PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT
Mostly ONLINE commuter-friendly, hybrid program!听
The PTA program at 黑料正能量 is a hybrid design with theory classes ONLINE and lab classes in person on campus two consecutive days per week in the fall and spring semesters. 听
The educational pathway includes two semesters of pre-requisite and general education coursework followed by four semesters of PTA program and general education courses for a total of 6 semesters. Students will participate in two听full-time, eight-week clinical education practicums in the final year of the program. The clinical experiences take place at selected healthcare facilities in Mendocino, Lake, Sonoma, Napa, and Humboldt counties, and other locations as requested.听
PTA program graduates earn an Associate of Science degree in PTA and qualify to take the National Physical Therapy Examination for PTAs.
For more information email PTA@mendocino.edu.
What is a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)?
PTAs provide physical therapy services under the direction and supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist (PT). Physical Therapy is a dynamic profession full of variety, activity and human interaction.听PTs and PTAs are movement experts who treat a variety of patients to help relieve pain, increase strength and coordination, prevent disability, and restore the basic movements that we take for granted every day by improving balance, posture, strength, flexibility and more.
PTAs are an integral part of the healthcare team and work in a variety of settings including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health,听nursing听homes, schools, and sports facilities.
Information Meetings
Attend one of our PTA program Info Night meetings via Zoom to learn about program prerequisites, the enrollment process, academic and clinical coursework, and more. RSVP to PTA@mendocino.edu.
Spring 2026 Info Night: (click to join)
Program Policies听
PTA Program 2-year Outcome Data
| Outcome Measure | 2023 | 2024 | 2023-2024 2-year average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graduation Rate | 听100% | 听95% | 97.5% |
| 1st Time Pass Rate NPTE-PTA | 听 73% | 听56% | 65% |
| Ultimate Pass Rate NPTE-PTA | 听 93% | 听72% | 83% |
| Employment Rate | 听100% | 100% | 100% |
Accreditation status
The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at 黑料正能量 is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email:听accreditation@apta.org; website:听. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 707-467-1057听or email听PTA@mendocino.edu.听
Comments and Concerns
Complaints regarding the program or the program graduates should be first addressed with the PTA Program Director, Sara Bogner, MS DPT, via email听sbogner@mendocino.edu听or phone (707) 467-1062. Unresolved complaints or complaints about the Program Director should be directed to Christy Smith, Dean of Career Education via email听csmith@mendocino.edu听or phone (707) 468-3131. No retaliation will occur by either the program or the college due to a complaint being filed.听听All complaints will be documented, including the projected outcome, and kept on file at the program facility. Complaints regarding accreditation of this program should be addressed to the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) located at 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia, 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email:听accreditation@apta.org; website:听.
Mission Statement
The 黑料正能量 Physical Therapist Assistant Program provides a comprehensive educational experience to prepare a diverse student population to practice as entry-level Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) able to work under the direction and supervision of a Physical Therapist. High quality and innovative instruction and individual attention in an inclusive and accessible learning environment enables students to achieve their educational goals. Graduates will serve the community by providing competent, ethical and compassionate healthcare in contemporary physical therapy practice while understanding the value of evidence-based practice and lifelong learning.
Here's a short video that helps define our Mission:
Program Goals
Goal 1. Prepares graduates for positions as competent, entry-level Physical Therapist Assistants able to work under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist.
Goal 2. Program faculty will provide an inclusive and accessible learning environment and a curriculum consistent with contemporary physical therapy practice, and feedback from program stakeholders.
Goal 3. Promote the importance of continuing personal and professional development through life-long learning opportunities and membership in professional organizations.
Goal 4. PTA Program graduates will appropriately express effective verbal, nonverbal, and written communication skills in a culturally competent manner with patients, family members and other healthcare providers.
Here is a short video further defining the goals of the PTA Program:
Program Objectives
Graduates of the Physical Therapist Assistant program will be able to:
Objective 1. Work under the supervision of a physical therapist in an ethical, legal, and competent manner.
Objective 2. Demonstrate the ability to promote optimal outcomes for patients by competently performing assessment techniques and treatment interventions from within the physical therapist鈥檚 plan of care.
Objective 3. Recognize the relationship between concepts learned from liberal arts and basic science coursework and physical therapy knowledge and skills.
Objective 4. Demonstrate effective oral, written, and nonverbal communication in a culturally competent manner with patients and their families, colleagues, and other healthcare providers.
