General Program Description

The PTA program is divided into two components: 29 semester hours of general education prerequisite courses, and 43 semester hours of PTA courses. Graduates who wish to be employed in Louisiana must pass a state licensing examination, which is prescribed by the Louisiana State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners.

Clinical Experiences
Clinical experience is provided each semester in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation agencies, schools, private practices, and nursing homes.

Faculty
There are three full-time and one part-time faculty members. Of the full-time faculty, 66% hold post-professional doctoral degrees, and all are engaged in clinical practice. The faculty to student ratio is 1:8.

Enrollment
Total enrollment at the college is approximately 20,000. The physical therapist assistant program admits 22-26 students each fall.

Admission
Acceptance into the PTA program is by selection only and is based on the applicant’s educational and personal qualifications and his or her ability to meet the professional responsibilities of a physical therapist assistant. Minimum requirements for consideration are as follows: transcripts of all previous college work, including 29 semester hours of designated prerequisite college courses; cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or better in each prerequisite course; cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or better in prerequisite science courses, completed application to the program; completion of a minimum of 60 clock-hours of observation, volunteer, or work experience in two different physical therapy settings (minimum of 30 hours in each setting) under the direct supervision of a licensed physical therapist. Applications must be submitted by March 31 of each year. 44% of qualified applicants are admitted to the program (3-year average).

Outcomes
88% of admitted students graduate from the program (3-year average).

Tuition, fees and financial aid
The approximate cost of tuition and fees for the 2014-2015 academic year is $9883 for in-state students and $15970 for out-of-state students. Financial assistance is provided to students who, without such aid, would be unable to attend college. A comprehensive program of employment, grants, and scholarships is available through federal, state, and institutional funds. For further information, please contact the Office of Student Financial Assistance at 504/671-5040.

Student life
Delgado Community College is located in New Orleans, Louisiana, home of Mardi Gras and the Jazz Festival. The college consists of three campuses. The PTA program is located on the City Park Campus.