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Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant Jobs in Michigan

Aegis Therapies

Physical Therapy Assistant

East Lansing, MI · On-site

$26.50 - $35/hr

Physical Therapy Assistant / PTA- Outpatient Great Work/life Balance and Flexibility of hours Part-time Opportunities Available (20-25 hours weekly) Location: Independence Village of East Lansing ...

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Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant information

See Michigan salary details

$21.8K

$41.7K

$59.7K

How much do entry level physical therapy assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level physical therapy assistant in Michigan is $41,689.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,300.00 and $45,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level physical therapy assistant?

Entry level physical therapy assistants (PTAs) are healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries, manage pain, and improve mobility. They assist with implementing treatment plans, demonstrating exercises, and documenting patient progress. Entry level PTAs typically have completed an accredited associate degree program and obtained state licensure or certification. Their role is essential in supporting patient care and ensuring the effectiveness of physical therapy interventions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level physical therapy assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant, you need a solid understanding of human anatomy, therapeutic exercise techniques, and must possess an accredited associate degree along with state licensure or certification. Familiarity with patient documentation software and rehabilitation equipment like resistance bands and therapeutic modalities is typically required. Strong interpersonal communication, teamwork, and compassion are vital soft skills for supporting both patients and supervising physical therapists. These skills ensure effective patient care, compliance with treatment plans, and smooth collaboration in clinical settings.

What are the most common challenges faced by entry level physical therapy assistants, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level Physical Therapy Assistants often face challenges such as adjusting to a fast-paced clinical environment, managing a diverse patient caseload, and effectively communicating with both patients and supervising physical therapists. Building strong organizational skills and seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues can help ease the transition. Additionally, being proactive in asking questions and participating in team meetings supports continuous learning and professional growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant vs Physical Therapist?

AspectEntry Level Physical Therapy AssistantPhysical Therapist
CredentialsAssociate's degree, licensure requiredBachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree, licensure required
Work EnvironmentAssist patients under supervision in clinics, hospitals, rehab centersEvaluate, diagnose, and develop treatment plans independently
Job RoleImplement treatment plans, assist patients with exercisesDesign treatment plans, assess progress, make clinical decisions

In summary, Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistants support physical therapists by implementing treatment plans and assisting patients, while Physical Therapists have a broader role involving diagnosis, treatment planning, and clinical decision-making. Both roles require licensure and work in similar healthcare settings, but differ in education level and scope of responsibilities.

Do physical therapy assistants or physical therapists make more money?

Physical therapists typically earn higher salaries than physical therapy assistants because they have more advanced education and responsibilities. Entry-level physical therapy assistants usually earn less but can increase their income with experience and additional certifications. Salary differences reflect the varying levels of training and scope of practice between the two roles.

What is the quickest way to become an entry level physical therapy assistant?

To become an entry-level physical therapy assistant, you need to complete an accredited associate degree program in physical therapy assisting, which typically takes about two years. After graduation, passing the National Physical Therapy Exam for PTAs and obtaining state licensure or certification is required before starting work.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant jobs in Michigan?

For Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant job openings:

Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,689 per year, or $20 per hour.

Adjunct Faculty Instructor - Physical Therapist Assistant Program

Henry Ford College, MI

Dearborn, MI • On-site

$51.81 - $56.28/hr

Part-time

PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Salary: $51.81 - $56.28 Hourly
Location : Dearborn, MI, MI
Job Type: Adjunct Faculty
Job Number: 202200188
Division: Health Careers
Department: Physical Therapy Assistant
Opening Date: 02/09/2023
Position Description Summary
Henry Ford College presents an opportunity for an Adjunct Faculty - Physical Therapist Assistant Program.
Prepares individuals for employment as entry-level Physical Therapist Assistants. Instructors will teach in the classroom and/or laboratory and/or assist with student assessment on practical examinations and skill check-offs.
Core Competencies and Qualifications
  • Licensed PT or PTA.
  • Minimum of one year experience of practice.
  • Earned Bachelor's Degree or higher from a regionally-accredited institution required

Essential Duties and Responsibilities including but not limited to
  • Teach to the specific knowledge base and technical skills for students to be able to provide care as an entry-level Physical Therapist Assistant.
  • Instruct on professional behaviors that comply with legal standards and adhere to the ethical standards established by the American Physical Therapy Association for Physical Therapists Assistants.
  • Make a reasonable effort to participate in professional development activities in order to identify and implement effective teaching strategies that foster student learning.
  • Make a reasonable effort to foster honest academic conduct and ensure that his or her evaluations of students reflect each student's performance.
  • Demonstrate respect for students as individuals and foster a respectful atmosphere in the classroom or an online learning environment.
  • Treat all students with respect and fairness without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, weight, height, marital status, familial status, protected disability, sexual orientation, political affiliation or belief or any other status protected by law.
  • Demonstrate mastery of course material, come to class prepared to teach the day's lesson (including preparing all handouts, exams or other materials before the start of class), and present the material conscientiously.
  • Teach course(s) in accordance with the description in the Course Master and in accordance with Department and/or standardized course policies. It is recognized that the methods, procedures, and interpretations of various instructors may differ.
  • Be available for student consultations and provide guidance to students to promote student learning and success.
  • Meet all scheduled classes, final examinations, check-offs, as scheduled.
  • Grade and return written work to students in a timely manner. Maintain appropriate records of students' attendance, intermediate, and final grades; submit required reports to the appropriate office by the scheduled deadlines.
  • Develop and distribute an effective course syllabus, following the guidelines of College policies and incorporate required elements of the course master; adhere to the written syllabus throughout the semester, within reasonable limits; participate in the College course evaluation process.
  • Be informed of the Colleges support services for students and recommend their use, when advisable.
  • Make every reasonable effort to attend scheduled staff meetings.
  • Behave appropriately in dealing with students and staff so as to maintain a scholarly and professional atmosphere.
  • Notify the Associate Dean as soon as possible if unable to meet scheduled class session; schedule personal vacations to coincide with the College.
  • Responsible for performing, analyzing and reporting assessment of student learning.

REWARDS THAT LAST A LIFETIME
Henry Ford College takes great pride in offering a variety of comprehensive and industry-leading programs and resources to support the health and well-being of our team members and their families.
Being an industry leader means giving back to our most valuable asset - our employees.
Henry Ford College is pleased to offer the following benefit and wellness options to eligible Part-time Faculty (AFO):
The following benefits are available to Part-Time Faculty members:
  • Office of Retirement Services (ORS)

Office of Retirement System (ORS) provides a choice between Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution Plans. Employees contribute between 0% and 13% in addition to HFC contributions towards retirement, based on plan choice.
  • Employment Assistance Program

HFC offers the following work-life balance in Counseling, Coaching, and Legal & Financial Consultation.
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Paid Time Off

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