Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapy Assistant
Choose a career in promoting health, restoring function and improving quality of life.
- Our state of the art labs and leading edge rehabilitation equipment like the Biodex Balance and Mobility System assists in gaining valuable practical experience
- The Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre hosts day programming on site for seniors with early onset dementia providing students with an experience to practice with seniors
- Launched a placement in collaboration with the Dementia Society to provide students with experience to learn about dementia and support the needs of our growing senior population
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
International
Availability
Competitive?
Fall 2024
No
Schedule
Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
Work Integrated Learning
The two-year Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Ontario College Diploma program gives you the knowledge and skills to work under an Occupational Therapist and/or Physiotherapist. Occupational Therapist Assistants and Physiotherapist Assistants play a vital supporting role in the assessment, planning and implementation of therapeutic care for patients with the goal of achieving functional independence and occupational performance. They help teach clients to cope with limits in movement, daily functioning and activities.
Through classroom theory, lab techniques, group work and practical experience, you prepare to work with patients coping with health limitations. During various clinical placements, you apply theory and knowledge while further developing your skills. With more than 600 hours of clinical placements during the program, you increase your understanding of the field and gain confidence assisting professional therapists in various healthcare facilities....(read more)
Overview
Choose a career in promoting health, restoring function and improving quality of life.
The two-year Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Ontario College Diploma program gives you the knowledge and skills to work under an Occupational Therapist and/or Physiotherapist. Occupational Therapist Assistants and Physiotherapist Assistants play a vital supporting role in the assessment, planning and implementation of therapeutic care for patients with the goal of achieving functional independence and occupational performance. They help teach clients to cope with limits in movement, daily functioning and activities.
Through classroom theory, lab techniques, group work and practical experience, you prepare to work with patients coping with health limitations. During various clinical placements, you apply theory and knowledge while further developing your skills. With more than 600 hours of clinical placements during the program, you increase your understanding of the field and gain confidence assisting professional therapists in various healthcare facilities.
Upon graduating, you may find work in:
- Hospitals
- Health centres
- Community organizations
- Rehabilitation facilities
- Private clinics
- Long-term care
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Enjoy the challenges of working with and accepting people of all ages and stages of development and of varying backgrounds.
- Possess good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Function well in a team environment.
- Possess strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Are able to effectively handle physically demanding situations.
- Enjoy physical and hands-on work.
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
ENL0073
Course Name:
Interpersonal Communication Skills in Rehabilitation
Course Description:
Communication is an important skill for all members of the healthcare team as this skill is essential for the safe and effective delivery of... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL1813S
Course Name:
Communications I
Course Description:
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-orient... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENV0002
Course Name:
Environmental Citizenship
Course Description:
Environmental citizenship is based on the principles of national citizenship, yet it goes beyond political borders to emphasize global envir... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
HLT0238
Course Name:
Rehabilitation and the Healthcare System
Course Description:
The role of the rehabilitation professional is evolving to meet the changing needs of the population. The practitioner must understand this ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
HLT0239
Course Name:
Rehabilitation Concepts Through the Lifespan
Course Description:
Rehabilitation can occur at any age and takes on many different forms. Through in-class lectures, presentations and class work, students exa... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
HLT0240
Course Name:
Introduction to Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy
Course Description:
As an assistant it is important to understand the professions of occupational therapy and physiotherapy, as well as the many aspects of reha... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
HLT0256
Course Name:
Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology for Health Care
Course Description:
Students acquire knowledge of the structure and function within the human body. Students use a systematic approach to explore the following ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED1623
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
HLT0241
Course Name:
Ota Therapeutic Skills: Musculoskeletal
Course Description:
The rehabilitation of musculoskeletal conditions requires the healthcare professional to not only treat the physical impairment but to also ... + Read More
Hours:
84.0
Code:
HLT0242
Course Name:
Pta Therapeutic Skills: Musculoskeletal
Course Description:
