with a Masters from Washington University, St. Louis and Athletic Trainer, any of the programs you reference would be applicable to becoming a physical therapy assistant. I would, however, think about a longer term goal of a path to become a physical therapist which I believe you would find very rewarding. Obtaining your AS and transferring to a school which has a physical therapy degree would be another path to potentially pursue. Set your goals high. I'd also suggest, if you are not volunteering in as a physical therapy assistant or aide that you do so to see first hand if you prefer the role of physical therapy assistant, physical therapist or other occupation. Volunteering in a hospital is a great way to experience these occupations as well as others including physician, nurse, occupational therapist, etc. Best of luck to you.