Skip to main content

 

Physical Therapist Assistant (A.S.) 

Prepares students to sit for the NPTE and become a fully licensed Physical Therapist Assistant.

Fill out this inquiry form for more information

physical-therapy
Follow us on socials to connect and get up to date information on upcoming events and more!

"The connection is what sticks out the most. I love that I have such a good connection with my peers and my professors. This is what has set SNU apart from other universities I have attended."

Talea P.

PTA Student

Program Overview

Southern Nazarene University's Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) Program is designed with you in mind. The 23-month program offers night-time classes twice a week to fit your busy schedule. This format allows you to work or take care of other responsibilities while still pursuing your degree. Graduates will receive a Physical Therapist Assistant Associate of Science degree. The degree program also prepares students to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and pursue their PTA license. The program curriculum includes courses in general education and basic science as well as technical physical therapy coursework. The program places a strong emphasis on integrating clinical education preparation throughout the curriculum. This includes the use of intensive-simulated practice to prepare for direct patient care in three full-time clinical education experiences.

PTA Program Mission Statement 

The Southern Nazarene University Physical Therapist Assistant Program prepares competent, ethical, and self-directed healthcare practitioners who model professional core values. The program is committed to excellence in education and delivers a contemporary curriculum within a Christ-centered community. Graduates will be able to meet the diverse needs of the community by providing high-quality patient care as a physical therapist assistant working under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist.

PTA Program Goals

  1. Graduates will be prepared to work as entry-level physical therapist assistants who model professional core values and integrity while serving their community under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist.

    2. Students and graduates will demonstrate effective interprofessional and intraprofessional collaborative practices as a part of the healthcare team.

    3. The program will provide students with excellent, contemporary, and diverse educational opportunities delivered in a Christ-centered community.

    4. Program faculty will engage in activities to support diversity, equity, and inclusion. 


The Physical Therapist Assistant program at Southern Nazarene University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education, 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program directly, please call 405.491.6630 or email LMartin@snu.edu.

Stat Icon
720
hours of clinical education
Stat Icon
1
start date per year
Stat Icon
Graduate in as few as
23 months
Stat Icon
72
total credit hours
Stat Icon
$375
per credit hour
Stat Icon
Learn 1-2 nights a week on campus

Upcoming Start Date

Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Bethany

Request More Info

Fill out the form below and an enrollment counselor will reach out!

Frequently Asked Questions

HOW CAN I EARN THIS DEGREE WHILE WORKING FULL-TIME OR RAISING A FAMILY?
Earning a degree while working full-time or raising a family has never been more possible. Here’s why adult students are thriving and reaching their goals at SNU:
  • Classes take place one to two nights a week.
  • Students focus on one class at a time to ensure true mastery and prevent burnout.
  • Students study alongside other adults in similar stages of life.
  • Instructors with vast amounts of clinical experience guide students through courses.
  • Textbooks are delivered directly to your door at the beginning of each class.
  • A dedicated student success advisor guides students through the duration of your studies.
WHAT DOES A PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT (PTA) DO?

A physical therapist assistant (PTA) works directly with patients undergoing recovery and rehabilitation. PTAs spend patient care time working on activities such as exercise, ambulation, and functional mobility, while also completing administrative job tasks such as documentation and billing. PTAs work under the supervision of a physical therapist.

WHY SHOULD I GET MY DEGREE IN PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT?

A PTA degree at SNU can be completed in 23 months in the evenings on our Bethany campus. Following completion of the degree, PTAs will sit for the national licensing examination and then begin a fulfilling career impacting patients' lives.

WHO HIRES PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANTS?

PTAs can be hired by hospitals, inpatient rehabilitation facilities, skilled nursing facilities, and stand-alone clinics. There are numerous areas within physical therapy in which PTAs can be employed, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, neurology, acute care, oncology, sports, orthopedics, pelvic health, and many more.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE SALARY OF A PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT?

Currently, the average salary for a PTA is $55,400 in the state of Oklahoma.

WHAT MAKES SNU'S PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT PROGRAM UNIQUE?

SNU's PTA program is the only PTA program in the state that is offered in a true evening format. Our courses are also offered in a modular format, so students only have to focus on one course at a time. In addition to these unique aspects, SNU's PTA program also encourages students to view course content through a faith-based lens and promotes a Christ-like approach with Christian principles embedded throughout the program.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM THE PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT PROGRAM?

Students participating in the PTA program should expect a heavy time commitment. While the courses are only two nights per week, there is a large amount of time outside of class that must be dedicated to studying due to the fast-paced nature of the program. Students often use the lab and other program areas to study and practice important course skills and competencies during the days and on weekends.

