Northeast’s Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Associate of Applied Science degree program is dedicated to preparing student to work as valuable healthcare providers who are employable in any physical therapy setting. The program blends innovative technology with small class sizes to deliver personalized, hands-on training in a fun, supportive, and engaging environment. Led by expert faculty, students build confidence and clinical competence through interactive learning experiences. The curriculum covers essential topics such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, neuroscience, pathology, ethics, professionalism, and developing empathy for patients from diverse backgrounds and cultures—equipping graduates with the skills needed to thrive in the workforce. Program graduates will be well prepared to take the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs.
Why Students Choose This Program
Northeast’s Physical Therapist Assistant program provides a high-quality, affordable education with hands-on training and low tuition costs. Graduates are ready to take the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs and are fully prepared for a successful career in physical therapy.
Students benefit from personalized instruction and one-on-one mentorship from experienced faculty who bring real-world clinical experience into the classroom. With decades of combined expertise in both clinical practice and teaching, our instructors are committed to student success, helping build confidence and competence for future careers.
The program fosters a supportive, student-centered atmosphere where small class sizes encourage collaboration and academic growth. A culture of teamwork, group study sessions, and engaging class activities create a close-knit community, allowing students to support and motivate each other throughout their educational journey.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities and Courses
Hands-on learning is at the heart of Northeast’s Physical Therapist Assistant program. Students train with advanced technology and equipment in realistic clinical simulations, preparing them for success in the field. Real-world experience is emphasized through direct patient interaction in labs, clinical facility visits, and community-based learning. Classes frequently involve working with actual patients—both in the classroom and on-site—giving students valuable exposure early in their education. The program also encourages professional development through participation in state legislature, continuing education (CEU) opportunities, community service, and health promotion activities. To further enhance learning, students utilize cutting-edge tools like virtual reality for immersive training and the state-of-the-art Anatomage Table for a deep, interactive exploration of human anatomy. These experiences equip graduates with the clinical skills and confidence to thrive as professionals.
The program includes a diverse range of courses designed to provide students a foundational knowledge, including:
- Physical Therapy Procedures
- Orthopedic Assessment and Intervention
- Neurologic Rehabilitation
Program Details
2 years (72.5 credits)
Courses are offered in-person.
Enrollment in this program is limited and based on the date of completed requirements for acceptance into this program.
- Read the Application Packet carefully to ensure your application is complete.
- In order to complete the training, students must be able to perform the PTA Essential Functions and Physical Demands. Students are required to complete a physical exam, required vaccinations, tuberculosis test, a criminal background check, and a drug screen in order to perform clinical experiences during the second year of the program.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
CPR Certification
Program graduates will be well prepared to take the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs. The State of Nebraska requires graduates to pass this examination prior to practicing as a PTA.
Bryan Doke, PT, DPT, Rangeland Rehab
Lindsey Little, PTA, Cherry County Hospital
Maggie Earney, PTA, Rangeland Rehab
Barb Engberg, PT, Live Well Physical Therapy
Stacey AldagNortheast Community College
Lindsey Chapman, PTA, Jacobsen Therapy Services
Emily Afrank, DPT, Family Physical Therapy
Jami Doele, OTR/L, CHT, Faith Regional Health Services
Stephanie Jarecki, Columbus Physical Therapy
Marci Woehler, PTA, Wayne Country View Care and Rehabilitation
Kaitlyn Pongratz, Northeast Nebraska Physical Therapy
Robby France, PT, DPT, Brown County Hospital
Patrick Meuret, PT, DPT, Faith Regional Health Services
Laura Schwanebeck, MPT, Northeast Community College
Tere Siedschlag, PTA, Northeast Community College
Andrea Suhr, PTA, Northeast Community College
Dawn Doherty, Northeast Community College
Iris Woodhead, Northeast Community College
The Northeast PTA program was established in 1994. The program received a 10-year full accreditation status in 2020 and will seek re-accreditation in 2029-2030.
The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Northeast Community College 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: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 402-844-7326 or email PTA@northeast.edu.
File a complaint: Northeast Community College | CAPTE
Accreditation Validation: CapteValidation | APTA
Northeast PTA program graduates are eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs based on the current accreditation status. The State of Nebraska requires graduates to pass this examination prior to practicing as a PTA.
|
|
Graduation Year |
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
2-Year Avg. for 2022/2023 |
|
First-Time NPTE Pass Rate: Northeast Candidates |
70.0% |
88.9% |
100% |
94.4% |
|
First-Time NPTE Pass Rate: All U.S. Accredited Candidates |
78.2% |
82.0% |
80.8% |
79.9% |
|
Ultimate-Attempt NPTE Pass Rate: Northeast Candidates |
100% |
100% |
100% |
100% |
|
Ultimate-Attempt NPTE Pass Rate: All U.S. Accredited Candidates |
91.5% |
91.8% |
91.9% |
91.7% |
|
1-Year Employment Rate: Northeast Candidates |
100% |
100% |
88.8% |
94.4% |
|
Graduation Rate: Northeast PTA Program Graduates |
64.0% |
57.14% |
66.6% |
62.0% |
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