Program Proposal Physical Therapist Assistant Associate in Applied Science Hopkinsville Community College June 9, 2016 i
3 Kentucky Community and Technical College System Proposal for Initiation of a New Degree/Diploma Program Associate in Applied Science Credential to be Awarded Physical Therapist Assistant Program Name Track(s): (if applicable) Hopkinsville Community College College Fall 2017 Proposed Starting Date CIP Code: 51.0806 CIP Taxonomy Title: Technician/Assistant Health Professions and Related Programs-Physical Therapist 5/18/16 College President/CEO Date i
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Associate in Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant Hopkinsville Community College A Proposal for Initiation of a New Degree Program A. Centrality to the Institution s Mission and Consistency with State s Goals Hopkinsville Community College (HCC) is a public, comprehensive, postsecondary institution focused on student success. In support of this mission, the college provides affordable, quality education and training for a diverse community of students. Through student-focused programs and services, HCC provides students with opportunities for lifelong learning and success through the achievement of certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees. As a member of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS), Hopkinsville Community College has campuses located at North Drive in Hopkinsville and Bastogne Avenue in Fort Campbell, Kentucky. The college provides high quality, affordable education and awards certificates, diplomas and associate degrees in technical areas and the Associate in Arts and Associate in Science for those persons transferring to programs at four-year colleges and universities. A strong commitment to community economic development, customized workforce training and adult and continuing education makes the college a vital force in its service areas. The proposed program with its embedded credentials addresses the above components of the mission statement. This program conforms to the mission of HCC by providing workers with technical skills needed to compete and succeed into today s allied health workforce. B. Program Quality and Student Success The Associate in Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant Degree program prepares students to assist in a physical therapy office including data collection and application of appropriate therapy. The program will prepare students to sit for the national licensing examination for the physical therapist assistant. Graduates will be able to find employment in hospitals and other physical therapy settings. Apr 9-22-11 C. Program Demand/Unnecessary Duplication Hopkinsville Community College currently offers other programs in the allied health field. These fields including physical therapy are expected to be among the fastest growing occupations in Hopkinsville s service area over the coming years. The proposed Associates in Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant Degree program will enhance the current HCC allied health offerings and provide another pathway into the healthcare industry for Hopkinsville students. ii
According to both the Kentucky Labor Market Information (KYLMI) system and the Tennessee Labor Market Information (TNLMI), Physical Therapist Assistants have a nationally bright outlook in terms of employment. Both states expect openings in this field to grow between now and 2022, and exceed the average projected growth for all occupations. Additionally, Physical Therapist Assistants can expect to earn a strong median annual wage of over $50,000. There are currently 114 openings for PTAs in Tennessee, with both Montgomery County (which includes Clarksville just across the state line) and its adjacent county of Dickson listed as two of the counties with the fewest available candidates per opening in this field. Tennessee reports over 410 people were employed as PTAs in the two development areas that include Clarksville and Nashville in 2012. Physical Therapist Assistants are listed as one of the top 50 fastest growing occupations in the Pennyrile region of Kentucky, with a projected 37% growth in the field by 2020. Both Kentucky and Tennessee project 41% growth in this field state-wide. Kentucky expects 94 openings for physical therapist assistants annually. D. Cost and Funding of the Proposed Program The general education courses needed for the Associates in Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant Degree program are currently offered at HCC. The new program will be housed in dedicated space in a new facility funded with Build Smart Campaign dollars. The campaign includes some monies for necessary equipment to properly outfit spaces for new programs. HCC also has a strong partnership with the main local healthcare facility in Hopkinsville. The President and Chief Executive Officer as well as the Chief Physical Therapist employed by the facility have agreed to partner with HCC to allow the use of their facility and equipment. Discipline specific faculty members will be hired through the use of Perkins funds, budget reallocation and tuition revenue. E. Program Review and Assessment All academic programs participate in the HCC program review and evaluation process on an annual basis. The process evaluates program strengths, weaknesses, and needed improvements. An advisory board will be created to provide local industry stakeholder input. F. Conclusion The proposed Associate in Applied Science Physical Therapist Assistant Degree program is consistent with the missions of KCTCS and Hopkinsville Community College and supports the statewide postsecondary education strategic agenda and the statewide strategic implementation plan. There is an approved curriculum for the degree program. Local and state needs support the establishment of this degree program. Hopkinsville Community College has the resources available to implement the program successfully. iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS Proposal for Initiation of a New Degree/Diploma Program..i Executive Summary..ii New Program Request Form. 1 A. Centrality to the Institution s Mission and Consistency with State s Goals...2 B. Program Quality and Student Success...5 C. Program Demand/Unnecessary Duplication...12 D. Cost and Funding of Proposed Program...18 E. Program Review and Assessment...19 Appendix A Faculty Roster Form...23 Appendix B New Program Budget Calculation Sheet...24 Appendix C Letters of Support....30 iv