Objective 5. Demonstrate a commitment to professional growth and lifelong learning.
Sample Course Sequences
Students who began the PTA program in the fall of 2025, please refer to the following 6 semester sequence which includes 2 prerequisite semesters followed by 4 PTA program semesters. General education courses are spaced throughout all 6 semesters. If students have already completed GE coursework at 黑料正能量 or another college, please make an appointment with a 黑料正能量 counselor to make an individualized plan.
*Prerequisite courses are listed in bold
Printable versions:
Please note that beginning Fall 2026 there will be some slight changes in the program curriculum/sequence that are reflected in the following:
| Course Title | Semester Units |
| *BIO 230 鈥 Human Anatomy 鈥 GE Area 5 | 5 |
| CHM 200 - Introduction to Chemistry | 4 |
| *KIN 200 鈥 Introduction to Kinesiology | 3 |
| *PTA 100 鈥 Introduction to Physical Therapy听 听听 听 听 听 听 听 听听 | 1 |
| Arts and Humanities 鈥 GE Area 3 | 3 |
| Total | 16 |
| Course Title | Semester Units |
| *BIO 231 鈥 Human Physiology | 5 |
| *ENGL C1000 鈥 Academic Reading and Writing 鈥 GE Area 1A | 4 |
| Mathematics Concepts and Quantitative Reasoning 鈥 GE Area 2 | 3 |
| Social and Behavioral Science 鈥 GE Area 4听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 | 3 |
| Total | 15 |
| Course Title | Semester Units |
| PTA 101 鈥 Physical Therapy Practice for the PTA | 2 |
| PTA 102 鈥 Pathology | 3 |
| PTA 103 鈥 Patient Care Skills Theory | 2 |
| PTA 103L 鈥 Patient Care Skills Lab | 1.5 |
| PTA 104 鈥 Clinical Kinesiology Theory | 2 |
| PTA 104L 鈥 Clinical Kinesiology Lab | 1.5 |
| Oral Communication and Critical Thinking 鈥 GE Area 1B | 3 |
| Total | 15 |
| Course Title | Semester Units |
| PTA 105 鈥 Therapeutic Exercise Theory | 2 |
| PTA 105L 鈥 Therapeutic Exercise Lab | 1 |
| PTA 106 鈥 Therapeutic Agents Theory | 2 |
| PTA 106L 鈥 Therapeutic Agents Lab | 1 |
| PTA 118听鈥 Clinical Development | 3 |
| American Institutions 鈥 GE Area 4A | 3 |
| Studies in Culture 鈥 Institutional Requirement | 3 |
| Total | 15 |
| Course Title | Semester Units |
| PTA 107 鈥 Orthopedic Management Theory | 2 |
| PTA 107L 鈥 Orthopedic Management Lab | 1 |
| PTA 108 鈥 Neurology and Development Theory | 2 |
| PTA 108L 鈥 Neurology and Development Lab | 1 |
| PTA 121 鈥 Clinical Practicum 1 | 6 |
| Wellness 鈥 Institutional Requirement | 3 |
| Total | 15 |
| Course Title | Semester Units |
| PTA 109 鈥 Neurologic Management Theory | 2 |
| PTA 109L 鈥 Neurologic Management Lab | 1 |
| PTA 110 鈥 Advanced Procedures Theory | 2 |
| PTA 听110L 鈥 Advanced Procedures Lab | 1 |
| PTA 111 鈥 Professional Integration | 2 |
| PTA 122 鈥 Clinical Practicum 2 | 6 |
| Ethnic Studies 鈥 GE Area 6 | 3 |
| Total | 17 |
NEW Required Prerequisite Courses**
BIO 230 鈥 Human Anatomy (GE Area 5)
This course will cover the structural organization of the human body including human cytology and cellular organization, fundamental tissues and organ systems, and appropriate laboratory study of basic human anatomy.
BIO 231 鈥 Human Physiology (GE Area 5)
This course will cover the study of human organ systems and the associated physiological principles with appropriate practical experimentation in the laboratory.
KIN 200 鈥 Introduction to Kinesiology
This course will introduce the historical, philosophical, sociological, psychological, and scientific foundations of the Kinesiology field. The course will also include an overview of careers, fields of study and requirements in Kinesiology and allied health disciplines. Issues, challenges, and current/future trends will also be addressed.
PTA 100 鈥 Introduction to Physical Therapy
This course will introduce students to careers related to the field of physical therapy. It will outline job descriptions, educational background, labor market and practice settings for the different jobs related to physical therapy.