HOW MUCH DOES THE PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT DEGREE COST?

The SNU PTA costs $375 per credit hour. There are a total of 48 program hours making total program cost $18,000, not including any general education courses that may be required. Refer to the PTA Financial Fact Sheet for more specific information.

DOES SNU, OR THE PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT PROGRAM OFFER NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES OR JOB PLACEMENT?

The SNU PTA program offers numerous networking opportunities throughout the duration of the program. By employing currently practicing PT and PTA clinicians to serve as course instructors and lab assistants, students are able to network on a continuous basis. Additionally, students receive networking opportunities during the required clinical education components of the program, many of which lead to employment opportunities. The program faculty regularly follows up with students after graduation to determine employment status and can provide assistance and support if needed.

WHY SHOULD I COMPLETE MY PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT DEGREE AT SNU?

Students should complete their PTA degree at SNU, because they will obtain the knowledge and skills necessary to be adequately equipped for patient care following graduation. In addition to the competencies students will acquire while participating in SNU's PTA degree, they will also have the opportunity to learn in a supportive, faith-based environment.

WHAT ARE THE PREREQUISITE COURSES REQUIRED TO ENTER THE SNU PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT PROGRAM?

There are 12 hours of prerequisite coursework that must be completed prior to enrolling in PTA courses. The prerequisite courses are:

  • Composition I
  • Composition II
  • General Psychology
  • Survey of Anatomy & Physiology*

*Coursework for Anatomy and Physiology must encompass both anatomy and physiology for the whole body. For example, Anatomy & Physiology I AND Anatomy & Physiology II must be completed, or one semester of Human Anatomy AND one semester of Human Physiology. Exercise physiology does not fulfill this requirement.

WHAT IS THE "CLINICAL EDUCATION" PORTION OF THE SNU PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT PROGRAM LIKE?

The SNU PTA program requires three separate, full-time clinical education experiences prior to graduation. These clinical education experiences occur in the 2nd year of the program. One 5-week clinical experience occurs in the Spring semester, and one 5-week and one 8-week clinical experience occurs in the Fall semester. These experiences occur during the daytime on a full-time basis. The embedded clinical education experiences allow students to practice and refine the skills and knowledge they have acquired in the classroom to effectively prepare them for the healthcare experience after graduation.

HOW MANY STUDENTS ARE ACCEPTED IN EACH COHORT OF THE PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT PROGRAM AND HOW CAN I RESERVE MY SPOT?

The SNU PTA program accepts a maximum of 28 students per cohort. The following components are considered when determining student admittance into the program: Overall GPA, prerequisite GPA, professional and personal references, and program interview. The minimum overall and prerequisite GPA required to be considered for an interview is a 2.0. Following the interview, applicants will be notified of a decision within 30 days. Please see the PTA Admissions Packet for additional information regarding the application process.

"I really value how the SNU PTA program has amazing staff who not only want to help you on your school journey but also your spiritual journey as well. They have helped me in so many ways that I would not be able to express in words. I have accomplished so many adversities and things I felt like I could never do with the confidence and help from them and my peers."
Allyson M.
PTA Student

Courses

This program is designed to be completed in 23 months and prepare students to become a physical therapist assistant. Students in this program take one class at a time so they can master one subject before moving on to the next.

View the course of study by semester

View the 2023 PTA Student Financial Fact Sheet.

View the Clinical Education Handbook and the PTA Program Policies and Procedures Handbook for additional information.

The Profession of Physical Therapy

This course introduces the history of the PTA Profession and common practice settings. Students will learn and perform fundamental physical therapy assessments, interventions, documentation, and procedures of patient care including transfer training, gait training, and fitting assistive devices. The scope of practice of the PTA and PT, HIPPA, and documentation will be emphasized. Delineation of professional roles and responsibility in physical therapy, development of a team approach to healthcare delivery, and the psychosocial and interpersonal skills needed to function as a healthcare team are presented. Students will have laboratory time to apply, practice, and demonstrate the technical skills taught.

Clinical Anatomy & Musculoskeletal for the PTA 1

This course will explore human motion specific to the musculoskeletal system through the identification of anatomical structures and their relationship to function, normal and abnormal biomechanical principles of joint patterns, and gait. Emphasis will be on the study of musculoskeletal pathologies, the determination of appropriate physical therapy assessment, and a review of related anatomical structures. Laboratory time will be utilized to master skills and techniques including goniometry, manual muscle testing, joint play assessment, and joint mobilization.