PROGRAM REQUEST FORM Hopkinsville Community College Institution Submitting Proposal Associate in Applied Science Degree Designation as on Diploma Physical Therapist Assistant Title of Proposed Degree Program Diploma Certificate Intended Date of Implementation Fall 2017 New Program Proposal 1
Evaluation Criteria A. Centrality to the Institution s Mission and Consistency with State s Goals 1. List the objectives of the proposed program. These objectives should deal with the specific institutional and societal needs that this program will address. The objectives of the Hopkinsville Community College (HCC) Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program are to: Provide a rigorous, high quality curriculum that produces graduates with the skills, knowledge, and abilities required for work in the PTA industry Provide program graduates that meet the needs and expectations of the local and state allied health industry sector Provide a career pathway in the physical therapy field Provide the basic foundations of allied health coursework and knowledge for students wishing to transfer to a four year institution 2. Explain how the proposed program relates to the institutional mission and strategic plan. The proposed Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Physical Therapist Assistant is fully consistent with the missions of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) and Hopkinsville Community College. See HCC s mission below: Hopkinsville Community College promotes excellence in teaching and learning by offering: Degree, diploma, and certificate programs and courses that enable students to transfer to four-year institutions, and acquire the knowledge and skills for new or continued employment. Developmental, academic and support services that promotes student success. Customized business and industry training. Continuing education and community outreach. Adult education. This program conforms to the mission of HCC by providing workers with technical skills needed to compete and succeed in today s allied health workforce. New Program Proposal 2
3. Explain how the proposed program addresses the state s postsecondary education strategic agenda. (Address all that apply.) The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education s (CPE) Strategic Agenda for 2011-15, Stronger by Degrees seeks to strengthen the Commonwealth. Of the four statewide policy objectives college readiness; student success; research, economic, and community development; and, efficiency and innovation two apply directly to the Physical Therapist Assistant program proposal. Policy Objective 4: Increase high-quality degree production and completion rates at all levels and close achievement gaps, particularly for lower-income, underprepared, and underrepresented minority students. Strategy 4.2: Provide institution and student incentives to increase high-quality Degree production and completion rates. Strategy 4.4: Support new pathways for adult learners to enroll and complete postsecondary degrees and credentials. The Physical Therapist Assistant AAS program will address Policy Objective 4 in that HCC will increase high quality degree production and close achievement gaps in the service region. The achievement gaps will be closed due to the additional curriculum courses which would be offered in the new program. The addition of the Physical Therapist Assistant program will also provide new pathways for adult learners to enroll and complete postsecondary degrees and credentials. Policy Objective 7: Increase educational attainment and quality of life in Kentucky communities through regional stewardship, public service, and community outreach. Strategy 7.1: Strengthen and expand partnerships with business, industry, government, non-profit, and other educational entities to meet Kentucky s workforce and community needs. The Physical Therapist Assistant program will further the statewide implementation plan in that it will help meet the need for high-quality credentials that allow individuals to be successful in their work, life, and communities, while at the same time helping to meet the goal to increased degree production and educational attainment. Our region has a need for highly trained personnel in the area of Physical Therapist Assistant and allied health. By providing training at the certificate, diploma and degree level, HCC will be responding to industry needs and addressing the strategic agenda set in place by the Kentucky CPE. Students will now have more enrolling course options in the allied health area which in return will benefit the student and the local community. Offering the AAS in Physical Therapist Assistant will allow HCC to address the strategic agenda and help to strengthen the New Program Proposal 3
Commonwealth by degrees. The Physical Therapist Assistant program will allow HCC to offer a degree program that will prepare students to acquire the knowledge and skills for new employment, advancement in their current employment, or continued education; as well as; transfer to a four-year institution. 4. Explain how the proposed program furthers the statewide implementation plan. http://www.cpe.ky.gov/planning/strongerbydegrees/implementation.htm The Physical Therapist Assistant program will further the statewide implementation plan in that it will help meet the need for high-quality credentials that allow individuals to be successful in their work, life, and communities, while at the same time helping to meet the goal to increase degree production and educational attainment. New Program Proposal 4