ENGL C1000 鈥 Academic Reading and Writing (GE Area 1A)
This course will fulfill the requirements of the first semester of freshman composition at the university level. All sections include readings from diverse voices and a variety of writing assignments. Students will use critical reading and thinking strategies to write primarily expository and argumentative texts that respond to a variety of rhetorical situations and contexts and incorporate college-level research.
**Catalog Rights: Graduation requirements are determined according to the catalog in effect at the time of first enrollment. Enrollment must be in a credit course and must be continuous (at least one course is taken each academic year) for graduation requirements to be taken from the catalog in effect at the time of first enrollment. If you started MC before the prerequisites changed, you are eligible for acceptance to the PTA Program using the previous set of prerequisites. For more detailed information, talk with an academic counselor or read .
PTA Program Semester 1 Courses
**Does not include any necessary GE courses (see below for GE course information)
PTA 101 鈥 Physical Therapy Practice for the PTA
This course will introduce the students to the profession of Physical Therapist Assistant by covering the history, laws and ethics of the profession. Introduction to professional/medical documentation and quality assurance issues will be presented. Students will also study communication techniques, interpersonal relationships and psychosocial considerations in healthcare.
PTA 102 鈥 Pathology (will move to Semester 2 beginning Fall 2026)
This course will introduce the pathophysiology of all major organ systems of the body. The etiology, signs, symptoms, diagnosis, prognosis and interventions related to common diseases and disorders seen in the physical therapy setting will be covered.
PTA 103 鈥 Patient Care Skills Theory
The course will introduce students to the theory of basic patient care skills performed by the Physical Therapist Assistant including positioning, monitoring vital signs, infection control techniques, transfer training and gait training. Students will also be introduced to the assessment and treatment processes of the Physical Therapist Assistant.
PTA 103L 鈥 Patient Care Skills Lab
This course will provide practical training in basic care skills performed by the Physical Therapist Assistant including position, monitoring vital signs, infection control techniques, transfer training and gait training. Students will also begin assessment and intervention techniques for the Physical Therapist Assistant in this laboratory course.
PTA 104 鈥 Clinical Kinesiology Theory
This course will cover kinesiology and anatomy of the musculoskeletal and neuromuscular systems. Emphasis will be on musculoskeletal anatomy and physiology including arthrokinematics, static and dynamic movement systems and associated clinical applications. Principles of goniometry and manual muscle testing will also be introduced.
PTA 104L 鈥 Clinical Kinesiology Lab
This course will consist of the laboratory component of PTA 104 Clinical Kinesiology. Students will apply kinesiology and biomechanics principles of PTA 104 Clinical Kinesiology in a practical setting. Assessment of joint range of motion, muscle strength, posture and gait will be performed. Surface palpation skills will also be developed in this laboratory course.
PTA Program Semester 2 Courses
**Does not include any necessary GE courses
PTA 105 鈥 Therapeutic Exercise Theory
This course will cover the use of exercise as a preventative and rehabilitative modality for the treatment of pathological conditions. Emphasis is placed on the physiologic effects of exercise as well as the design and application of exercise programs to improve strength, flexibility, posture and balance. This course will also address exercise specific to cardiac rehabilitation, aquatic physical therapy and work hardening.
PTA 105L 鈥 Therapeutic Exercise Lab
This course will provide the practical training for the use of exercise as a preventative and rehabilitative modality for the treatment of pathological conditions. It is the laboratory component of PTA 105 Therapeutic Exercise Theory and will allow for application of concepts taught in that course. Therapeutic exercise principles will be illustrated through practice for strength, flexibility, posture and balance. More specific programs of therapeutic exercise for cardiac rehabilitation, aquatic therapy and work hardening will also be covered.
PTA 106 鈥 Therapeutic Agents Theory
This course will cover the use of physical agents in the treatment of common conditions seen in the physical therapy setting. Various thermal, mechanical and electromagnetic agents will be presented with corresponding indications and contraindications. Evidence based rationale for use of physical agents will also be addressed.
PTA 106L 鈥 Therapeutic Agents Lab
This course will instruct students in the safe and effective use of physical agents in the treatment of common conditions seen in the physical therapy setting. Students will learn correct set up and application of thermal, mechanical and electromagnetic agents. This course is the laboratory course that corresponds with PTA 106 Physical Agents Theory.
