Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at West Valley College is a two-year Associate in Science degree that trains students to assist licensed physical therapists in providing rehabilitative care. The program is CAPTE-accredited, meaning it meets national standards for physical therapy education. Students learn through a mix of classroom theory, lab practice, and clinical experiences.

WVC PTA program projects a cohort of 30 students per year, with an anticipated retention rate that results in approximately 25 students completing the program annually.

To prepare competent, ethical, and entry-level Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) who can provide safe and effective care under the supervision of licensed Physical Therapists, meeting workforce needs in the community and supporting high-quality patient outcomes.

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at WVC College is a two-year, selective-admission Associate in Science degree that combines general education, supporting coursework, PTA-specific theoretical and laboratory classes, and clinical practicum experiences.

The WVC Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program curriculum has not yet been developed. We are in the process of hiring a full-time Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), who will begin in August 2026, to lead the development of the program. The curriculum will be modeled after the Ohlone College PTA program, which is CAPTE-accredited and provides a proven framework for combining classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical experiences. This approach will ensure that the WVC program meets accreditation standards, prepares students for entry-level PTA employment, and aligns with regional workforce needs.

• College: Ohlone College

• Program: Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

• Contact: Robert J. Gabriel, Ph.D., M.B.A., P.T., and his Vice President of Instruction (VPI)

• Outcome of Contact: Dr. Gabriel and his VPI are in full support of WVC developing a PTA program. They have agreed to serve as the school sponsor during our first year of accreditation in 2028. In the event that WVC does not obtain accreditation, Ohlone College has agreed to take on our first cohort of students.