B. Program Quality and Student Success The curriculum should be structured to meet the stated objectives and student learning outcomes of the program. 1. List all student learning outcomes. General Education Competencies: Students should prepare for twenty-first century challenges by gaining: A. Knowledge of human cultures and the physical and natural worlds through study in the sciences and mathematics, social sciences, humanities, histories, languages, and the arts. B. Intellectual and practical skills, including inquiry and analysis critical and creative thinking written and oral communication quantitative literacy information literacy teamwork and problem solving C. Personal and social responsibility, including civic knowledge and engagement (local and global) intercultural knowledge and competence ethical reasoning and action foundations and skills for lifelong learning D. Integrative and applied learning, including synthesis and advanced accomplishment across general and specialized skills. AAS in Physical Therapist Assistant Core Technical Competencies: 1. Describe the scope and function of the physical therapist assistant. 2. Implement the physical therapy plan of care as directed by the physical therapist. 3. Perform selected data-collection measurements as directed by the physical therapist. 4. Progress or modify selected patient interventions within the plan of care based on clinical indications and observed patient status. 5. Demonstrate patient care in a safe, ethical and legal manner. 6. Function as an effective health care provider within the community and health care system. 7. Educate patients, clients, family members and others within the plan of care and/or in group education programs. 8. Identify career development and lifelong learning opportunities. New Program Proposal 5
9. Relate the principles of wellness and disease to physical therapy for individuals across the lifespan. 10. Demonstrate problem solving skills in administering physical therapy care. 11. Document patient care in a manner which meets all state, federal, and regulatory guidelines. 12. Relate the anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary, and integumentary systems to physical therapy. 13. Apply the principles of kinesiology and biomechanics to physical therapy. 2. Explain how the curriculum achieves the program-level student learning outcomes by describing the relationship between the overall curriculum or the major curricular components and the program objectives. The 64-67 credit hour Associate in Applied Science Physical Therapist Assistant degree is comprised of general education and technical courses. The general education core will enable KCTCS colleges to graduate students who are intellectually flexible, articulate, reflective, creative, and prepared for continuous learning. For all students, this implies some understanding of the value of higher education and the world of work and career fields related to their own abilities, interests, and needs. The technical outcomes are completed through technical core and elective course work. Competencies are attached to the respective cores and will be assessed in relevant courses. 3. Highlight any distinctive qualities of this proposed program. The Associate in Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant will provide an additional credential for students interested in working in the allied health field. The additional credential will support the division s ability to accommodate a greater number of students interested in healthcare careers. Physical Therapist Assistant graduates find employment in hospitals, outpatient clinics, private offices, schools, home health agencies, sports and fitness facilities. As health care expands, the demand for Physical Therapist Assistants is expected to grow four times the average for all occupations. 4. Will this program replace any existing program(s) or tracks within an existing program? No, this program is not replacing any existing programs or track within an existing program. 5. Include the projected faculty/student in major ratio. The projected ratio of faculty to student in the major courses is a maximum of 1:15. New Program Proposal 6
6. Is there a specialized accrediting agency related to this program? If yes, identify the agency. Do you plan to seek accreditation? If yes, explain your plans for accreditation. If no, explain your rationale for not seeking accreditation. The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) is the accrediting body for Physical Therapist Assistant Programs. Hopkinsville Community College s Physical Therapist Assistant Program will follow guidelines and criteria established by CAPTE. 7. Attach SACS Faculty Roster Form. See Appendix A. 8. Describe the library resources available to support this program. Hopkinsville Community College provides modern library facilities and collections on both campuses and provides services in the following areas: reference, circulation, bibliographic instruction, and inter-library loans. A large variety of online databases as well as online reference works and electronic books are available to students. The automated catalog provides access to the system-wide KCTCS library collection. Computer centers are set up at the libraries and internet capabilities are available. The campus libraries vary in size but are large enough to adequately house their collections and make them readily accessible to students. The libraries have successfully met requirements for accreditation requirements, contributing to the successful Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) Commission on Colleges accreditation. The librarians meet the standards published by the Association of College and Research Libraries regarding information literacy instruction and other standards pertinent to community college libraries. 9. Describe the physical facilities and instructional equipment available to support this program. A new facility will be built on the campus of Hopkinsville Community College and space will be provided for the Physical Therapist Assistant program. The classroom space will accommodate the students and will be equipped with media, audio, and video resources that support technology-enhanced instruction. A separate area for equipment with space for storage of supplies and other equipment will also be included. 10. Clearly state the admission and retention, and completion standards designed to encourage high quality. Admission criteria conform to current KCTCS standard college admissions criteria. Students pursuing an associate degree must meet minimum college readiness standards in mathematics, English, and reading. Student scoring below these cutoff scores are required to take developmental coursework. New Program Proposal 7