PTA 118 鈥 Clinical Development
This course will provide students with the opportunity to observe patient treatment on campus performed by faculty. Students will observe treatment during scheduled class time on campus as well as develop professional skills for clinical education experiences during semesters 3 and 4. This course will also familiarize students with the Clinical Performance Instrument to prepare them for future clinical education experiences in the program.
PTA Program Semester 3 Courses
**Does not include any necessary GE courses
PTA 107 鈥 Orthopedic Management Theory
This course will focus on dysfunction, disease and trauma of the musculoskeletal system. Concepts of tissue healing, signs and symptoms of orthopedic dysfunctions, surgical interventions and physical therapy interventions will be addressed. Students will be expected to integrate knowledge and skills from previous PTA coursework to the orthopedic patient.
PTA 107L 鈥 Orthopedic Management Lab
This course will provide the practical training for assessment and treatment of the orthopedic conditions seen in the physical therapy setting. It is the laboratory component of PTA 107 Orthopedic Management and will focus on application of concepts taught in that course. Treatment strategies for disorders of the spine, upper extremity and lower extremity will be covered. Students will be expected to integrate knowledge and skills from previous PTA coursework and apply it to the orthopedic patient.
PTA 108 - Neurology and Development Theory
This course will cover basic neuroanatomy and neurophysiology with a focus on human growth and development from birth to the aged adult. It will cover the physical, cognitive, social and emotional changes with aging and their impact on functional movement. The process of motor development through motor control and motor learning will be addressed and applied to treatment of neurologic conditions through the lifespan.
PTA 108L 鈥 Neurology and Development Lab
This course will provide the practical training for the assessment and treatment of normal and abnormal neurodevelopment. It is the laboratory component of PTA 108 Neurology and Development and will focus on neurodevelopmental treatment techniques for pediatric patients. Fundamentals of treatment for neurological conditions in the adult and general treatment strategies related to geriatric patients will also be covered.
PTA 121 鈥 Clinical Practicum 1
This course will provide students with the opportunity to observe and participate in patient care as directed by a clinical instructor. Students will be placed in a clinical setting for a full time (40 hrs/wk), eight-week clinical experience where they will apply knowledge and skills learned in semesters one, two and three of the PTA Program. Students will provide care as directed by a licensed physical therapist or physical therapist assistant for uncomplicated and complicated patients with the degree of supervision and guidance based on the patient and the environment. Students are expected to be operating at an intermediate level by the end of this clinical experience.
PTA Program Semester 4 Courses
**Does not include any necessary GE courses
PTA 109 鈥 Neurologic Management Theory
This course will cover physical therapy interventions for common neurologic conditions. Additionally, assessment, medical management, environmental barriers, adaptive equipment, psychosocial issues and effective interdisciplinary management will also be covered as it applies to the patient with a neurologic condition. Students will apply neuroanatomy and developmental concepts learned in PTA 108 Neurology and Development to the adult patient with a neurologic condition.
PTA 109L 鈥 Neurologic Management Lab
This course will cover the practical training for the assessment and treatment of common neurologic conditions by the physical therapist assistant. It is the laboratory component of PTA 109 Neurologic Management Theory and will apply principles of patient management taught in that course. It will incorporate treatment principles and progression from previous courses through the use of case studies.
PTA 110 鈥 Advanced Procedures Theory
This course will cover physical therapy care for unique patient populations including patients with respiratory dysfunction, women鈥檚 health patients, oncology patients, amputees, patients with vestibular dysfunction, chronic pain patients and those with complex multi-system pathology. Topics include diagnoses, medical and physical therapy interventions, special considerations and equipment needs for these patient populations.
PTA 110L 鈥 Advanced Procedures Lab
This course will provide the practical training for physical therapy care for unique patient populations including patients with respiratory dysfunction, women鈥檚 health patients, oncology patients, amputees, patients with vestibular dysfunction, patients with chronic pain and those with complex multi-system pathology. This is the laboratory portion of PTA 110 Advanced Procedures Theory. The focus of this course will be the application of concepts and interventions to patient treatment scenarios.
PTA 111 鈥 Professional Integration
This course will cover issues related to practice management and encourage problem solving skills to integrate all knowledge and skills learned throughout the PTA Program. The course will be discussion based and focus on learning through case studies. This course will also prepare students for licensure as a PTA and include a comprehensive exam covering all information taught in the PTA Program.
