Program overview
Admission Requirements
Intakes

Last updated on 2025-08-06

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. Throughout the program, students will delve into 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 assessment, treatment, and care of clients.

Program Structure

The Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program spans a duration of 66 weeks, providing a robust educational experience. The program structure includes:

  • In-person and virtual classroom instruction
  • Hands-on laboratory training in a state-of-the-art clinical laboratory
  • Access to specialized resources, including a simulated living space for practical learning
  • Three clinical placements in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals and rehabilitation clinics

Students will engage in clinical placements during the following terms:

  • Placement 1: Winter term of the first year (January-April)
  • Placement 2: Fall term of the second year (November-December)
  • Placement 3: Summer term of the second year (May-June)

These placements are crucial for applying theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, allowing students to consolidate their skills and prepare for their future careers.

Featured Experiences

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

  • Access to a brand new, purpose-built clinical laboratory with ten treatment cubicles and the latest equipment.
  • Utilization of the Health Sciences “Activities of Daily Living” Apartment, simulating a patient's living environment.
  • Hands-on experience through three clinical placements in diverse healthcare settings.
  • Integration of in-person and virtual learning platforms to accommodate different learning styles.

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 client-centered care plans.
  • Occupational Therapy Assistant: Provide direct support to clients under the supervision of occupational therapists, focusing on rehabilitation and recovery.
  • Physiotherapy Assistant: Assist physiotherapists in delivering therapeutic programs and monitoring client progress.
  • Rehabilitation Assistant: Work in rehabilitation clinics, helping clients regain physical function and independence.
  • Home Care Assistant: Provide in-home support to clients, assisting with daily activities and rehabilitation exercises.

These roles are essential in various settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation clinics, and home care services, contributing to improved quality of life for clients.

 

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

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