Gulf Coast State College

PTA Program Data

Below is complete information including curriculum, learning format, tuition and fees, student outcomes, accreditation, student reviews, and application deadlines for the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Gulf Coast State College. Page updated: July 1st, 2025

Gulf Coast State College PTA Program Overview

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at Gulf Coast State College in Panama City, Florida, offers a dynamic path for those interested in healthcare and helping others regain movement and function. This accredited program leads to an Associate in Science degree over two years, combining classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience. Students complete around 74 credit hours covering subjects like anatomy, therapeutic exercise, patient care techniques, pathology, and professional issues.
Gulf Coast State’s PTA curriculum is designed to prepare graduates to work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists in settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, schools, rehabilitation centers—even home health agencies along the Emerald Coast. The college boasts a strong record: its average two-year employment rate for licensed graduates exceeds 90%, reflecting robust demand locally and across Florida’s Panhandle.

Tuition costs are competitive compared to other state colleges; financial aid and scholarships may be available for qualifying students. Graduates are eligible to sit for the national licensure exam required by the state of Florida. According to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), starting salaries typically range from $37-40K locally but can rise significantly with experience—upwards toward $60K nationally.

Unique advantages include small class sizes and close connections with local healthcare providers throughout Bay County and beyond—a real benefit when it comes time for clinical placements or job searching after graduation. For more details or application information contact Dr. Melinda Cumbaa at mcumbaa@gulfcoast.edu or call 850-913-3312.

Video from Gulf Coast State College

PTA Program Contact and Outcomes

Below is complete contact information for the PTA program director at Gulf Coast State College as well as links to complete data on student outcomes and more information on the Physical Therapist Assistant program.

Online PTA Schools

Compare Gulf Coast State College’s PTA program to online PTA programs listed below.