This program prepares the individual to become a skilled assistant working under the supervision of a physical therapist. The physical therapist assistant is given the background to provide essential patient services for the prevention and alleviation of physical impairment and the restoration of function. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education - American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) except for Hazard and Southeast where accreditation is pending. The curriculum combines general education and physical therapy courses which are held at the colleges and at off-campus sites. Various health agencies in the community are utilized for clinical experience. The graduate is eligible to write the state licensing examination for the physical therapist assistant. Enrollment in this program is limited; therefore, a selective admissions process is followed (for information on admission guidelines, please contact the Admissions Office). Students enrolled in the Physical Therapist Assistant program must achieve a minimum grade of "C" in each Physical Therapist Assistant Course.