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

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-03-25

Program overview

The Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant (OTA & PTA) program at Sault College is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to assist individuals facing illness, injury, or disability. This program emphasizes the importance of helping clients regain their independence and tackle daily life challenges. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, students will learn to work effectively alongside registered occupational therapists and physiotherapists. The program not only focuses on core skills but also offers hands-on experience in various settings, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to enhance the quality of life for those they serve.

Program structure

The Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program spans a duration of 2 years, divided into 4 semesters. This comprehensive program structure includes:

Theoretical learning in classrooms and laboratories.
Field placements that provide real-world experience starting from the first semester.
Opportunities for students to engage in student-centered learning with experienced clinicians.
Access to an on-site physiotherapy clinic for practical training.
Pathways for further education, allowing students to transfer to partnering universities for degree completion.

Students will participate in fieldwork throughout all four semesters, culminating in a full-time placement in the final semester. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing the necessary skills to succeed in the field.

Featured Experiences

The OTA & PTA program offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

Fieldwork activities begin in the first semester, allowing students to gain valuable clinical skills early on.
Students learn in small lab settings, fostering a more personalized educational experience.
Access to an on-site physiotherapy clinic for practical assessments and treatments.
Opportunities to work with experienced clinicians in diverse healthcare settings.
Pathways to further education, including degree completion options at partnering universities.

Career Options

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

Occupational Therapist Assistant: Support occupational therapists in helping clients regain daily living skills.
Physiotherapist Assistant: Assist physiotherapists in implementing treatment plans and exercises for patients.
Rehabilitation Assistant: Work in rehabilitation settings to support patients recovering from injuries.
Community Care Worker: Provide in-home support to individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses.
Health and Rehabilitation Equipment Vendor: Assist clients in selecting and using rehabilitation equipment.

Additionally, graduates may find opportunities in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private clinics, contributing to the well-being of individuals in need.

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

Visit Sault College official website

Last updated on 2026-03-25

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program at Sault College has specific academic requirements for prospective students. To be eligible for admission, students must possess an Ontario Secondary School Diploma with the following courses:

Grade 12 English (C) ENG4C
Grade 11 Biology (SBI3C)

Alternatively, students may qualify through mature student status. If you are missing any of these requirements, Sault College offers Academic Upgrading options to help you meet the criteria.

For international students, particularly those from Vietnam and other Asian countries, it is essential to follow the specific admission requirements outlined for students educated outside of Canada. This includes ensuring that all necessary documentation is submitted for evaluation.

Additionally, students should be aware that transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases. This evaluation is crucial for determining the equivalency of international educational credentials.

Students will also need to complete several clinical and field placement requirements throughout the program. These include:

Standard First Aid certification
CPR – Level C (annually) with AED
WHMIS training
N95 Mask Fit Testing Card (every 2 years)
Immunizations, including TB tests and vaccinations for Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Tetanus, Chicken Pox, Hepatitis B, and Influenza
Police Vulnerable Sector Check (annually)

It is important for international students to note that while some immunizations can be obtained in their home country, all other requirements must be completed after arriving in Ontario. For any clarifications or support regarding these requirements, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

To demonstrate English proficiency for the Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Diploma program at Sault College, applicants must meet the following requirements:

TOEFL score of 79-80 for the Internet-based test (iBT) and no test below 20
IELTS Academic score of 6.0 with no band lower than 5.5
Cambridge English Exam C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with a Cambridge Score of 169 or more with no single test score below 162
PTE Academic 60, no band below 52
Duolingo 110, no band below 105
CAEL overall score of 60 and no part below 50
Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) Level 7 for all areas: reading, writing, speaking, listening

Results must be from within two years of the start of the program. If you have credentials in languages other than English, you must submit them with a certified true translation, along with the official academic record in the language of instruction.

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!