North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) and the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) have recently developed an articulation agreement that will provide NIACC Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) students with a seamless pathway to earning a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology at UNI. The agreement also offers UNI Kinesiology students an efficient route to obtaining a PTA degree from NIACC, strengthening career opportunities in the field of physical therapy.

Strengthening Education and Career Pathways

“The articulation agreement between the UNI Kinesiology Department and NIACC Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program will provide a smooth transition and structured pathway for both NIACC PTA students who wish to pursue further education as well as for UNI Kinesiology students who are seeking a career in physical therapy,” said Susan Callanan, PTA Program Leader at NIACC.

Under this agreement, NIACC PTA students will receive credit toward the UNI Kinesiology major for some of their PTA coursework. This streamlined approach allows students to complete both an Associate Degree in PTA and a Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology in four years, equipping them with advanced knowledge and skills. “The advanced knowledge from obtaining a Kinesiology degree will strengthen a PTA graduate’s knowledge base and skill level within the clinical arena,” Callanan added.

For students aiming to become Physical Therapists (PTs), this pathway provides essential foundational coursework and hands-on patient care experience prior to a graduate level PT program.  “This path provides students with immediate immersion into the physical therapy field, professional development, networking opportunities and confirmation of their career choice,” said Callanan.

UNI Kinesiology students also benefit from this agreement, as they will be awarded credit in the NIACC PTA program for some of their coursework. This allows students to transition from their undergraduate studies at UNI to NIACC and earn a PTA degree in under two years, significantly expanding their career options within the healthcare industry.

A Student Perspective

Paige Danger, a NIACC PTA student from Iowa Falls/Ackley, expressed enthusiasm about the agreement, stating, “I think that the Kinesiology articulation agreement is an amazing opportunity for students at both UNI and NIACC who want to continue their education. It makes the transfer process smoother for those pursuing their PTA license or a Bachelor’s degree.”

Danger, who has considered transferring to UNI for a degree in health sciences, sees this agreement as a beneficial option for students who want to deepen their understanding of physical therapy while staying on track to complete their education efficiently. “This would help me gain more knowledge about the human body within the same timeframe as a normal BA from an AA degree,” she noted. “If you are thinking about furthering your education or wanting a Bachelor’s in Health Sciences, this is a great program, and this agreement makes the transfer process much smoother and faster.”

A UNI Perspective

Dr. Fabio Fantana, Head (and professor) of the Department of Kinesiology and Athletic Training at UNI, emphasized the benefits of the agreement for both institutions. “This articulation agreement benefits students from both institutions in several key ways,” he explained. “It facilitates a smoother transfer of credits, allowing students to plan their academic futures with greater certainty. It also streamlines coursework, reducing both time and financial costs, and provides a clearer pathway for NIACC PTA students who intend to pursue clinical doctorate programs in physical therapy.”

“Transfer students make up a large portion of our student body,” Fantana added. “We have a longstanding relationship with NIACC faculty, and we really enjoy receiving students from NIACC. NIACC students have a strong reputation in our department for being well-prepared to succeed in the Kinesiology major.”

Expanding Opportunities for Students

Both NIACC and UNI are committed to providing high-quality education with excellent facilities and dedicated faculty.  This articulation agreement enhances the existing partnership between the two institutions and expands opportunities for students interested in careers in physical therapy and related health sciences.

By making degree completion more efficient and accessible, this agreement helps students achieve their academic and career goals while strengthening the overall healthcare workforce in Iowa and beyond.

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The mission of North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) is to enrich lives through comprehensive educational opportunities, a commitment to learner success, community engagement, and leadership. Founded in 1918, NIACC is a nationally-recognized, two-year college located in central North Iowa, serving approximately 3,000 career and transfer students each year. Recognized by the Aspen Institute as one of the nation’s leading community colleges, NIACC is where futures are found. Start your journey today at https://www.niacc.edu/apply-mkt/. Future, Found.