Occupational Therapist Assistant And Physiotherapist Assistant (OTP)

Program overview

The Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant (OTP) program at Seneca is designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in healthcare. This program equips students with the skills necessary to assist licensed occupational therapists and physiotherapists in delivering comprehensive rehabilitative care. Students will learn to support individuals of all ages in enhancing their physical, cognitive, emotional, and developmental well-being. By implementing treatment plans and guiding patients through exercises, graduates will play a crucial role in improving patients' functional independence and overall quality of life. With the growing demand for healthcare professionals in Ontario, this program addresses the needs of an aging population and individuals with disabilities or rehabilitative needs.

Program structure

The Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program is structured to provide a comprehensive educational experience over a duration of 4 semesters (2 years). The program is delivered in a hybrid format, combining in-person and online learning to accommodate various learning styles. Key features of the program structure include:

• Hands-on practical experience in a state-of-the-art simulation lab.
• Mandatory work placements totaling over 500 hours, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world settings.
• Flexible delivery options, including interactive learning spaces for both in-person and online students.
• Unique first-semester focus on "two-eyed seeing," integrating Indigenous and Western perspectives.

Students will complete four mandatory work placements throughout the program, ensuring they gain valuable experience and are career-ready upon graduation.

Featured Experiences

The OTP program offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning journey for students:

• Hands-on training in a modern Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy Lab.
• Exposure to real-world professional environments through mandatory work placements.
• Integration of Indigenous perspectives in the curriculum, promoting a holistic understanding of health and wellness.
• Opportunities to develop essential skills in communication, documentation, and ethical practice.
• Access to a robust support system, including career coaching and networking opportunities through Seneca Works.

Career Options

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

• Occupational Therapy Assistant: Support occupational therapists in helping clients improve their ability to perform daily activities.
• Physiotherapy Assistant: Assist physiotherapists in implementing treatment plans and guiding patients through rehabilitation exercises.
• Healthcare Aide: Provide personal care and support to patients in hospitals or long-term care facilities.
• Rehabilitation Assistant: Work with rehabilitation teams to help patients recover from injuries and surgeries.
• Community Support Worker: Assist individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions in accessing community resources and services.

These roles are essential in various settings, including clinics, hospitals, extended care facilities, and other healthcare environments, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the healthcare industry.

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