The Physical Therapist Assistant program will be a selective admission program. Progression in the Physical Therapist Assistant program is contingent upon achievement of a grade of C or above in each required course and maintenance of a 2.0 cumulative grade-point average or above (on a 4.0 scale). 11. Clearly state the degree completion requirements for the program. In order for a student to earn the AAS in PTA, at least 25 percent of the approved curriculum credits must be completed at MCTC. Students will need to complete at least 66-69 credit hours required for the credential, including the general education requirements, with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0. 12. Provide the following information for the program and for each track (some categories may not apply to all programs): AAS in Physical Therapist Assistant: Total number of hours required for degree: 66-69 Number of hours in general education: 26 Number of hours in degree program core: 40-43 Number of hours in track (if applicable): Number of hours in guided electives: 0 Number of hours in free electives: 0 13. Describe how the proposed program will articulate with related programs in the state. It should describe the extent to which student transfer has been explored and coordinated with other institutions. Physical Therapist Assistant programs in KCTCS all share a common curriculum, making credit transfer easy. Graduates are able to apply degree credit toward completion programs at most public postsecondary institutions in the Commonwealth. New Program Proposal 8
14. List courses under the appropriate curricular headings. General Education Courses Course Title Course Description Credit Hours ENG 101 Writing I Focuses on academic writing. Provides instruction in drafting and revising essays that express ideas in Standard English, including reading critically, thinking logically, responding to texts, addressing specific audiences, researching and documenting sources. Includes review of grammar, mechanics and usage. BIO 137 BIO 139 PSY 110 PSY 223 Human Anatomy and Physiology Human Anatomy and Physiology II Heritage/Humani ties Course General Psychology Developmental Psychology Thee interrelationship of structure and function of each body system will be presented in two semesters. The first semester will include basic chemistry, cell structure cell physiology, metabolism, tissues and integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. The second semester continues the study of the interrelationship of organ system, including the endocrine, reproductive, cardiovascular, lymphatic, digestive, respiratory, and urinary systems. Any Heritage/Humanities course may be selected from the approved list Introduces the history, methods and content of modern psychology. Covers the history and systems of psychology, psychological research, physiological psychology, psychological processes, developmental psychology, personality, abnormal behavior and social psychology. Introduces the principles of developmental psychology as seen in human growth over the entire lifespan, focusing primarily on infancy through adolescence. Emphasizes theory and data relating to developmental aspects of cognition, language, and personality. 3 N 4 N 4 N 3 3 N 3 New Y/N N MAT 150 College Algebra Oral Communications Includes selected topics in algebra and analytic geometry. Develops manipulative skills and concepts required for further study in mathematics. Includes linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic and piecewise functions; systems of equations; and an introduction to analytic geometry. (Students may not receive credit for both MAT 150 and any other College Algebra or Pre-calculus course. Credit not available on the basis of special exam.) 3 N 3 N New Program Proposal 9
Technical Courses Prefix & Number PTA 101 PTA 125 PTA 150 PTA 160 PTA 170 PTA 200 Course Title Course Description Credit New Hours Computer Literacy Any Computer Literacy course may be selected from the approved list. 3 N Orientation to Includes orientation to the profession of physical therapy, 5 Y Physical Therapy legal aspects of physical therapy practice, Practice interdisciplinary team, cultural diversity, medical terminology, research and evidence-based practice, and introductory patient-care skills such as communication, aseptic techniques, body mechanics, safety procedures, wheelchair management, patient transfers, patient positioning and draping, vital signs, identification and fitting of ambulation aids, basic gait training, patient and consumer education. Neuroanatomy for the PTA Functional Anatomy and Kinesiology Medical and Surgical Conditions in Physical Therapy Clinical Practicum I Modalities and Procedures in Physical Therapy Encompasses the neuroanatomy of the central and peripheral nervous systems and applies these concepts to common neurological pathologies found in rehabilitation. Emphasizes the structure and function of the musculoskeletal system, the relationship with biomechanical principles, basic physical principles, and the mechanical aspects of human motion. Includes muscle testing, flexibility testing, goniometry, and aspects of normal gait and posture. Includes the study of health and disease of all age groups with an emphasis on the etiology, pathology, prevention, data collection, and physical therapy interventions in selected medical and surgical conditions encountered in physical therapy. Includes clinical observation and practice of selected physical therapy interventions and data collection with the application of knowledge from previous/concurrent PTA courses and general education coursework. Includes the basic physical science principles of selected physical therapy interventions, data collection, and selected physiotherapy interventions including wound therapy, compression therapy, safety procedures, gait training, traction, massage, superficial heat and cold, deep heat modalities, electrotherapy, ultraviolet radiation, hydrotherapy, and documentation. 1 Y 6 Y 3 Y 1 Y 5 Y New Program Proposal 10
