Research.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured placements, sponsored links, advertising widgets and labeled paid mentions in articles involve schools, brands or advertising networks that compensate us. Some universities also pay us to process their current program data, but no payment influences our ranking methodology, scores or positions, or the other editorially independent information published on this site.

Best Physical Therapist Assistant Training Programs & Trade Schools - Top PTA Schools in Texas for 2026

Imed Bouchrika, PhD

by Imed Bouchrika, PhD

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Table of Contents

What can I expect from physical therapist assistant trade schools in Texas?

In a physical therapist assistant trade school program in Texas, you can expect a well-structured mix of classroom learning, lab work, and hands-on clinical training that prepares you for real-world challenges. Graduates from popular Texas trade schools often describe spending five semesters immersed in courses like Anatomy & Physiology and Therapeutic Exercise, which build a strong foundation for patient care.

One highlight is the clinical education component, where you'll complete 600 to 700 hours of supervised experience in settings such as hospitals and outpatient clinics. Many students find these placements exciting and confidence-boosting, as they directly apply what they've learned while interacting with patients and healthcare teams.

Expect to develop professional skills like patient communication, ethical practice, and precise documentation. Admission is competitive, so preparing prerequisites and observation hours is key. Overall, students feel well-prepared for the National Physical Therapy Examination and ready to start rewarding careers helping diverse Texas communities.

Where can I work after finishing physical therapist assistant trade schools in Texas?

Graduates from physical therapist assistant trade schools in Texas often find rewarding employment in diverse healthcare settings across the state. Many secure positions in outpatient clinics, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and rehabilitation centers, where they work directly with patients recovering from injuries or managing chronic conditions. For example, graduates from popular Texas trade schools share how they quickly found full-time roles in cities like Dallas and Austin, enjoying hands-on care roles under experienced physical therapists.

Skilled nursing facilities in smaller Texas towns such as Muleshoe and Belton also offer excellent opportunities, often with flexible schedules and competitive weekly pay. Some graduates appreciate the chance to work with geriatric patients or in long-term care, which provides a meaningful, stable career path.

Others pursue specialized areas like orthopedic rehab or neurorehabilitation, especially in larger metro areas. Travel PTA roles are also popular, allowing graduates to explore different parts of Texas while earning $1,200 to $2,000 weekly, gaining varied experience and work-life balance.

Best Physical Therapist Assistant Training Programs & Trade Schools - Top PTA Schools in Texas for 2026

# 1 position

Austin Community College District - Physical Therapy Assistant.

associate

Austin Community College District offers a Physical Therapy Assistant program in a hybrid format with some distance education options. The program trains individuals to assist physical therapists by implementing treatment plans, conducting interventions, and monitoring patient progress. Tuition for in-state students is $2,550 annually. Graduates earn a median salary of $49,448 one year after completion. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

# 2 position

Victoria College - Physical Therapy Assistant.

associate

The Physical Therapy Assistant program at Victoria College offers a hybrid format with some distance education options. It prepares students to assist physical therapists by implementing treatment plans, training patients, and documenting progress. The curriculum includes anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, communication, and professional ethics. Annual in-state tuition is $2,853. Graduates earn a median salary of $49,346 one year after completion. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

# 3 position

Weatherford College - Physical Therapy Assistant.

associate

Weatherford College offers a Physical Therapy Assistant program in a hybrid format, preparing students to assist physical therapists in treatment care plans, patient training, and clinical documentation. The program covers applied anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, neuroscience, and professional ethics. Annual in-state tuition is $4,560. Graduates have median earnings of $51,083 one year after completion. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

# 4 position

San Jacinto Community College - Physical Therapy Assistant.

associate

The Physical Therapy Assistant program at San Jacinto Community College offers a hybrid format with some distance-education options. It prepares students to implement treatment care plans, train patients, and conduct interventions under a physical therapist’s supervision. The curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, behavioral sciences, biomechanics, and clinical documentation. Annual in-state tuition is $1,992. Median earnings one year after completion are $52,032. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

# 5 position

Rio Grande Valley College - Physical Therapy Assistant.

associate

A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of a physical therapist, to implement physical therapy treatment care plans, train patients, conduct treatment interventions, use equipment, and observe and record patient progress. Includes instruction in applied anatomy and physiology, behavioral sciences, biomechanics, clinical documentation, clinical pathology, communication, exercise physiology, kinesiology, neuroscience, and professional standards and ethics. Accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.

# 6 position

Amarillo College - Physical Therapy Assistant.

associate

Amarillo College offers a fully online Physical Therapy Assistant program designed to prepare students to support physical therapists in patient care, treatment interventions, and clinical documentation. The curriculum covers applied anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, neuroscience, and professional ethics. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Annual in-state tuition is $2,136, and median earnings one year after completion are $49,025.

# 7 position

Tarrant County College District - Physical Therapy Assistant.

associate

The Physical Therapy Assistant program at Tarrant County College District offers a hybrid format with some distance-education options. It prepares students to implement treatment plans, train patients, conduct interventions, and document progress under a physical therapist's supervision. The program includes instruction in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, communication, neuroscience, and professional ethics. Annual in-state tuition is $1,728. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Median earnings one year after completion are $44,058.

