Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant at Durham College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-04-21

Program overview

Program Overview

The Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program at Durham College is designed for individuals who are passionate about making a real difference in the lives of others. This program equips students with the essential skills needed to support clients facing physical, cognitive, emotional, and developmental challenges. Through a combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience, students will learn to implement rehabilitation treatment plans that empower individuals to achieve their personal goals and improve their quality of life. This program serves as a gateway to a rewarding career in the high-demand field of rehabilitation.

Program Structure

The Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program is a comprehensive two-year diploma program delivered in person over the course of four semesters. The program structure includes:

Hands-on Labs: Students will engage in practical labs starting from the first semester, allowing them to practice essential skills in small groups.
Field Placement: A total of 584 hours of field placement experience is integrated into the program, providing students with diverse opportunities to apply their skills in real-world settings.
Collaborative Learning: Students will work alongside occupational therapists and physiotherapists, gaining insights into interdisciplinary teamwork.
Professional Development: The program emphasizes the development of effective communication strategies and professional skills necessary for success in the field.

This combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience ensures that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce confidently.

Featured Experiences

The Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program offers several unique features that enhance the learning experience:

Real-World Experience: Students participate in hands-on labs every semester, allowing them to practice skills in a controlled environment.
Field Placement Opportunities: Students complete field placements in various settings, including rehabilitation facilities and outpatient clinics, to gain practical experience.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The program encourages collaboration with community partners, enhancing teamwork and communication skills.
Simulation Scenarios: Realistic clinical practice is reinforced through simulation scenarios and guest speakers from the field.

Career Options

Graduates of the Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program can look forward to a variety of career opportunities in Canada, including:

Physiotherapist Assistant: Assists physiotherapists in implementing treatment plans and supporting patient recovery.
Occupational Therapist Assistant: Works alongside occupational therapists to help clients achieve their rehabilitation goals.
Rehabilitation Assistant: Supports clients in rehabilitation settings, facilitating their recovery and skill development.
Vocational Rehabilitation Assistant: Aids individuals in returning to work after injury or illness, focusing on skill development and job readiness.
Special Education Assistant: Works with children with disabilities, providing support in educational settings.

With the growing demand for rehabilitation services, graduates can expect a positive job outlook in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and community agencies.

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

Visit Durham College official website

Last updated on 2025-04-21

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program at Durham College, you will need:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or Mature Student Status
Grade 12 English (C or U)
Grade 11 or 12 biology (C, M or U)

Please note: This program may be highly competitive and have a specific selection process and application deadline. Please refer to the Admission Process for details regarding highly competitive programs.

Are you missing Academic Requirements? We are here to help.

Durham College (DC) offers pre-admission assessment testing to mature domestic applicants to meet Academic Requirements in English and/or math. Domestic applicants that are 19 years of age or older as of the start date of their program, and who do not have the required program credit(s) i.e., Grade 12 English and/or Grade 12 math are eligible to take an admissions assessment test.

DC also offers Academic Upgrading. Courses are FREE and designed to help you meet the admissions requirements for this program. Available to individuals 18+, these courses are offered on-campus at DC. Boost your qualifications with:

Grade 12 Math (MAP4C equivalent)
Grade 12 English (ENG4C equivalent)
Grade 11 Biology (SBI3C equivalent)
Grade 12 Chemistry (SCH4C equivalent)

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For any clarification and support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

Applicants may be admitted to Durham College for our undergraduate programs if they have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent high school diploma from another country which includes:

One senior-level English language credit (from an English-speaking country as listed below)
Equivalent English Proficiency test results (see chart below), or
Completion of an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program through one of our recognized English Language Partner schools.

Applicants from Canadian curriculum high schools, both inside and outside of Canada, must complete a minimum of three years of high school credits to be considered for exemption from TOEFL/Academic IELTS requirements upon provision of a full transcript.

Applicants with a minimum of three years of high school or post-secondary studies in Canada, Australia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, New Zealand, Singapore, United States, United Kingdom, Philippines, some Caribbean countries, and selected other countries may be exempted from TOEFL/Academic IELTS requirements upon provision of a full transcript. Exceptions may apply.

English Language Score Requirements:

Academic IELTS: 6.0, no band score less than 5.5
IBT TOEFL: 80, with minimum section scores of 20
PTE Academic: 53 minimum overall, no section below 49 L,W,S,R
CAEL: Overall scores of 60 with no section below 60
Duolingo English Test (DET): 105

Exceptions:

Practical Nursing: Academic IELTS: 7.0, with no band less than 6.5
TOEFL: 94, with minimum section scores of 23

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!