PTA 220 PTA 240 PTA 250 PTA 260 PTA 280 Physical Therapy Principles and Procedures Clinical Practicum II Neurological Rehabilitation in Physical Therapy Seminar in Physical Therapy Clinical Practicum III Includes the basic physical science principles of selected physical therapy interventions, data collection, and selected physiotherapy interventions including wound therapy, compression therapy, safety procedures, gait training, traction, massage, superficial heat and cold, deep heat modalities, electrotherapy, ultraviolet radiation, hydrotherapy, and documentation. 5 Y Includes clinical observation and practice of selected 2 Y physical therapy interventions and data collection with the application of knowledge from previous/concurrent PTA courses and general education coursework. This course will entail four consecutive weeks of full-time clinical experience. In order to participate in this clinical experience, the student must be earning a grade of C or better in all co-requisite courses. Focuses on rehabilitation procedures, including assistive 5 Y devices, for patients of all age groups with disabilities resulting from brain injury, spinal cord injury, and genetic/congenital disorders. Includes normal growth and development and the rationale and techniques of neuromuscular re-education. Presents topics to assist the student in the transition to 2 Y physical therapist assistant including trends, specialized practice, patient services, and the employment process. Utilizes case studies to assist students to integrate theory and practice. Includes clinical observation and practice of physical 5 Y therapy interventions and data collection with the application of knowledge from previous and concurrent PTA courses and general education coursework. By the end of the clinical experience the student will demonstrate an entry level of practice. Program Total 66-69 15. Describe planned alternative methods of program delivery involving greater use of technology, distance education, and/or accelerated degree designs, to increase efficiency, better address student educational and workforce needs, and maximize student success, for both traditional and non-traditional students. The general education courses required for the program are available via distance learning, including communication, social/behavioral sciences, and heritage/humanities courses. All HCC courses are technology enhanced regardless of delivery mode. New Program Proposal 11
C. Program Demand/Unnecessary Duplication Proposed programs must respond to the needs of the academy and to larger economic and social environments. Thus, the institution must demonstrate demand for the proposed program. All proposed programs must address student demand. Programs must also address either employer demand or academic disciplinary needs. 1. Student Demand: Clearly describe all evidence of student demand, typically in the form of surveys of potential students and/or enrollments in related programs at the institution. a. Provide evidence of student demand within your area of geographic responsibility as well as the state and national levels. HCC students were surveyed at random to determine interest in New Allied Health AAS programs, including Physical Therapy Assistant. Seventy-two of the surveyed students indicated an interest in enrolling in an Allied Health program, and of those, 50 (69.4%) stated they were interested in an AAS program in the field being offered at HCC. A majority of survey respondents (82/102) indicated they believed an associate program in this field would benefit local students. b. Identify the applicant pool and how they will be reached. The student pool for this program will include traditional and non-traditional students with an interest in a career in physical therapy. The Physical Therapist Assistant program will provide a pathway for students who currently attend our local career and technical high schools. The applicant pool will be access in a variety of methods such as mailings, website, Facebook, phone calls, emails, and community events. c. Describe the student recruitment and selection process. Students are recruited through college recruiters, and program personnel will utilize existing marketing avenues to promote the PTA program. Recruiters as well as Program Coordinators work with school systems in the HCC service area. Recruiters and Coordinators participate in college visitations at local high schools, respond to inquiries, and provide informational mailings to high school seniors in our service area. College advisors and other key staff in the allied health area will be made aware of the program so that they can inform healthcare industry entities with whom they make contact of this potential opportunity for their employees. HCC promotes the college and its services through community events throughout the academic year such as The Super Sunday initiative, holiday events and collegesponsored activities that bring the general public to the HCC campus. New Program Proposal 12
Technology is central to the HCC recruitment campaign. The college web site provides an array of information including application guidelines, program descriptions, class schedules, and student support services. Scholarship information and student activities are also highlighted. Marketing data provided by KCTCS is used to determine the most popular media outlets, in order to develop campaigns designed to reach the highest number of potential students. The college also uses digital marketing such as Facebook for promotional purposes. d. Identify the primary feeders for the program. Primary feeders for the Physical Therapist Assistant program will be the Area Technology Centers (ATCs) and Career and Technical Centers (CTCs) located in the area school districts. Adult Education Centers and the Career One-Stop Centers will also contribute to the student pool. e. Provide any evidence of a projected net increase in total student enrollments to the campus as a result of the proposed program. College enrollment will increase as a result of adding the Physical Therapist Assistant AAS degree to the credential inventory. The Physical Therapist Assistant program will assist in both increases in student enrollment as well as student retention in the allied health program. The program will give potential students in the region more opportunities and choices, therefore student enrollment should increase. f. Project estimated student demand for the first five years of the program. Academic Student Enrollment Projected Degrees Conferred Year 2017 15 0 2018 30 15 2019 30 15 2020 30 15 2021 30 15 2. Employer Demand: Clearly describe evidence of employer demand. Such evidence may include employer surveys, current labor market analyses, and future human resources projections. Where appropriate, evidence should demonstrate employers preferences for graduates of the proposed program over persons having alternative existing credentials and employers willingness to pay higher salaries to graduates of the proposed program. New Program Proposal 13