Clinical Anatomy & Musculoskeletal for the PTA 2

This course will explore human motion specific to the musculoskeletal system through the identification of anatomical structures and their relationship to function, normal and abnormal biomechanical principles of joint patterns, and gait. Emphasis will be on the study of musculoskeletal pathologies, the determination of appropriate physical therapy assessment, and a review of related anatomical structures. Laboratory time will be utilized to master skills and techniques including goniometry, manual muscle testing, joint play assessment, and joint mobilization.

Clinical Procedures I

This course provides exposure to simulated patients and scenarios for the student to develop clinical problem solving, and practice skills related to semester 1 course content with instructor guidance. This course is designed to demonstrate clinical readiness and will focus on simulated patient assessment and treatment scenarios to prepare students for clinical education, in which they will perform specific assessment techniques and treatment interventions in simulated patient scenarios. In addition, this course includes a weekly online assignment consisting of a class discussion or reflection on related topics.  By the end of the course, the student will appropriately epitomize the role and responsibilities of the physical therapist assistant in a variety of physical therapy settings.

Pathophysiology

This course is a study of how the human body functions and the physiological effects of disease. Building a clear, foundational understanding of normal physiology aids in illuminating how abnormal physiological function leads to human disease. Physiological response to exercise, etiology, signs and symptoms, red flags, diagnosis and prognosis, pharmacological intervention, and implications for physical therapy will be discussed. Case studies will be provided for critical thinking and application of theory to practice for the physical therapist assistant.

 

Physical Agents

This course investigates the anatomy and physiology of the nervous system, with emphasis on the functional relationship between the nervous system and the presentation of pain in the musculoskeletal system. This course prepares the student for safe and effective application of a variety of rehabilitative agents and techniques for patient treatment. Procedures, mechanisms of action, theory, indications, precautions, and contraindications are discussed for the following: electrical stimulation, EMG, biofeedback, diathermy, aquatic therapy, laser, superficial heat, cryotherapy, traction, therapeutic ultrasound, therapeutic massage, mechanical compression, and soft tissue mobilization. The basic physics of electromagnetic radiation and electricity are presented along with skin assessment and wound care using electrotherapy.

 

Therapeutic Exercise

This course is a study of general and specific exercises for conditions commonly treated in physical therapy. Principles will be discussed involving the theory and practical applications of specific therapeutic exercise as preventative treatment and for pathological conditions influencing strength, endurance, neuromuscular control, and flexibility of the human body. Emphasis is placed upon the body’s physiological response to exercise, design and application of exercise, the developmental sequence of exercise, types of exercise, and the use of exercise equipment.

Clinical Procedures II

This course provides exposure to simulated patients and scenarios for the student to demonstrate competent performance of physical therapy procedures and behaviors for the semester level. This course is designed to show clinical readiness by performing skills listed below through the use of simulated patient scenarios. In addition, a weekly online assignment of a group discussion board or reflection on selected topics, emphasizing principles and techniques of basic physical therapy interventions, with emphasis on assessment skills including: identifying red flags, performing joint mobilizations, identifying fundamental physical therapy interventions, and demonstrating values based and professional behaviors. This course will also include several guest lectures, in which the students will reflect upon the information using research. The student will appropriately epitomize the role and responsibilities of the PTA in all physical therapy settings. This course is intended to strengthen clinical problem-solving and provide an opportunity for students to practice skills with instructor guidance and feedback through patient scenarios. Laboratory practice with emphasis on positioning, patient safety, and manual skills. The course included a comprehensive written examination.

Ethics in Physical Therapy

This course is a study of physical therapy ethics, physical therapist assistant roles and responsibilities, and diversity. Delineation of professional roles in physical therapy and the health care team, as well as psychosocial and interpersonal skills needed to function as a health care provider and team member will be discussed. Principles and ethics of patient care, medical documentation, and HIPPA are covered. Activities associated with preparing students for future clinical education will be included. 

 

Clinical Education I

This course provides the student with experiences to apply, integrate, and perform learned clinical skills on patients under continuous supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist in a physical therapy clinical environment. Skills, knowledge, and attitudes learned in all first-year Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) courses will be applied to direct patient care in selected clinical settings over a full-time five-week period. Emphasis is placed on the clinical application and integration of the knowledge and skills learned during the first year of the PTA program, with the objective of students providing quality care with uncomplicated to moderately complex patients, and a moderate degree of supervision and guidance that will vary with the complexity of the patient or the environment. In addition, a weekly group discussion of selected topics, an individual weekly journal, and an in-service. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis.

