Program overview
Admission Requirements
Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-31

Program overview

Program overview

Choose a career in promoting health, restoring function, and improving quality of life. The two-year Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapy Assistant Ontario College Diploma program equips you with the knowledge and skills to work alongside an Occupational Therapist and/or Physiotherapist. The goal is to help individuals overcome movement limitations and perform daily activities with independence. Occupational Therapist Assistants and Physiotherapist Assistants play vital supporting roles in the assessment, planning, and implementation of therapeutic care across various healthcare environments. The versatile skills learned throughout the program are increasingly valuable as the demand for healthcare and rehabilitation services continues to grow.

Program structure

The Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapy Assistant program is designed to be completed in two years. The program includes:

  • Classroom theory and group activities
  • Practical labs
  • Over 500 hours of clinical placement for real-world exposure

Students will gain hands-on experience working with individuals of all ages coping with health limitations. The program also emphasizes community outreach, allowing students to apply their training in various clinical experiences. Graduates will be well-prepared to support the delivery of both occupational therapy and physiotherapy services in diverse healthcare settings.

Featured Experiences

The program offers a variety of unique experiences, including:

  • More than 500 hours of clinical placement, providing real-world exposure
  • Hands-on learning opportunities through practical labs and group activities
  • Community outreach initiatives that allow students to apply their training
  • Strong community partnerships that offer diverse clinical placement experiences
  • Personalized attention due to smaller class sizes

Career Options

Graduates of the Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapy Assistant program can pursue various career opportunities in Canada, including:

  • Occupational Therapist Assistant (OTA): Supports occupational therapists in implementing treatment plans and helping clients achieve their goals.
  • Physiotherapist Assistant (PTA): Assists physiotherapists in providing rehabilitation services to clients recovering from injuries or surgeries.
  • Rehabilitation Assistant: Works under the supervision of healthcare professionals to support clients in their rehabilitation journey.
  • Home Care Assistant: Provides in-home support to clients, helping them with daily activities and rehabilitation exercises.
  • Community Health Worker: Engages with community members to promote health and wellness, often working in schools or community centers.

 

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Algonquin College official website