a. Describe the types of jobs available for graduates, average wages for these jobs, and the number of anticipated openings for each type of jobs in the institution s area of geographic responsibility. Physical therapist assistants work under the direction and supervision of physical therapists. They assist with patients rehabilitative activities to help reduce pain and improve mobility. The Physical Therapist Assistant AAS degree will prepare graduates for immediate entry into the workforce. The proposed Associates in Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant Degree program will enhance the current HCC allied health offerings and provide another pathway into the healthcare industry for Hopkinsville students. Physical Therapist Assistants are listed as one of the top 50 fastest growing occupations in the Pennyrile region of Kentucky, with a projected 37% growth in the field by 2020 and an average hourly wage of $16.60 an hour and average annual wage of $34,528. The city of Hopkinsville is located within the Clarksville/Montgomery County, Tennessee metropolitan statistical area. Labor Market information indicates that Montgomery County has among the fewest candidates per position for Physical Therapist Assistants in Tennessee. b. Describe the types of jobs available for graduates, average wages for these jobs, and the number of anticipated openings for each type of jobs in Kentucky. According to both the Kentucky Labor Market Information (KYLMI) system and the Tennessee Labor Market Information (TNLMI), Physical Therapist Assistants have a nationally bright outlook in terms of employment. Both states expect openings in this field to grow between now and 2022, and exceed the average projected growth for all occupations. Both Kentucky and Tennessee project 41% growth in this field state-wide. Kentucky expects 94 openings for physical therapist assistants annually. Additionally, Physical Therapist Assistants can expect to earn a strong median salary of $23.71 per hour or a median annual wage of over $50,000. The Associate in Applied Science degree in Physical Therapist Assistant will prepare graduates for local, state, and regional job markets, with some possible opportunities nationally. New Program Proposal 14
c. Describe the types of jobs available for graduates, average wages for these jobs, and the number of anticipated openings for each type of jobs at the national level. A review of national employment opportunities was conducted through the Occupational Outlook Handbook provided by the U.S Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. On a national level, the job title Physical Therapist Assistants is listed with a projected employment level of 131,770 in 2015 and a wage of $21.44 per hour. Employment of physical therapist assistants and aides is projected to grow 41 percent from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for physical therapy services is expected to increase in response to the healthcare needs of an older population and growing rates of chronic conditions such as diabetes and obesity. 3. Academic Disciplinary Needs: Clearly describe all evidence justifying a new program based on changes in the academic discipline or other academic reasons. a. If the proposed program is an advanced credential (diploma to AAS), explain the new practice or licensure requirements in the profession and/or requirements by specialized accrediting agencies that necessitate a new program. Offering this degree will allow for the educational development of employees to better serve the needs of the community. No new practice or licensure requirements in the profession have prompted this application. No requirements by specialized agencies have necessitated the application; however, the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Hopkinsville Community College will seek accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), which will allow students to qualify to sit for the National Physical Therapy exam once course work is successfully completed. 4. Similar programs: A similar program is defined as a program with the same or closely related CIP code at the same degree level. A proposed program will not be considered unnecessarily duplicative if it serves a different student population than existing programs and/or if its curriculum is distinctive from that of existing programs at other public institutions in Kentucky. New Program Proposal 15
a. Identify similar programs in other SREB states and in the nation. Based on the 2015-16 KCTCS Catalog, the AAS degree in Physical Therapist Assistant is available at the following KCTCS colleges: Hazard Community and Technical College Jefferson Community and Technical College Madisonville Community College Somerset Community College Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College West Kentucky Community and Technical College Tennessee is the neighboring state to Hopkinsville, Kentucky. Below are the institutions in that SREB state that offer the program. Daymar College Volunteer State Community College Roane State Community College Chattanooga State Community College Jackson State Community College South College Southwest Tennessee Community College Walters State Community College b. If CPE records indicate similar programs exist in Kentucky, does the proposed program differ from existing programs in the state? If yes, please explain. The program will not differ from existing KCTCS programs. Curricula within KCTCS institutions is equivalent due to a collaborative system of curriculum and program development. c. Does the proposed program serve a different student population (i.e., students in a different geographic area) from existing programs? If yes, please explain. Offering the PTA Program in Hopkinsville will allow HCC to serve citizen in our service area. New Program Proposal 16