 

Conditions & Treatments Across the Lifespan

Treatment of pediatric, pelvic health, and geriatric populations will be covered in this course. Theory and clinical application of normal and abnormal physical and cognitive development in the aging process as well as concepts of human growth and development will be covered in this course. Dysfunctions, interventions, common physical therapy treatments, and treatment progression will be the emphasis of content. Cultural diversity of older and younger populations and psychosocial impacts of aging will be discussed through a global perspective.



Cardiopulmonary

This course provides introduction to physical therapy interventions used in the management and prevention of cardiopulmonary conditions. Students will apply knowledge from this course and prior courses to both inpatient and outpatient care settings. Course content will include pulmonary hygiene, breathing techniques, cardiac rehabilitation, and principles of aerobic exercise. Information will be presented in lecture and laboratory settings.

 

Neuroscience I

 This course provides information necessary for the physical therapist assistant to safely and competently treat patients with neurological diagnoses. This course will present the neuroanatomy of the CNS and PNS as it relates to physical therapy treatment, motor control, and motor learning. Neurological dysfunctions, neurological assessments, and the impact of neurological conditions on culturally relevant topics, such as gender, sexuality, communication, and socioeconomic factors will be explored.

 

Neuroscience II

This course is a continuation of Neuroscience I with emphasis on the application of exercise techniques, assessment, and the treatment of long-term disabilities and neurological conditions. This course will introduce common interventions and progressions used in neurological settings. The information, discussion, and treatment considerations for neurologically-based and other debilitating conditions will be applied in lab scenarios, in which the students will monitor the effectiveness of the exercise program.

 

Advanced Physical Therapy Interventions

This course focuses on the utilization of advanced physical therapy assessments and interventions. Topics covered include prosthetics and orthotic devices, rehabilitation techniques for amputations, wound care, and work hardening. Expected administration functions and activities of the physical therapist assistant will also be included.

 

Clinical Education II

This course provides the student with experiences to apply, integrate, and perform learned clinical skills on patients under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist in a physical therapy clinical environment. Skills, knowledge and attitudes learned in semesters 1, 2, and 3 Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) courses will be applied to direct patient care in selected clinical settings over a full-time five week period. Emphasis is placed on the clinical application and integration of the knowledge and skills learned during semesters 1, 2, and 3 of the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program, with the objective of students providing quality care with uncomplicated to complex patients, and a degree of supervision and guidance that will vary with the complexity of the patient or the environment. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis.

Clinical Education III

This course provides the student with experiences to apply, integrate, and perform learned clinical skills on patients under minimal to no supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist in a physical therapy clinical environment. Skills, knowledge, and attitudes learned in all Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) courses will be applied to direct patient care in selected clinical settings over a full-time eight-week period. Emphasis is placed on the clinical application and integration of the knowledge and skills learned during the entire PTA program, with the objective of students providing quality care with uncomplicated to highly complex patients, and minimal to no degree of supervision and guidance that will vary with the complexity of the patient or the environment. In addition, a weekly group discussion of selected topics, an individual weekly journal, and an in-service are required. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis.

 

Meet our SNU Faculty

Dr. Loren Martin, PT, DPT, EdD

Program Director

Dr. Loren Martin joined the faculty of SNU in 2016. She is a two-time alum of SNU having earned her BS in Kinesiology (‘11) and her EdD (‘22). After completing her undergraduate at SNU, she earned her doctor of physical therapy (DPT) from Northwestern University in Chicago. Loren has practiced physical therapy in a variety of settings including outpatient orthopedics, rural hospital, and sports rehabilitation. She continues to practice with emphasis on SNU’s student athletes.

Read MoreDown Red Angle

Dr. Leah Wooten, PT, DPT

Clinical Education Coordinator

Dr. Leah Wooten has served at SNU since January of 2023 in the Physical Therapist Assistant program. She brings real-world experience to this program as a currently practicing physical therapist, specifically in the world of pediatrics. Through her time as a practicing clinician, she works with children of all ages and abilities. She also has clinical experience in other settings, including acute care, school-based services, and orthopedics. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Education in Administration and Leadership (Ed.D.) from SNU.

Read MoreDown Red Angle
"SNU professors care more about you as a person than just a student. They help you with your classes and pray for you and offer support when you are going through a tough time. SNU is set up more as a community that helps you succeed better through your educational journey. "
Chelsea S.
PTA Student

Admission Steps 

All students are encouraged to apply to SNU’s Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program. We review each applicant in our comprehensive, holistic admissions process. Admission into Southern Nazarene University’s PTA program is competitive. Maximum cohort size at this time is planned for 28 students. The required GPA for admission into the program is a minimum GPA of 2.0 in prerequisite courses with a grade of “C” or higher in prerequisite coursework. A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is considered competitive.

