Occupational Therapist Assistant & Physiotherapist Assistant
| Study location | Canada, Ontario, Kitchener |
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| Type | Diploma, College |
| Nominal duration | 2 years, includes 3 field placements |
| Study language | English |
| Course code | 1111 |
| Tuition fee | CA$17,410 per year The fee is for the 2022–2023 academic year and includes tuition (CA$13,750), health insurance and ancillary charges. The fees displayed are estimates for two semesters and are subject to change. |
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| Registration fee | CA$400 one-time The registration fee includes the non-refundable application fee (CA$100) and the refundable deposit fee (CA$300). Please REVIEW the EdviseCanada`s fee policy. |
| Entry qualification | High School / Secondary Education (or higher) To be eligible for admission, you must possess a high school diploma including these required courses (or equivalents):
The entry qualification documents are accepted in the following languages: English. |
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| Language requirements | English If you are not from an English-speaking country, you must provide proof of your English language proficiency by submitting one of the following tests:
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| More information |
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Overview
This program is designed to prepare students with the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to perform their role as occupational therapist assistants and physiotherapist assistants (OTAs and PTAs). OTAs and PTAs are primarily responsible for the implementation of treatment plans to promote physical functioning or to enhance participation in activities of daily living for individuals with a wide range of health conditions.
The program integrates classroom theory with hands-on practical skills learning in living lab settings. To enhance critical thinking, decision making and leadership skills, the program makes use of diverse learning opportunities such as small group case-based learning, simulation exercises, applied learning projects and e-learning. Exposure to clinical experiences across a variety of clinical settings is integrated into the curriculum to ensure students have an opportunity to apply skills in a supervised setting.
Program structure
A working knowledge of word processing and/or keyboarding is required as the program curriculum makes use of computer-assisted learning and computer technology in work-integrated learning (WIL) experiences.
Mandatory WIL health and safety requirements must be completed by students prior to student WIL experiences. Successful WIL completion is required for students to progress to program completion. To qualify for WIL experiences, students must present the following by the deadline indicated on the WIL health and safety package which will be distributed in class at the beginning of year one:
- A complete immunization record including MMR, Tdap, varicella, polio and hepatitis B. Seasonal flu vaccination is required during flu season (October – March).
- TB Testing: Evidence of current 2-step or previous 2-step + current 1-step if more than one year has passed since 2-step testing.
- Standard First Aid and CPR – HCP or BLS level
- An annual Police Check for Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS). Police Checks must be clear of any unpardoned criminal offences. An unclear criminal record will result in the inability to participate in WIL experiences meaning the student will not be able to successfully complete the program. Acceptance for WIL is at the discretion of the agency; some agencies may request students to provide a VSS completed within six months of WIL start date.
Health care workers are to be in good health. It is recommended that you contact the program coordinator if you have health-related issues to ensure that you are aware of the physical and emotional requirements of this program and occupation.
Applicants should display integrity, reliability, maturity, self-direction, self-discipline, determination, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, poise and leadership attributes.
Applicants are advised that a latex-free environment in the college or clinical setting is NOT guaranteed.
Attendance in the classroom, skills lab and clinical experiences is essential.
Applicants are advised that the program makes use of self-directed/independent study in the delivery of some courses and portions of other courses throughout the program.
In addition, students are responsible for costs associated with respirator fit testing required for WIL experiences.
Career opportunities
Graduates are prepared to enter the health-care industry working in various health-care settings (e.g., hospitals, retirement homes or long-term care facilities, private rehabilitation clinics and other health-related community agencies) as an occupational therapist and physiotherapist assistant under the supervision of a licensed physiotherapist or occupational therapist. This two-year diploma program is not a direct route to becoming a registered OT or PT. Applicants are advised to seek career counselling support to determine appropriate pathways for entry into the master’s degree program to become a registered OT and/or PT if this is a route they wish to take.