d. Is access to existing programs limited? If yes, please explain. The geographic location of the other programs does limit access to citizens of Hopkinsville. Each college is listed below with mileage distance: Hazard Community and Technical College 271 miles Jefferson Community and Technical College 172 miles Madisonville Community College 35 miles Somerset Community College 178 miles Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College 213 miles West Kentucky Community and Technical College 75 miles e. Is there excess demand for existing similar programs? If yes, please explain. Local healthcare providers have shared that there is additional capacity for this program to be offered locally. While the program is offered at sister institutions near Hopkinsville, students residing in significant portions of HCC s service area require an hour or more commute. HCC serves a substantial number of military families from Fort Campbell and surrounding communities, including northern Tennessee. Military family members desiring to pursue the program face lengthy commutes which serves as an unfortunate burden and added barrier. The lack of an affordable local program serves as a major disadvantage for military families and others seeking to pursue their desired educational path. Additionally, many students in the HCC service area cannot afford reliable transportation even for shorter distances within the HCC service area. The recently initiated local public bus service provides evidence of the local residents transportation needs. Despite the new public bus system, low-cost public transportation options to communities outside of the Hopkinsville remains a challenge to local citizens. Without local access to the program, many citizens are unable to travel to enroll in a degree program that could help them earn a living wage. f. Is there collaboration between the proposed program and existing programs? Collaboration occurs through established KCTCS curriculum committees. Committee membership consists of representatives from each KCTCS institution offering the program. The curriculum committee is responsible for development, review and revision of curriculum to be shared across all KCTCS colleges. New Program Proposal 17
D. Cost and Funding of the Proposed Program The resource requirements and planned sources of funding of the proposed program must be detailed in order to assess the adequacy of the resources to support a quality program. This assessment is to ensure that the program will be efficient in its resource utilization and to assess the impact of this proposed program on the institution s overall need for funds. 1. Will this program require additional resources? Y or N. If yes, provide a brief summary of additional resources that will be needed to implement this program over the next five years. Yes. Hopkinsville will have to employ two new full-time faculty members. One would also serve as Program Coordinator. Perkins dollars, in addition to some of the college s reallocated general funds will be used to fund the positions. Hopkinsville will also to purchase needed equipment and supplies. 2. Will this program impact existing programs and/or organizational units within your institution? If yes, please describe the impact. Yes. This program will positively impact the allied health division at HCC. Its implementation will provide an additional career pathway for those students interested in the healthcare field, which, in turn, will allow the College to serve a larger population of students. 3. Provide adequate documentation to demonstrate sufficient return on investment to the state to offset new costs and justify approval for the proposed program. Offering the AAS in Physical Therapist Assistant will provide an additional pathway for students who desire to work in the healthcare field. This program will attract students to Hopkinsville Community College which will increase enrollment. An increase in enrollment will generate additional tuition revenue. Expenses will be addressed through new tuition revenue, Perkins funding, and reallocation of college resources. Cost/Funding Explanation The funding sources and breakdown of budget expenses/requirements are located in Appendix B New Program Budget Calculation Sheet. New Program Proposal 18
E. Program Review and Assessment Describe program evaluation procedures for the proposed program. These procedures may include evaluation of courses and faculty by students, administrators, and departmental personnel as appropriate. Program review procedures shall include standards and guidelines for the assessment of student outcomes implied by the program objectives and consistent with the institutional mission. 1. For each assessment method, please provide indicators of achievement and frequency of data collection: a. Which components will be evaluated? HCC evaluates all technical programs annually. These annual reviews include assessment of the program competencies (both internal and external, direct and indirect), program and class enrollment, faculty usage, and evaluation of overall strengths and weaknesses. The program coordinator will review data collected for the programmatic accreditation process, i.e. enrollments, attrition/retention, graduate performance on credentialing exams, placement. Faculty are evaluated by students annually and receive colleague evaluations and are evaluated by their supervisors annually using the KCTCS Planning and Performance document. b. When will the components be evaluated? Annual program evaluations are due to the Chief Academic Officer at the end of May every academic year for review. Analysis for suggested areas of improvement is undertaken by the CAO during the summer for implementation the following fall. Student evaluations of faculty are undertaken in the fall and also in the spring for new faculty as per KCTCS policy. Peer and supervisor evaluations occur in the spring. Hopkinsville will also follow the assessment time frame put forth by the program accrediting body. c. When will the data be collected? Assessment of program components is undertaken throughout the academic year by the program coordinator. Data for faculty, peer and supervisor evaluations are collected through defined windows at appropriate times. New Program Proposal 19