# 8 position

St Philip's College - Physical Therapy Assistant.

associate

St Philip's College offers a Physical Therapy Assistant program in a hybrid format, preparing students to assist physical therapists by implementing treatment plans, training patients, and documenting progress. The curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, neuroscience, and professional ethics. Annual in-state tuition is $3,412. Graduates earn a median salary of $46,461 one year after completion. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

# 9 position

Del Mar College - Physical Therapy Assistant.

associate

Del Mar College offers a Physical Therapy Assistant program in a hybrid format, preparing students to assist physical therapists in treatment care plans, patient training, and progress documentation. The curriculum covers applied anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, neuroscience, and professional ethics. Annual in-state tuition is $3,440. Graduates earn a median salary of $42,057 one year after completing the program. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

# 10 position

Concorde Career College-San Antonio - Physical Therapy Assistant.

associate

The Physical Therapy Assistant program at Concorde Career College-San Antonio offers a hybrid format with some distance education. It trains students to assist physical therapists in delivering treatment care, patient training, and progress documentation. The curriculum includes applied anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, neuroscience, and professional ethics. The program is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Median earnings one year after completion are $49,878.

Frequently Asked Questions about physical therapist assistant

How to prepare for the job market after completing physical therapist assistant trade school in Texas?

After completing a physical therapist assistant (PTA) trade school program in Texas, graduates should focus on obtaining Texas licensure, which requires passing the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs. This credential is mandatory to practice legally in the state. Preparing for the exam early during the program can improve success rates.

Networking is essential; students should connect with local clinics and hospitals offering internships or job placements. According to the Texas Workforce Commission, the demand for PTAs in Texas is projected to grow by 23% through 2030, indicating strong job prospects.

Continuing education and staying updated with state regulations also enhance employability in this competitive field.

What are the top skills employers look for in physical therapist assistant trade school graduates in Texas?

Employers in Texas highly value physical therapist assistant (PTA) graduates who demonstrate strong clinical skills and effective patient communication. According to the Texas Workforce Commission, practical knowledge in therapeutic exercises and patient care techniques is essential for success in this role. PTAs must also show proficiency in teamwork, as they often collaborate closely with physical therapists and other healthcare professionals.

Time management and critical thinking are key, given the fast-paced clinical environments many Texas PTAs work in. Familiarity with state regulations and safety protocols is increasingly important to ensure compliance and patient well-being. Additionally, empathy and patience remain top interpersonal skills sought by employers across Texas healthcare facilities.

How to find internships in Texas relevant to a physical therapist assistant trade school program?

Finding internships in Texas relevant to physical therapist assistant (PTA) trade school programs involves several practical steps. Start by contacting the career services department of your trade school, as many maintain partnerships with local clinics and rehabilitation centers. The Texas Physical Therapy Association (TPTA) also offers resources and networking opportunities that can connect students with internship sites.

Texas has numerous healthcare facilities offering PTA internships, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and nursing homes. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas is among the top states for physical therapy employment, increasing internship availability. It's important to verify that internships meet the clinical hour requirements set by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

Additionally, attending local health career fairs and using online platforms like the Texas Workforce Commission's job portal can uncover internship openings. Networking with licensed physical therapists can provide valuable referrals, enhancing your chances of securing a position aligned with your PTA trade school curriculum.

How does a physical therapist assistant trade school diploma influence career mobility and advancement in Texas?

Obtaining a physical therapist assistant (PTA) diploma from a Texas trade school significantly enhances career mobility within the state's healthcare sector. Graduates become eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam, a requirement for state licensure by the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners. Licensed PTAs in Texas benefit from a robust job market, with the Texas Workforce Commission projecting a 23% employment growth for PTAs from 2020 to 2030, well above the national average.

Completing an accredited PTA program also opens opportunities for advancement, including roles in specialized clinical settings or supervisory positions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas PTA median annual wages exceed the national median, reflecting positive financial mobility. Trade school diplomas provide practical skills and state licensure pathways that support upward career movement in Texas's expanding physical therapy field.

What part-time job opportunities in Texas can complement physical therapist assistant trade school education?

Part-time job opportunities in Texas that complement physical therapist assistant (PTA) trade school education often include roles such as physical therapy aide, rehabilitation technician, or patient care assistant. These positions allow students to gain practical experience in clinical settings while supporting licensed therapists. According to the Texas Workforce Commission, physical therapy aides in Texas earn an average hourly wage of around $13 to $16, making these roles accessible for students balancing work and study.

Working in outpatient clinics, nursing homes, or hospitals helps students develop skills in patient interaction, documentation, and basic therapy assistance. These roles also provide valuable insight into patient care workflows, which is beneficial when preparing for PTA certification exams.

How can I find the Best Physical Therapist Assistant degree program near me in Texas?

To find the best Physical Therapist Assistant degree program near me in Texas, start by researching local community colleges and universities that offer accredited programs in this field. You can utilize resources like Research.com to compare program rankings, curriculum details, and graduation outcomes in areas near Texas. Additionally, visiting campuses and speaking with current students or faculty can provide valuable insights into the quality and suitability of the programs available.

Do you have any feedback for this article?