PTA 122 鈥 Clinical Practicum 2
This course will provide students with the opportunity to observe and participate in patient care as directed by a clinical instructor. Students will be placed in a clinical setting for a full time (40 hrs/wk), eight-week clinical experience where they will apply knowledge and skills learned in semesters one through four of the PTA Program. Students will provide care as directed by a licensed physical therapist or physical therapist assistant for uncomplicated and complicated patients with the degree of supervision and guidance based on the patient and the environment. Students are expected to provide patient care and fulfill the role of the physical therapist assistant at entry level by the end of this clinical experience.
Required General Education and Institutional Requirements
Institutional requirements may be fulfilled through specific courses that can double count in different areas. See the for a list of classes that meet these requirements.
**All students are required to meet with a 黑料正能量 academic counselor to create an education plan and review graduation requirements.
Studies in Culture (Institutional requirement) 鈥 Some courses can double count in GE Area 2, 3, 4, or 4A.
Wellness (Institutional requirement) 鈥 Some courses can double count in GE Area 4 or Area 5.(*Students may submit four months active-duty military service verified by submission of form DD-214.)
English Composition (GE Area 1A) - Fulfilled by prerequisite course ENG 200
Oral Communication and Critical Thinking (GE Area 1B)
Mathematical Competency and Quantitative Reasoning (GE Area 2)
Arts and Humanities (GE Area 3)
Social and Behavioral Sciences (GE Area 4)
American Institutions (GE Area 4A)
Natural Sciences (GE Area 5) - Fulfilled by prerequisite courses BIO 230 and BIO 231
Ethnic Studies (GE Area 6)
Chem 200 - Introduction to Chemistry (Institutional pre-requisite for BIO 231 - Human Physiology)
Admissions Policy
黑料正能量 (MC) will accept 24 students into the PTA program each year. The PTA program abides by all MC policies and procedures related to admissions, including but not limited to due process and non-discrimination. The application period is March 1-May 31.
Admissions criteria for the PTA Program are as follows:
- Admission to 黑料正能量 -
- Completion of PTA Program Application - Coming March 1
- Completion of the five prerequisite courses with a grade of 鈥淐鈥 or better
- Submission of official college transcripts verifying successful completion of prerequisite coursework or unofficial transcripts of prerequisites in progress
- Open application period runs from March 1 - May 31 each year.
- Admission to the program is based on a multi-selection criteria.
- 24 students are accepted into the program each year.
- If the class of 24 is filled, a wait list of 10 students will be maintained.
- Emails will be sent to students admitted into the PTA Program by June 10th. Students will be required to notify the PTA Program by June 15 to confirm their intention to begin the program in August.
- Emails will also be sent to those on the wait list with their alternate number. Alternates will be required to respond to the PTA Program by June 15 to confirm and maintain their position on the wait list.
- Procedures that are and will be used to recruit students to the program are consistent with procedures used for general recruiting at MC. The college and program strive to recruit a diverse patient population through outreach to high schools in the district, informational booths at community events, program brochures, advertisement through the internet, local newspapers, and radio.
- Acceptance/matriculation rate in 2025: 50%. Prior to 2025: 100%
| Overview of Multi-Selection Criteria | |
| 1. Prerequisites completion / GPA | 30 |
| 2. Work or volunteer experience in physical therapy or related healthcare field | 30 |
| 3. Special considerations | 10 |
| 4. Alternate in previous application period | 5 |
| Max Total Points | 75 |
Category 1: Prerequisite Completion prior to application period:
CRITERIA | POINTS (30 max) | REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION |
| Three prerequisites | 10 | Completion of three prerequisite courses with C鈥檚 or higher at time of application. |
| Four prerequisites | 15 | Completion of four prerequisite courses with C鈥檚 or higher at time of application |
| All five prerequisites | 20 | Completion of all five prerequisite courses with C鈥檚 or higher at time of application |
| Prerequisite GPA if ALL FIVE prerequisites completed: | 听 | All five prerequisites must be completed to earn points for GPA in prerequisite courses |
| Prerequisite GPA at 3.0 or higher | 10 | Official transcripts for verification of grades in all prerequisite courses |
| Prerequisite GPA at 2.5 or higher | 5 | Official transcripts for verification of grades in all prerequisite courses |
Category 2: Work or volunteer experience in related healthcare field (if any)
CRITERIA | POINTS (30 max)) | REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION |
| Volunteer or paid work in a related field for a min. of 200 hours within two years of application. | 5 | Letter from current/former employer verifying employment or current/former organization verifying volunteer service. The letter must be on organization letterhead with an original signature and include the applicant's name (must match name on PTA program application), start date and end date (if applicable), employment status (full-time/part-time), number of hours worked per week (or total hours worked from/to date), job title, department if applicable, and examples of duties that include patient interaction |
| Volunteer or paid aide/tech work in an out-patient physical therapy setting for a min. of 100 hours within the past two years. | 15 | See criteria above |
| Volunteer or paid aide/tech work in an in-patient physical therapy setting for a min. of 100 hours within the past two years. | 15 | See criteria above |
Category 3: Special Considerations
| CRITERIA | POINTS (10 max) | REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION |
| Prior Degree | 8 | Previous degree from an accredited institution: Associate (2 pts), Bachelors (4 pts), Master (6 pts), or Doctorate (8 pts) |
| Additional science course if no prior degree | 2 | 3 or more units of additional course work in non-prerequisite sciences |
Category 4: Alternate from previous class
| CRITERIA | POINTS | REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION |
| Alternate | 5 | Alternate in previous application period |
1. Health Clearance - Applicants must present evidence of physical fitness and ability to perform tasks required of a Physical Therapist Assistant. Before the first day of the fall semester in August, students must complete a physical exam and all immunizations requested, which may include an annual flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine. (Some clinical sites may accept vaccine waivers.)