There are many therapeutic interventions that can be applied to patients diagnosed with a musculoskeletal condition. Through practical labs ... + Read More
Hours:
70.0
Code:
HLT0243
Course Name:
Fundamentals of the Musculoskeletal System
Course Description:
Building on the knowledge of anatomy and physiology for health care, students take an in-depth look at the musculoskeletal system. Through a... + Read More
Hours:
70.0
Code:
HLT0244
Course Name:
Musculoskeletal Conditions
Course Description:
Students investigate the musculoskeletal conditions that are commonly seen in the rehabilitation setting. Through a series of in-class lectu... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
PSY5609
Course Name:
Introduction to Psychology
Course Description:
With its applications to behaviour and personality, psychology extends its reach into many aspects of our personal lives. The broad applicat... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
WKT0006P
Course Name:
Clinical Placement I
Course Description:
The introductory fieldwork placement is the student's first exposure to a variety of rehabilitation therapy settings. Placement experiences ... + Read More
Hours:
75.0
Code:
WKT0006S
Course Name:
Seminar I
Course Description:
Through a series of seminars, students are prepared for their introductory clinical placement and explore a variety of topics in rehabilitat... + Read More
Hours:
30.0
Code:
HLT0245
Course Name:
Ota and Pta Therapeutic Skills: Cardiorespiratory and Complex Condi
Course Description:
In the rehabilitation environment, patients present with various complex conditions including cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. In ... + Read More
Hours:
64.0
Code:
HLT0246
Course Name:
Cardiorespiratory and Complex Conditions
Course Description:
Students investigate the cardio respiratory and complex conditions seen in the rehabilitation setting. Through a series of in-class lectures... + Read More
Hours:
32.0
Code:
HLT0247
Course Name:
Fundamentals of the Cardiorespiratory System
Course Description:
Through a series of lectures, students explore the structure and function of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems with a brief overvie... + Read More
Hours:
32.0
Code:
HLT0248
Course Name:
Concepts in Mental Health
Course Description:
According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, 20 percent of all Canadians personally experience a mental illness in their lifetime, r... + Read More
Hours:
32.0
Code:
HLT0249
Course Name:
Professional Practice in Rehabilitation
Course Description:
In healthcare, practitioners deal with diversity in culture, values and beliefs that sometimes lead to ethical issues and conflicts. The pri... + Read More
Hours:
24.0
Code:
WKT0007P
Course Name:
Clinical Placement II
Course Description:
Practising the skills and knowledge in a rehabilitation setting is essential in the learning process. During placement students apply learne... + Read More
Hours:
259.5
Code:
WKT0007S
Course Name:
Seminar II
Course Description:
An initial seminar prepares students for their second clinical placement. An emphasis is placed on safety, ethics and professionalism in the... + Read More
Hours:
3.0
Code:
HLT0250
Course Name:
Pta Therapeutic Skills: Neurological
Course Description:
A neurological disorder can leave patients with both motor and sensory impairments. Through classroom lectures and practical labs students ... + Read More
Hours:
60.0
Code:
HLT0251
Course Name:
Ota Therapeutic Skills: Neurological
Course Description:
Neurological rehabilitation consists of supporting and facilitating an individual to be as independent as possible in their daily life. Thro... + Read More
Hours:
60.0
Code:
HLT0252
Course Name:
Fundamentals of Neurological Structures
Course Description:
In order to treat patients with neurological disorders it is important to understand the basic structure and function of the nervous system.... + Read More
Hours:
40.0
Code:
HLT0253
Course Name:
Communication and Function
Course Description:
Patients presenting with neurological or sensory impairments often have communication difficulties. It is important that an OTA/PTA is able ... + Read More
Hours:
30.0
Code:
HLT0254
Course Name:
Neurological Conditions
Course Description:
Students investigate the common neurological conditions seen in the rehabilitation setting. Through a series of in-class lectures and presen... + Read More
Hours:
40.0
Code:
WKT0008P
Course Name:
Clinical Placement III
Course Description:
During the final fieldwork placement, students continue to acquire and refine abilities and professional behaviours as OTA/PTAs. Through the... + Read More
Hours:
259.5
Code:
WKT0008S
Course Name:
Seminar III
Course Description:
An initial seminar prepares students for their final clinical placement. Advanced knowledge in ethical and professional behaviors in the wor... + Read More
Hours:
3.0
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates may find employment as an assistant to an occupational therapist or physiotherapist.
Pathways
Please note: There may be more pathways available for this program than are listed here. Please use our Pathways search tool to see every option.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Communicate appropriately and effectively, through verbal, nonverbal, written and electronic means, with clients, their significant others, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and members of the interdisciplinary health care team and others.
- Participate in the effective functioning of interdisciplinary health care teams to optimize client physical and occupational functions.
- Establish, develop, maintain, and conclude client-centred, therapeutic relationships.
- Promote a safe environment that prevents or minimizes potential physical or mental harm to the client, therapist assistant and others.
- Practice in a legal, ethical, and professional manner within the role of a therapist assistant.
