Frequently Asked Questions

 

Program Overview

What is the purpose of the Clinical Competency Certificate?

The APTA Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy Clinical Competency Certificate provides licensed physical therapists (PTs) and physical therapist assistants (PTAs) with a comprehensive study of the fundamental knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to deliver safe, evidence-based patient care in the aquatic environment. This is the only certificate program sponsored by a component of the APTA specifically designed for aquatic physical therapy professionals.
 



Eligibility & Participation

I am not a licensed PT or PTA. Can I complete the program?

Our courses are specific to the physical therapy profession. You are welcome to take any on-demand courses offered in our education center, but please note:

  • The CEUs issued may not be applicable for your profession’s license renewal.
  • The 2-day in-person pool course is only open to licensed PTs and PTAs.
  • Those who are not licensed PTs or PTAs are not eligible to receive the Clinical Competency Certificate or complete the program.
 

What do I need to do to complete the program?

The program consists of:

  1. Eleven (11) e-learning courses (each 1–3 hours in length) with a post-test. These can be taken in any order, except for the seven pre-requisite courses, which must be completed before registering for the in-person course.
  2.  A 2-day in-person pool course that includes hands-on training and a practical and written exam.
  3. A passing score of 70% is required for each e-learning module and the in-person assessments.

Once all requirements are met, you will receive a certificate of completion, recognizing your clinical competency in aquatic physical therapy.

 

 

Certification & Continuing Education

If I complete this program, will I be a certified aquatic PT or PTA?

No. This is an assessment-based certificate program in aquatic physical therapy, not a board certification. The program is not recognized by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists (ABPTS), and participants are not granted a credential or board-certified designation. However, completion of the program demonstrates your clinical competency in aquatic physical therapy, and you will receive a certificate of completion that can be displayed as proof of specialized training.

Why did the Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy create a certificate program instead of a certification program?

After extensive research—including membership surveys, practice analysis, and multiple task forces—the Academy determined that an assessment-based certificate program best met the needs of the profession at this time. A specialist certification or fellowship program was considered but was not deemed feasible for the Academy’s membership.


Will I earn CEUs for this course?

CEUs are available for most licensed PTs and PTAs in the U.S.

Total CEU: 41.75 CEUs / 41.75 Contact Hours.

⚠️ CEUs NOT available in: AK, CO, HI, LA, NJ, NM, NV. 

⚠️CEUs NOT pre-approved in: AR, CA, DE, OH, TX. However, licensees may seek their own approval through their state licensing board.
✅ For PTs and PTAs in all other states, courses may be used for license renewal; ⚠️however, state regulations are subject to change. It is the responsibility of the attendee to verify approval and compliance with their state’s licensing board.
⚠️ For other disciplines (OT, OTA, ST, ATCs) – check with your licensing agency for continuing education credit eligibility. Reminder, other professions may only take the online courses. They may NOT attend the 2-day lab.
 

How many CEU's will I earn?

You can see a detailed chart here.


Program Logistics & Enrollment

How much does it cost?

See Investment Details for current pricing and bundled savings options.

Can I take the online courses without completing the full certificate program or having to attend the 2-day course?

Yes! You may take e-learning courses individually

Can students participate in this program?

Students may take the e-learning courses but are not eligible to register for the 2-day inperson lab course until they are licensed as a PT or PTA.

How long do I have to complete the program?

There is no time limit! You can revisit course materials anytime, and you will receive free updates if modules are revised, even after completing the program.

Can I exempt out of any courses if I have taken similar courses before?

No. The certificate program is designed as to be a structured learning experience. To ensure competency, participants must complete all required coursework, pass assessments, and demonstrate essential skills in the in-person pool course.
 



In-Person Pool Course Details

Where and when are pool courses offered?

Course dates and locations are listed at www.aquaticpt.org/certificate.

What is the schedule for the pool course?

  • Saturday: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM
  • Sunday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Approx. 7 hours of land lecture and 11 hours of pool lab
  • Class sizes vary based on pool availability (smallest = 11, largest = 30)
  • Instructor-to-student ratio: ~1:11

Can you bring the Clinical Competency program to my facility?

Yes! We offer on-site training for organizations looking to train an entire team while saving on travel expenses. 

Why don’t you offer courses in my state/region?

We are always looking for new host sites! If you know of a facility with a suitable pool and classroom space, please reach out.

Host sites receive:
✅ An honorarium
✅ Up to two complimentary registrations

Let us know if your facility is interested in hosting a course by completing this form!


Have More Questions?

🚀 Take the next step toward clinical competency in aquatic physical therapy today!

📩 Contact us at admin@aquaticpt.org for additional inquiries.