- Technical Standards/Essential Functions are provided as a link on the PTA web page (Click here to view the Physical Therapist Assistant Program Essential Functions). Students are expected to be able to perform all Technical Standards/Essential Functions throughout the program.
2. Criminal Background Check - Clinical placements are a mandatory component of the curriculum and will require clearance of a criminal background check. Students who do not clear agency requirements are not eligible for clinical placement and will, consequently, be ineligible to continue in the program. A clear background check must be completed prior to the first day of the fall semester in August. **See Background Check and Drug Screen Policy below.
3. Drug Screen - A drug screen is required prior to the first clinical education experience in the third semester, and may be required prior to any clinical education experience depending upon the clinical site requirements. Based on the policies of clinical sites, students cannot participate in the program with cannabis in their system. This includes the use of medical marijuana regardless of having a medical marijuana card. **See Background Check and Drug Screen Policy below.
4. CPR for Healthcare Provider - You must present a valid CPR card for Healthcare Provider offered through the American Heart Association prior to the beginning of the second semester in the program. Card must be valid throughout the duration of the program.
5. Malpractice Insurance - PTA students are required to obtain malpractice insurance prior to the end of the second semester.
**Failure to present the required documents detailed above by the deadlines stated may result in reversal of acceptance or administrative dismissal from the program.
Most clinical facilities require criminal background checks and urine drug screens for individuals providing patient care. Thus, the clinical affiliation agreements between the 黑料正能量 Physical Therapist Assistant Program and clinical agencies require that background checks be conducted and urine drug screens be completed for all students prior to placement in a clinical environment. Therefore, all PTA students are required to obtain a clear background check and urine drug screen before entering the PTA Program.
If a student cannot be cleared for clinical participation due to a background check infraction or a positive drug screen result, the student will not be able to participate in the clinical experience, which is a program requirement. If a student is found ineligible for clinical placement by the clinical facility after admission to the PTA program, they shall be subject to dismissal from the program, as they will be unable to complete the mandatory clinical course objectives.
If the drug screen result comes back as positive, adulterated, or non-negative, it is considered a 鈥減ositive鈥 drug screen. If the drug screen comes back as 鈥渄ilute鈥 the student may be allowed one retest at the student鈥檚 expense and at the discretion of the program director. Any student who fails to show up for their drug screen will be considered to have a 鈥減ositive鈥 drug test. A urine drug screen may be required at any given time during the program if required by an affiliated clinical agency or program policies.
If criminal convictions are discovered that were not identified in the background check and those convictions are of such an age or nature that they preclude the student from participating at all clinical sites, the student will be dismissed from the program. A student convicted of a criminal offense while enrolled in the PTA program must report the conviction to the Program Director within five days of the conviction.
(The background checks and urine drug screenings are conducted by a designated independent service provider. The results are maintained and protected as confidential documents by the Program Director.)
**2024 Updated Information Regarding Changes to California State Laws
Despite the recent change to California state laws regarding marijuana usage, our clinical facilities still require a clean urine drug screen from all students. Clinical agencies must uphold federal laws and therefore cannot accept a positive urine drug screen, including students with medical marijuana authorization.