Please read the PTA Admissions Packet carefully for full instructions and details. The following criteria must be met for admission to SNU’s Physical Therapist Assistant program. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program.

Step 1: Acceptance to SNU 

All applicants must first apply and be admitted to Southern Nazarene University. This can be completed through the website at degrees.snu.edu/apply.

Step 2: Complete Prerequisite Coursework** 

All prerequisite coursework must be completed prior to beginning the PTA program. A student may be currently enrolled in a prerequisite course at time of application; however, they must show proof of completing the course prior to starting courses in the PTA program with a grade of “C” or better. All prerequisite courses must have been completed within the last 7 years. A student may only take a course 2 times to be counted toward the prerequisite requirements. An average of the grades will be calculated for the admission points system.

  • Composition I (3 credit hours)
  • Composition II (3 credit hours)
  • General Psychology (3 credit hours)
  • Survey of Anatomy and Physiology (3 credit hours)

Step 3: Send transcripts to SNU.

Electronic transcripts can be sent directly to pgsadmissions@snu.edu. You may also request documents to be mailed directly to: SNU PGS Admissions Attn: Transcripts 6729 NW 39th Expressway Bethany, OK 73008.

Step 4: Sign the background check agreement form.

This form can be found in the PTA Admissions Packet and should be emailed to pgsadmissions@snu.edu

Step 5: Two letters of recommendation. 

The recommenders should not send a written letter of recommendation to SNU. They should use this link to submit a recommendation online. One recommendation should be from an employer or educator and one recommendation should be from a non-family member who can attest to the applicant’s professional and organizational skills (e.g. coach, organizational leader).

Step 6: Students will need to attend an in-person information session following conditional acceptance.

Locations

All PTA didactic coursework will be offered in-person at SNU’s main campus in Bethany, OK. Clinical placements will be offered across the United States; it is not guaranteed that a student will receive clinical placement in their state of residence. Students will be responsible for their own transportation and housing while on clinical rotations.

Bethany Campus

6729 NW 39th Expressway,
Bethany, Oklahoma 73008

Become an Instructor or Clinical Instructor

Physical Therapist Assistant students often remember their clinical rotations as the most important component of their education. It provides clarity in learning, deepens their understanding, and transitions them from theory to practice. Your contribution to their success cannot be overstated. Just as you remember people who were pivotal to your success in mastering your profession, so will these students benefit from your hard-earned expertise. Finally, precepting students allows you to informally interview them as a prelude to employment after graduation.  

Thank you for your interest in the Southern Nazarene University Physical Therapist Assistant educational process. Your support is invaluable to us and critical to our students.

Please click here to share some information with us.

Complaint Policy

If a complaint falls outside of due process, complaints regarding the program should be addressed first to the Program Director, Dr. Loren Martin at lmartin@snu.edu.  

Unresolved complaints or complaints about the Program Director should be directed to the Vice President of Professional and Graduate Studies, Dr. Melissa Lewis, mlewis@mail.snu.edu. No retaliation will occur by SNU or the PTA Program due to a complaint being filed.

All complaints will be documented, including the projected outcome, and kept on file at the program facility. All complaints will be stored in a locked filing cabinet located in the program director’s office.

Complaints regarding Accreditation of this program should be addressed to the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education at accreditation@apta.org. This Commission is located at 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100 Alexandria, VA 22305-3085.

Program Resources

Blog Photos (4)

BLOG

Caring with Purpose: The Role of Christian Principles in SNU's PTA Program

View Now >
IMG_9266-1

BLOG

SNU's PTA Program Celebrates National Physical Therapy Month with Service

View Now >
GettyImages-1007078074 (1) (1)

BLOG

Everything You Need to Know about College Transcripts

View Now >
SNU - Financial Aid Guide Cover-1

EBOOK

The Complete Guide to Financial Aid

Read Now >
Time Management Thumbnail - Resources Page

INFOGRAPHIC

Time Management Tips for Adult Students

View Now >
PLA resource

VIDEO

Resources to Help You Study at Home

View Now >

Text With an Enrollment Counselor

Ready to make a difference in people’s lives? Text an enrollment counselor today to see how SNU’s grad counseling degree can get you one step closer to a rewarding career.

Request More Information

Have questions about SNU or need help determining which program is the right fit? Fill out the form and an enrollment counselor will follow-up to answer your questions!

Text With an Enrollment Counselor

Have questions, but want a faster response?  Fill out the form and one of our enrollment counselors will follow-up via text shortly!