Occupational Therapist Assistant & Physiotherapist Assistant

Program description - September 2026

This program prepares students to become dual-trained as Occupational Therapist Assistants (OTAs) and Physiotherapist Assistants (PTAs), ready to support individuals across the lifespan with diverse health needs. Students learn to put treatment plans into action, helping clients improve mobility, function, and enable participation in meaningful daily activities such as caring for themselves, working, and enjoying leisure.

The curriculum blends in-person classes and labs with over 500 hours of clinical placement in varied healthcare settings. Students gain hands-on experience and develop critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and leadership skills through small-group, case-based learning, simulation exercises, applied learning projects and interactive e-learning.

Instruction is delivered by experienced faculty who are registered Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, and Speech-Language Pathologists, ensuring real-world relevance. Graduates are well-prepared to contribute as collaborative, client-centered members of interprofessional healthcare teams.

There are multiple articulation agreements and pathways students can pursue to a post-diploma graduate certificate or degree.

Please note: students are expected to participate in labs and field placements that involve physical activity (e.g. lifting, squatting, exercises) and are emotionally demanding (e.g. working with critically ill patients). Students with medical conditions or limitations that may impact performance are strongly recommended to contact the Program Coordinator and/or Accessible Learning before confirming acceptance in the program.

Program vision and mission

Vision: To improve patient outcomes and promote excellence in healthcare.

Mission: To inspire and educate students to be knowledgeable, skilled and safe members of the healthcare team.