General Program Description

The PTA program consists of four consecutive academic semesters of both lecture and lab components, supplemented by four clinical practica. Students graduate upon completion of the final clinical practicum in August. The two full-time faculty are complemented by numerous guest speakers with specialty expertise.

Clinical Experiences
The first clinical experience is 4-weeks full-time. It is completed during the summer after the second semester. The second clinical experience is also 4-weeks, full-time and takes place in February and March of the third semester. The final two clinical experiences are each full-time, and 5 weeks in length. These are completed during April, May and June of the final semester. These clinical experiences are performed at over 70 available hospitals, private clinics, schools and nursing homes throughout Western New York.

Faculty
There are two full-time and nine part-time faculty members. Two of the full-time faculty members are engaged in clinical practice. The faculty-to-student ratio is 1:20.

Enrollment
Total enrollment of the college exceeds 4,500 students. The physical therapist assistant program accepts 24 students.

Admission
Admission requirements include a high school diploma or GED, including course work in biology. Students must have additional preparation in physics, and a high school average of at least 80% in math and science courses (or a C in the equivalent college-level courses). The rolling admissions process is initiated August 1st for the freshman class of the following year. The average number of qualified applicants annually is 60. 33% of qualified applicants are admitted to the program (3-year average).

Outcomes
65% of admitted students graduate from the program (3-year average).

Tuition, fees and financial aid
The 2007-2008 average yearly cost for tuition, fees, insurance and textbooks is approximately $3500 per year. Niagara County residents pay approximately 75% of nonresident tuition fees. (Please request college catalog for residency requirements and latest tuition, fees, and insurance charges.) It is anticipated that student housing will become available Fall 2008. Off-campus housing is available at a range of prices, within Sanborn and surrounding communities. Approximately 75% of Niagara County Community College (NCCC) students receive financial aid assistance. Their aid consists of grants, scholarships, loans, and campus employment. Information is available through the Financial Aid Office.

Student life
Niagara County Community College, established in 1962, opened its contemporary campus in 1973 on 287 semi-wooded acres. In assessing its role in the lives of students, NCCC considers the total campus environment as a part of your college experience. The college recognizes that participation in student government and student activities should be a vital part of a college education. Cultural, social, and athletic activities are provided, and a full range of special interest groups and organizations are open to all students. In addition, NCCC is equidistant from three major Niagara County cities, Niagara Falls, Lockport, and North Tonawanda.