- Document client records in a thorough, objective, accurate, and timely manner within the role of the therapist assistant.
- Engage in reflective practice and ongoing professional development activities to maintain and enhance competence.
- Perform the roles and responsibilities of the therapist assistant effectively through the application of relevant knowledge of health sciences, psychosocial sciences, health conditions, resource management, and clinical procedures.
- Contribute to the occupational therapist`s or physiotherapist`s assessment of the client and the development, implementation and modification of intervention/treatment plans.
- Maximize the client`s occupational performance by accurately and safely implementing the interventions, and related tasks under the direction and supervision of the occupational therapist.
- Maximize the client`s physical function by accurately and safely implementing the interventions, and related tasks under the direction and supervision of the physiotherapist.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2023/2024 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar`s Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
Books and supplies cost approximately $1,000 per year for the program.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or Mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee of $50 (subject to change) will be charged.
Program Eligibility
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent)
- Mathematics, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent)
- Biology, Grade 11 or 12
- All applicants must complete an assessment of their knowledge and skills through the Test Centre, and pay an exam fee. Results from the Algonquin College Health Program Admissions Test (AC-HPAT) will be utilized to establish minimum eligibility and applicant ranking. The AC-HPAT can only be written once per academic cycle. For further information on the HPAT and how to book your assessment, please visit Algonquin`s Test Centre.
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT)-overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20 OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 110, minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.
Not sure if you meet all of the requirements? Academic Upgrading may be able to help with that: https://www.algonquincollege.com/access/
International Applicants
International applicants who meet the program eligibility requirements are required to complete preparatory courses (4-months in duration):
Introduction to Canadian Health Studies (ICHS). Students who successfully complete the introduction will then proceed to their original health program of choice. The ICHS requires applicants to submit an academic IELTS score.
Please click this link for more information http://www.algonquincollege.com/healthandcommunity/ICHS/
Police Records Check Documentation
Though not an admission requirement, applicants must note important information listed below regarding Police Records Check program requirements.
Students must provide the College with a current Police Records Check for Service with the Vulnerable Sector (PRCSVS) prior to the deadline identified by the department and students are responsible for any associated costs. If this documentation is not submitted on time, students may not be placed and registration in the program will be jeopardized. If you register in the program without a clear PRCSVS and as a result are unable to participate in placement, you will not be able to graduate and will be asked to withdraw.
Field Placement Eligibility:
Field placements occur in first and second year of the program.
Hospital and Field Placements/Outreach require Health and Safety, N95 Mask fit, WHMIS and OWHSA training. There are additional costs associated with training that should be anticipated by students which are not covered by tuition fees.
To be eligible for placement, you must submit proof of Standard First Aid certification, CPR level C, PRCSVS, and complete immunizations through ParaMed and pay associated costs. ParaMed services are the third-party provider who collects all field placement documentation for the School of Health and Community Studies.
Students may be expected to travel outside of their immediate area of residency. It is the student`s responsibility to arrange transportation and incur all costs associated with fieldwork placement. As well, there is a potential for evening and/or weekend labs.
Should you require further information, please contact the Program Chair.
Application Information
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT AND PHYSIOTHERAPY ASSISTANT
Program Code 1623X01FWO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario
N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar`s Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Contact: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Additional Information
Program Resources
A current Standard First Aid and CPR Level C certificate is required prior to registration, students cannot attend clinical until this is completed.
As the program and career is physically demanding, accepted applicants must be in good health and submit a Health Assessment Form and an Immunization Form prior to registration. The annual flu vaccine is required for clinical.
Contact
Tim Tosh
Program Coordinator
Room A131H
Tim is a graduate of McGill University completing his studies first in Anatomy and then Physiotherapy. Over the last two decades, he has practiced as a physiotherapist across a variety of settings including the hospital and various orthopedic and sports clinics. He has also been active in the Ottawa community working as a trainer for various sports teams and community events. He recognizes that learning is a lifelong process and recently completed a Master’s in Rehabilitation from McMaster University where he focused on the emerging role of the OTA PTA in our health care system.
Danijela Subara
Professor
Room A131G
Danijela is a graduate of the University of Ottawa, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Science and a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy. She is a full-time professor in the OTA PTA Program and is passionate about creating positive classroom environments and engaging students in learning. She has diverse experience as an occupational therapist in physical and mental health care settings, with a variety of populations including children, adults and the elderly. She practiced occupational therapy across various settings including the hospital (acute care and rehabilitation), community and outpatient clinics.