The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) prepares students for success in one of today’s most in-demand healthcare professions. Offering exceptional value and affordability, the two-year program equips students to enter the field career-ready—where physical therapist assistants earn an average salary of about $66,000 annually and play a vital role in helping patients regain strength, mobility, and independence. The program is proud to maintain a 100% employment rate, with graduates consistently stepping into positions soon after licensure.
“Our PTA program is truly special because of the support students receive every step of the way,” said Susan DeSmith, PT, DPT, Director of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at NWFSC. “Students’ progress through the program as part of a supportive learning cohort, and each lab is led by both a licensed physical therapist and a physical therapist assistant. This dual perspective gives them the confidence, clinical skills, and professionalism they need to succeed from day one on the job.”
In addition to classroom and lab instruction, students gain hands-on experience through clinical practice rotations at healthcare facilities across the local community. These placements allow students to apply their skills in real-world settings, develop professional relationships, and often secure job offers before graduation.
“At Northwest Florida State College, we are equipping students to turn their talents into meaningful contributions—where passion meets purpose,” said Northwest Florida State College President Mel Ponder. “Our PTA program reflects our mission to transform lives, preparing graduates for secure jobs in a high-demand field while also making a lasting difference in the health and well-being of the individuals and communities they serve.”
The program also encourages graduates to continue advancing professionally after earning their associate degree. Many PTAs go on to earn advanced clinical certifications, specialize in areas such as orthopedics, pediatrics, or wound care, or advance into leadership roles as clinic directors or rehabilitation managers. Graduates can also continue their education through NWFSC’s fully online Bachelor of Applied Science in Management & Supervision – Health Care Management program, positioning them for leadership opportunities in the healthcare industry.
Applications for the PTA technical program are now open through October 20. Interested students must first apply for general admission to Northwest Florida State College and then complete the selective admission application for the PTA program. Applicants are encouraged to meet with student services early to plan prerequisites and ensure they are ready to apply to one of NWFSC’s most impactful healthcare programs. For full program details, visit www.nwfsc.edu/pta.
Those interested in learning more about the profession—or the differences between becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant and a Physical Therapist—are invited to contact the program directly at pta@nwfsc.edu.
