Getting Started

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for admission, the applicant must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 in both science and non-science prerequisite courses as well as completed a minimum of 48 quarter units (or 32 semester units) at an accredited college or university. Program admission is a selective and competitive process. Criteria for admission include: appropriate science and non-science GPA, completion of subject requirements, quality interview, well thought out essay, strong recommendations, and completed observation/volunteer/work experience. All admission rubrics can be found above under "Admission Documents".

Requirements for admission:

1. Acceptance to Southern Adventist University
2. Satisfactory completion of all required academic prerequisites with a minimum prerequisite GPA of 2.5 and a minimum grade of C in all prerequisite courses.
3. PTA application submitted by April 1st prior to starting PTA coursework (which begins in August)
4. Documentation provided regarding the minimum 80 observation hours completed in a physical therapy clinic setting (20 inpatient, 20 outpatient, 40 your choice)
5. Work experience in a physical therapy setting is recommended but not required
6. Letters of recommendation (minimum of three)

Prerequisite University Course Requirements for Admissions

The PTA program has established key prerequisite courses as part of the admission process for a couple reasons. First, student success is the primary objective throughout this program. The prerequisite courses have been selected to closely reflect the level of intensity and difficulty found in the PTA courses. Second, students need to be aware of the time commitment that is required to complete the PTA program. Both student commitment and focus are critical to ultimate success.

If a student is scheduled for an advising appointment, please reference the sample course progression listed below. Students are encouraged to bring all transcripts from colleges or universities where the prerequisites were completed. Unofficial transcripts are okay initially; however, official copies must be supplied during the application process for admission to Southern.

Deadlines

The deadline for submission of the PTA application is April 1st prior to the following August start date. Due to the popularity of this program, students are encouraged to apply early within the enrollment period. This also allows for ample time to provide all the required documents for application. Waiting or putting off submission of your application and/or not completing all admission requirements early on may decrease your chances of acceptance.

Once the application is closed, all applications submitted are reviewed for completeness. The top candidates progress to the interview stage of the process.

International students need to apply early for extended processing. See International student information for further details.

PLEASE NOTE:  Credits must be from an accredited college or university.

Program of Instruction

Physical Therapist Assistant Associate in Science
The program of instruction outlined below is for students who are enrolled at Southern Adventist University. Courses are taught during daytime hours and usually four to five days a week, depending on the semester of study. Class times may vary by quarter depending on instructor and classroom availability.

A minimum course grade of C or 73% and a minimum exam average of 75% are required for all courses in the program in order to advance.

If you have questions regarding our PTA program, feel free to call or email our department, (423) 236-2858 or pta@southern.edu. When you call, set up a time to come by and visit the campus. This is a great opportunity for you to see first-hand what Southern Adventist University has to offer. Please call or email us to plan your visit. We request that you bring a copy of your transcripts, the prerequisites sheet, and any questions you may have.

Program Cost

Once a student is accepted into the technical component of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program, the following tuition and fees apply:

• Second year cost of program
  • Tuition 
    • Fall 2023 - $12,175
    • Winter 2024 - $12,175
    • Fall 2024 - $12,175
  • Total = $36,525

Please note: This is tuition only. Additional fees for housing, books, meals, and/or lab fees may apply. Please refer to the current undergraduate catalog.