Occupational Therapist Assistant And Physiotherapist Assistant at Fanshawe College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-02-09

Program overview

Program Overview

The Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program is a comprehensive two-year Ontario College Diploma designed to equip students with essential skills to assist clients in regaining mobility, recovering from injuries, and achieving independence. This program emphasizes the fundamentals of anatomy and physiology, rehabilitation techniques, and professional communication. Graduates will be well-prepared to work under the guidance of occupational therapists and physiotherapists, contributing significantly to the therapeutic process and enhancing the quality of life for clients.

Program Structure

The Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program spans a duration of 66 weeks, providing a robust educational experience that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. The program structure includes:

Hands-on learning through in-person and virtual classrooms.
Access to a state-of-the-art clinical laboratory equipped with the latest technology.
Three clinical placements in various healthcare settings, including hospitals and rehabilitation clinics.
Opportunities for real-world experience to consolidate knowledge and skills.

Students will engage in clinical placements during their studies, which are crucial for applying learned concepts in real healthcare environments. These placements occur in locations within a one-hour drive of London, ensuring students gain valuable experience while being close to their educational base.

Featured Experiences

The program offers several unique features that enhance the learning experience:

Access to a purpose-built clinical laboratory with ten treatment cubicles.
Utilization of the Health Sciences “Activities of Daily Living” Apartment, simulating a patient's living space.
In-person laboratory instruction to reinforce theoretical knowledge.
Three clinical placements providing hands-on experience in diverse settings.
Collaboration with experienced faculty and healthcare professionals throughout the program.

Career Options

Graduates of the Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program can pursue a variety of rewarding career paths in Canada, including:

Therapy Assistant: Collaborate with healthcare teams to develop and implement care plans tailored to client needs.
Occupational Therapy Assistant: Provide direct support to clients under the supervision of occupational therapists, focusing on rehabilitation and daily living skills.
Physiotherapy Assistant: Assist physiotherapists in delivering treatment programs and monitoring client progress.
Rehabilitation Assistant: Work in rehabilitation clinics, helping clients recover from injuries and improve their physical capabilities.
Home Care Assistant: Support clients in their homes, assisting with daily activities and rehabilitation exercises.

These roles are essential in various settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and outpatient clinics, contributing to improved patient outcomes and quality of life.

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

Visit Fanshawe College official website

Last updated on 2026-02-09

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program at Fanshawe College has specific academic requirements for applicants. To be eligible for admission, students must possess an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or an equivalent qualification. Additionally, mature applicants must achieve a minimum final grade of 65 in each of the following prerequisite courses:

Grade 12 English (C or U)
Grade 11 or 12 Math (C, M or U)
Grade 11 or 12 Biology (C or U) or Grade 12 Introductory Kinesiology (U)

Students who do not meet these requirements are encouraged to consider academic upgrading. A conditional offer may be possible with proof of enrollment in upgrading courses. Alternatively, applicants may opt for the one-year Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees preparatory program, which fulfills all admissions requirements for this program.

For international students, specific admission equivalencies apply based on the country of study. It is essential to check the requirements relevant to your location. Additionally, transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding the admission requirements, please feel free to reach out to LOA Portal's advisors for support.

Language Requirements

The following English language proficiency tests are accepted for the Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program:

TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 5.5 with no score less than 5 in reading and listening; 5.5 in writing and speaking
IELTS Academic: Overall score of 7.0 with no score less than 6.5 in reading and listening and a score of 7.0 in writing and speaking
CAEL: 70 in writing, reading and speaking and a score of 80 in listening
PTE Academic: 65
Cambridge English: Overall score of 185 with no language skill less than 176 and a score of 185 in listening
ESL4/GAP5: Minimum grade of 80% in ESL4/GAP5 Level 10
Duolingo: 135, with no score less than 130 in speaking and writing and 125 in listening and reading
LANGUAGECERT: Overall score of 75 with no score less than 70 in reading and listening and a score of 75 in writing and speaking

Please check with our team for more details.

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!