College Diploma - Occupational Therapist Assistant And Physiotherapist Assistant (OPTA) at Georgian College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-03-05

Program overview

The Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant (OPTA) program at Georgian College is designed to equip students with the essential theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in complex health care environments. As a dual-trained clinician, you will learn to work collaboratively with occupational therapists and physiotherapists, assisting clients in overcoming movement limitations and enhancing their daily functioning. The program emphasizes a hands-on approach, combining classroom instruction with practical experiences in various settings, ensuring you are well-prepared for a rewarding career in health care.

Program structure

The Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program is structured to provide a comprehensive education over a 2-year period. The program is delivered in a full-time format, allowing students to immerse themselves in both theoretical and practical learning experiences. Key features of the program structure include:

Combination of classroom, laboratory, and field placements
Inter-professional learning approach to meet client needs
Clinical placement component for hands-on experience under supervision
Opportunities for placements in various health care settings

Students will engage in practical experiences that prepare them for real-world challenges in health care, ensuring they are ready to make a positive impact in their communities.

Featured Experiences

The OPTA program offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

Clinical placements in diverse health care settings, including acute care and community agencies
Hands-on training in laboratory environments to develop practical skills
Inter-professional collaboration with other health care professionals
Field placements that provide real-world experience and networking opportunities
Work-integrated learning that bridges the gap between theory and practice

These experiences are designed to prepare students for the dynamic and challenging nature of health care careers.

Career Options

Graduates of the Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program have a wide range of career opportunities in Canada. Here are some potential job roles:

Occupational Therapist Assistant (OTA): Support occupational therapists in helping clients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working.
Physiotherapist Assistant (PTA): Assist physiotherapists in implementing treatment plans and helping patients regain mobility and manage pain.
Rehabilitation Assistant: Work in rehabilitation centers, supporting clients in their recovery process through therapeutic activities.
Community Support Worker: Provide assistance to individuals in community settings, helping them achieve their personal goals and improve their quality of life.
Long-Term Care Aide: Support residents in long-term care facilities, assisting with daily activities and promoting their well-being.

These roles are vital in various health care settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community agencies, making a significant impact on the lives of individuals in need of support.

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

Visit Georgian College official website

Last updated on 2026-03-05

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The admission requirements for the Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program at Georgian College are as follows:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, mature student status
Grade 12 English (C or U)
Grade 11 or 12 Biology (C or U) or Grade 12 Exercise Science (U), or equivalent

Mature students, non-secondary school applicants (19 years or older), and home school applicants may also be considered for admission. Eligibility may be met by applicants who have taken equivalent courses, upgrading, completed their GED, and equivalency testing. For complete details, please refer to the academic regulations.

Criminal Reference/Vulnerable Sector Check is required as placement agencies necessitate an up-to-date clear criminal reference check and vulnerable sector check prior to going out on placement. Students should obtain their criminal reference three months prior to placement; checks conducted earlier may not be considered current. It is important to note that individuals who have been charged or convicted criminally and not pardoned will be prohibited from proceeding to a clinical or work placement.

Students must also have an up-to-date immunization record in compliance with the Public Hospitals Act. A Hepatitis B vaccination is required for safety, and students are required to have Level HCP CPR and Standard First Aid during the first semester of the program. Online courses are not acceptable for these certifications.

Additionally, a record of mask fit test is required prior to the start of placements, which will be done at the college in semester two and renewed every two years.

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

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

Language Requirements

To apply for the College Diploma - Occupational Therapist Assistant And Physiotherapist Assistant (OPTA) program, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English. The following English language tests are accepted:

Duolingo Language Test: Minimum score of 110
TOEFL internet-based test (IBT): Minimum score of 79
TOEFL paper-based test: Minimum score of 550
IELTS Academic only: Minimum overall band score of 6.0
YELT: Minimum score of 1-5
TOEIC (Public Test): Minimum score of 800
Graduate of Level 8 of Georgian’s GAAS – English for Academic Purposes: 60% in certificate or completion of level 8 with 70% or higher
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)/CAEL Online: Minimum score of 60
Pearson Test of Academic English (PTE): Minimum score of 58
Cambridge English: C1 Advanced (CAE): Minimum score of 170

Note: English language tests older than two years will not be considered. 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!

Last updated on 2026-03-23

Program overview