Any student with concerns about background checks and drug screenings is encouraged to contact Program Director Sara Bogner for confidential advising: sbogner@mendocino.edu
A student may transfer from a professional physical therapy program or another PTA Program provided that the student meets the following criteria:
1. The 黑料正能量 and PTA Program application and registration procedures are completed.
2. All 黑料正能量 courses must be taken in their entirety even if students have successfully completed units of the course in another PT or PTA Program with the exception of courses taken in the Shasta College PTA Program. Courses completed while enrolled in the PTA Program at Shasta College will be transferable to the 黑料正能量 PTA Program following review by the 黑料正能量 PTA Program Director.
3. A plan to introduce a student from a PT program to the PTA role will be developed by the PTA Program faculty and the student. This plan may include self-study, or an on-site visit with a PTA in the community.
Contact Program Director Sara Bogner for more information: sbogner@mendocino.edu
The District is committed to equal opportunity in educational programs, employment, and all access to institutional programs and activities. The District, and each individual who represents the District, shall provide access to its services, classes, and programs without regard to national origin, religion, age, gender, gender identity, gender expression, race or ethnicity, color, medical condition, genetic information, ancestry, immigration status, sexual orientation, marital status, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, or military and veteran status, or because he/she is perceived to have one or more of the foregoing characteristics, or based on association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics. The Superintendent/President shall establish administrative procedures that ensure all members of the college community can present complaints regarding alleged violations of this policy and have their complaints heard in accordance with the Title 5 regulations and those of other agencies that administer state and federal laws regarding nondiscrimination.
No District funds shall ever be used for membership, or for any participation involving financial payment or contribution on behalf of the District or any individual employed by or associated with it, to any private organization whose membership practices are discriminatory on the basis of national origin, immigration status, religion, age, gender, gender identity, gender expression, race, color, medical condition, genetic information, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, or military and veteran status, or because he/she is perceived to have one or more of the foregoing characteristics, or because of his/her association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.
PTA Program Fees 2025*
In-state tuition fees听are $46 per unit and out-of-state tuition fees are $341/unit. All costs listed below are estimates and subject to change.听You may download the听
| 听 | In-State Cost | Out-of-State Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition - Year 1 (includes pre-requisite and GE courses) | $2,162 | $16,027 |
| Tuition - Year 2 (includes GE courses) | $1,610 | $11,935 |
| Books and Supplies | $0-$1,500 | $0-$1,500 |
| Physical Exam and Immunizations | $0-$250 | $0-$250 |
| Drug Screen and Background Check | $0 | $0 |
| CPR and First Aid Training | $100 | $100 |
| Malpractice Insurance | $100 | $100 |
| 黑料正能量 Fees | $68 | $68 |
| PTA Licensure Exam | $150 | $150 |
| PTA License Application | $350 | $350 |
| Total | $4,590-$6,390 | $28,680-$30,480 |
*All textbooks are available听from the MC library to use in some form.听 听 听听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听听
*Cost estimates do not include student living expenses or any costs associated with travel or housing during required clinical practicum courses.
Please contact the 黑料正能量 Financial Aid office for questions regarding financial aid resources at 707-467-3110 or听financialaid@mendocino.edu.
Frequently Asked Questions
The PTA degree can be completed in six semesters including all pre-requisite and GE coursework. The technical phase of the PTA program is 4 semesters long. If you have already completed GE and pre-requisite coursework, then consider the PTA portion of the degree 4 semesters long.
Fall semester of each year, which begins in mid-August.
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Yes, the pre-requisite courses can be in progress at the time of application. If accepted to the program, course completion with a grade of "C" or better will be verified. Please meet with an academic counselor to make sure you are taking the correct courses.
Graduates of the program will be awarded an Associate in Science degree in Physical Therapist Assistant. However, earning the AS degree does not automatically entitle the graduate to practice as a Physical Therapist Assistant. The graduate must apply for permission to sit for the California State Board Examination and pass the exam in order to gain licensure in the state of California.
Perform patient interventions in the form of treatment for various disabilities and age ranges, under the direction of a physical therapist. These interventions may include therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular re-education, physical agents (such as electrical stimulation or ultrasound) and mobility training. Physical therapy is intended to increase patient safety and independence, decrease pain, facilitate healing and promote a healthy lifestyle to prevent injury and disease.
