RN or PTA

HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD · Oct 18, 2011

You're very wise to explore different options rather than focus entirely on nursing. PTA is a great career, especially in light of the projected increased demand associated with an aging population. I certainly would not categorize it as an "end of the line" since I know of some PTAs tha have gone on to become PTs.

Respiratory Therapy is a good option also, but be aware that there are professional controversies - just like nursing - over the different certifications that should be obtained (RRT vs CRT). At this point, it is still difficult to obtain a BS in RT - very few programs and options.

Radiology techs are in great demand in my area -- especially anyone with specialty certification in more advanced diagnostic modalities.

Best of luck to you - keep us posted on your progress.

leenie71 · Oct 21, 2011

A little about me....I'm 40 yrs old. I come from a family of RNs (mom and sister), but I didn't think I could do it myself. Instead, I had always wanted to be a PT and got my BS in Biology first, planning to apply to grad school for PT (before it was a DPT program). Was wait-listed, then worked in unrelated job for a while. Decided to go the PTA route, finished that program in 2 yrs and worked in Pennsylvania for 7 yrs doing mostly acute care and rehab. Realized that I was not making much compared to the nurses I worked side by side with everyday. Earned my BSN 6 years ago and so glad I did. I'll be honest, PTA is a dead-end job....that's coming from personal experience and the earning potential is limited. I did enjoy it, but personally it got to me that I could know more and be doing more. I don't regret my PTA experience, because it ultimately led me to go for nursing but it was definitely the long route! In my opinion, ditch the PTA plans and go for nursing. There are so many career options available. Hope my sharing helped and best of luck to you in your decision!

leenie71 · Oct 22, 2011

Wanted to add also that being a PTA is not a fast-track to PT....you would have to start at square one with a PT program. No credit would be given for your PTA education because PTA is an Associates degree and PT is now a doctorate program. They are two very different programs and really, two different career paths.

avengingspirit1 · Nov 28, 2012

I successfully finished 1 year of a 2 year Associates Physical Therapist Assistant Program before switching and becoming an RN. I made the decision because I was told that as an RN, I could go into rehab nursing. Now I want to know if there's such a thing as an RN-PTA Program or even some type of hybrid program that would enable me to finish the PTA work so I can be licensed in both fields. I live in the Phila., PA area.

mvzRN · Nov 30, 2012

My cousin did radiology tech for hospital for several years then branched off into medical equipment rep after becoming acquainted with docs and equipment reps. He also said there was opportunity for learning MRI, CT, but now I believe they require a further certification.

dantina777 · Mar 23, 2017

Which path did you pursue? I am having the same dilemma and need your input. Thanks!

nick007 · Oct 13, 2020

I was also undecided but ulitametly decided to go or nursing. Even if you don't like bedside nursing like I assume I myself won't... there are so many setting and jobs you can get as a nurse. I start my lvn program next month and im excited. There is just more to do with nursing compared to the deadend job of a pta. Pta is great though, but if you are the type of person who always wants to level up, nursing is the better route. I feel if I chose to do pta, I will feel stuck and like im not doing enough in 10-20 years. I am going to watnt to earn more money and continue learing. You can get a managerial director position as a pta but its difficult becasue those spots are dominated by pt's. If you do land a director job, you will most likely be underpaid compared to PTs. RN's can do healthcare management, bedside, all the diff floors available at a hostpital, you can just be a med pass nurse, you can work at a school, be a teacher, work for a pharmaceutical company, work in health improvement management. Way more options to make more money and find something you really like to do.