d. How will the data be collected? Program competency data will be collected by the program coordinator and drawn from a variety of sources including use of assignments, exams or other assessment instruments as deemed appropriate by the program coordinator and the accrediting agency. Other data items required by the annual program review will be collected as needed by the program coordinator. Student evaluations of teaching are conducted using an online survey. Although the survey is online class time is set aside to provide students the opportunity to complete the survey. Responses are collected and summarized in the office of Institutional Effectiveness and distributed to supervisors and faculty. e. What will be the benchmarks to be achieved? Benchmarks include the established benchmark for other internal assessment of program competencies. (These may include pre/posttest of skills and knowledge, evaluation of class assignments, or other internal measures of program competency achievement as deemed appropriate by the program coordinator.) Hopkinsville will adhere to guidelines set forth by the accrediting agency. The Benchmark for colleague and supervisor evaluation is considered to be an overall score of meets expectations (a four on a five point scale). f. What individuals or groups will be responsible for data collection? Program Coordinators are responsible for collecting all data necessary to complete annual program reviews including measurements of student achievement in program competencies. The Director of Institutional Effectiveness is responsible for coordinating students evaluations of teaching, and the office of Academic Affairs is responsible for coordinating colleague evaluations. g. How will the data and findings be shared with faculty? Faculty members will be directly involved in both accreditation reporting, program review and institutional effectiveness evaluation and planning. The Division Chairperson and the Chief Academic Officer review the colleague and performance evaluation and make a determination of overall job performance which is shared with the faculty member. New Program Proposal 20
h. How will the data be used for making programmatic improvements? The Chief Academic Officer reviews all annual program evaluations and works with the Program Coordinator and Division Chairperson to address any needed changes in the program. 2. What are the measures of teaching effectiveness? Faculty are evaluated annually through the KCTCS Planning, Performance, and Evaluation (PPE) process. The process involves initial agreement of the faculty member and supervisor, a mid-year review of progress, and a final performance review and assignment of a rating. Additionally, students are encouraged to complete an evaluation of instruction in every course each semester. Students access this survey online. 3. What efforts to improve effectiveness will be pursued based on these measures? The PPE process requires identification of areas of strength and areas needing improvement. This allows plans for improvement in needed areas to be carried forward within the plans for the next year. 4. What are the plans to evaluate students post-graduate success? Program coordinators and the Director of Institutional Effectiveness follow-up with program graduates. Also, a survey is sent to employers of graduates inquiring about graduate performance and their employer satisfaction with graduates. External evaluation will occur through a community-based advisory committee for the Physical Therapist Assistant program. The advisory committee provides input regarding workforce needs and expectations of employers in the field. This group of experts will be crucial to the continuous improvement of the program. Most advisory committees have at least one student and one graduate of the program as members. New Program Proposal 21
APPENDICES New Program Proposal 22
Appendix A: Faculty Roster Faculty Roster Form Qualifications of Full-Time and Part-Time Faculty Name of Institution: Hopkinsville Community College Name of Primary Department, Academic Program, or Discipline: Physical Therapist Assistant Academic Term(s) Included: Date Form Completed: 11/16/2015 1 2 3 4 NAME (F, P) COURSES TAUGHT Including Term, Course Number & Title, Credit Hours (D, UN, UT, G) To Be Hired: 1 Full-Time Faculty/Coordinator 1 Full-Time Faculty PTA 1501, PTA 1502, PTA 120, PTA 121, PTA 170, PTA 222, PTA 223, PTA 232, PTA 233, PTA202, PTA 203, PTA 240, PTA 254, PTA 255, PTA 260, PTA 280 ACADEMIC DEGREES& COURSEWORK Relevant to Courses Taught, Including Institution & Major List specific graduate coursework, if needed Will meet accreditation standards. OTHER QUALIFICATIONS & COMMENTS Related to Courses Taught F, P: Full-time or Part-time; D, UN, UT, G: Developmental, Undergraduate Nontransferable, Undergraduate Transferable, Graduate New Program Proposal 23
Appendix B: New Program Budget Calculation Sheet New Program Proposal 24
New Program Budget Calculation Sheet Please complete highlighted fields below as necessary. Select College: Hopkinsville Community College Name of Program: Physical Therapy Select Program Group: Allied Health What is the First Academic Year of Program Enrollment 2017 How many Credit Hours will it take to complete the program 69 23.00 Average SCH per year Gen Ed Credit Hours 26 13.00 Gen Ed SCH in first year Estimate the percent of Gen Ed SCH taken by these students in there 1st Year 50.00% Program Specific Credit Hours 43 Enter the estimated Tuition Rate for Academic Year 2017 $ 156 $ 161 $ 167 $ 173 $ 179 $ 185 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Enter the annual job demand for Graduates of this program. (please use the Supply and Demand data from DSS) 99 99 99 99 How many of these job vacancies do you plan to fill with graduates of this program each year? 15 20 20 20 Total Fall Enrollment Headcount Needed 26 53 74 79 79 79 Total Credit Hours (Program and Gen Ed.) 598 1,219 1,702 1,817 1,817 1,817