A physical therapist is responsible for managing all aspects of the physical therapy care of each patient. A physical therapist shall provide: initial evaluation, periodic reevaluation, and discharge evaluation for each patient and associated documentation. A physical therapist shall assure the qualifications of all physical therapist assistants and physical therapy aides under his or her direction and supervision. A physical therapist shall provide all of the therapeutic intervention that requires the expertise of a physical therapist and shall determine the use of physical therapist assistants or physical therapy aides that provides for the delivery of service that is safe, effective, and efficient for each patient. Physical therapists education requires a bachelor's degree (4 years) followed by completion of a physical therapy program (usually 3 years), and the degree achieved is a doctoral degree. Physical therapists take a national licensure exam that qualifies them to work in any state in the US.
See question 6 for the role of a physical therapist assistant. Physical therapist assistant education is typically around two years, and the degree achieved is an associates degree. Physical therapist assistants take a national licensure exam that qualifies them to work in any state in the US.
A physical therapist may use a physical therapy aide for designated routine tasks in the clinic. A physical therapy aide shall work under the on-site supervision of a physical therapist who is continuously on-site and present in the facility. Physical therapy aide positions typically require a high school diploma, and on-site job training is provided.
For further information regarding physical therapy practice, please consult the Physical Therapy Examining Committee Model Practice Act for Physical Therapy, 3rd edition. This document can be found at the following web site: . The website for the Physical Therapy Examining Committee is .
Students are selected through a random lottery process as required by the State of California. (**In 2026, we are moving to a multi-criteria (point) system. More information will be available in August.)
A licensed Physical Therapist Assistant can work in a variety of settings under the direction of a Physical Therapist such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, pediatric treatment units and outpatient clinics. Currently the job market is excellent. Please refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics for more information:
Please refer to the program sequence under the "Program" tab for a list of the GE courses required for graduation. While all GE coursework can be completed in conjunction with the program coursework as indicated in the program sequence, any and all of the GE coursework can also be completed before entering the program in order to lighten the academic load while in the program. A 黑料正能量 counselor can answer all questions related to GE coursework, including determining if courses from other institutions will transfer and meet graduation requirements for the PTA Program.
Yes! The 黑料正能量 academic counselors can help you determine the best path to entering the PTA Program and answer any question you may have related to prerequisite coursework, GE coursework and graduation requirements. All students should meet with a 黑料正能量 counselor in the preparation for applying to the PTA Program.
The PTA program has a no tolerance policy regarding drug use during the program and on campus.
Background Check and Drug Screen Policy
Most clinical facilities require criminal background checks and urine drug screens for individuals providing patient care. Thus, the clinical affiliation agreements between the 黑料正能量 Physical Therapist Assistant Program and clinical agencies require that background checks be conducted and urine drug screens be completed for all students prior to placement in a clinical environment. Therefore, all PTA students are required to obtain a clear background check and urine drug screen before entering the PTA Program.
If a student cannot be cleared for clinical participation due to a background check infraction or a positive drug screen result, the student will not be able to participate in the clinical experience, which is a program requirement. If a student is found ineligible for clinical placement by the clinical facility after admission to the PTA program, they shall be subject to dismissal from the program, as they will be unable to complete the mandatory clinical course objectives.
If the drug screen result comes back as positive, adulterated, or non-negative, it is considered a 鈥減ositive鈥 drug screen. If the drug screen comes back as 鈥渄ilute鈥 the student may be allowed one retest at the student鈥檚 expense and at the discretion of the program director. Any student who fails to show up for their drug screen will be considered to have a 鈥減ositive鈥 drug test. A urine drug screen may be required at any given time during the program if required by an affiliated clinical agency or program policies.
If criminal convictions are discovered that were not identified in the background check and those convictions are of such an age or nature that they preclude the student from participating at all clinical sites, the student will be dismissed from the program. A student convicted of a criminal offense while enrolled in the PTA program must report the conviction to the Program Director within five days of the conviction.
(The background checks and urine drug screenings are conducted by a designated independent service provider. The results are maintained and protected as confidential documents by the Program Director.)
**2024 Updated Information Regarding Changes to California State Laws
Despite the recent change to California state laws regarding marijuana usage, our clinical facilities still require a clean urine drug screen from all students. Clinical agencies must uphold federal laws and therefore cannot accept a positive urine drug screen, including students with medical marijuana authorization.
Any student with concerns about background checks and drug screenings is encouraged to contact Program Director Sara Bogner for confidential advising: sbogner@mendocino.edu
Contact us
Full-Time Faculty
Sara Bogner
Joseph Munoz
Adjunct Faculty
Emily Bruton
