Minnesota college to add online degree program for military personnel

Minnesota college to add online degree program for military personnel

Officials from Lake Superior College (LSC) have announced that the school has received a $48,500 grant from the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities' HealthForce Center of Excellence to create an online degree program that will allow military-trained physical therapy personnel to meet clinical standards.

At present, physical therapists trained by the armed forces do not meet the necessary educational requirements to practice outside of the military, according to the Duluth News Tribune.

"This program will address a recognized shortage of physical therapist assistants and offer a career ladder step for our deserving veterans and military personnel," said Jane Worley, director of the physical therapist assistant program at LSC.

The degree offering, which is expected to be launched in the fall of 2011, will be available for active military personnel and veterans.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapists is expected to grow by 30 percent over the next 10 years, faster than the average for all occupations.

Online education can be a flexible option for those who are looking to earn their degree but find it difficult to attend conventional on-campus classes.

By Mark Danson