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Diploma - Occupational Therapist Assistant / Physiotherapist Assistant
Diploma - Occupational Therapist Assistant / Physiotherapist Assistant

Diploma - Occupational Therapist Assistant / Physiotherapist Assistant

  • ID:AC010132
  • Level:1-Year Diploma
  • Duration:
  • Intake:

Fees (CAD)

* International student Premium, U-Pass fee

Estimated Total/program:
Apply
60
Accept letter
100
Visa
20
Fly
1

Admission Requirements

Entry Requirement

  •  International Application Form (International Application Form)

English Requirement

  • International applicants must provide proof of the subject specific requirements noted above along with proof of either: (IELTS / TOEFL) 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.

Other Requirement

  • 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).

    • Math, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent).

    • Biology Grade 11 or 12.

    • All applicants must complete a health program assessment through the Test Centre, and will be required to pay the current fee of $50 (subject to change). Results from the health program assessment will be utilized to establish minimum eligibility and also ranked, with the highest ranked applicants given priority admission. The health program assessment can only be written once per academic cycle.

    • Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency.

Course Information

The two-year Occupational Therapist Assistant/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, and long-term care

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Level: 01

  • ENL0073

  • Interpersonal Communication Skills in Rehabilitation

  • Communication is an important skill for all members of the healthcare team as this skill is essential for the safe and effective delivery of patient care. Through a combination of lectures, simulation exercises, and learning, students practise verbal and non-verbal communication skills, as well as active listening. Students examine communication within the healthcare setting and gain confidence in communicating appropriately with colleagues, patients and patient families. Special emphasis is placed on patient confidentiality, sensitivity and professionalism. 

  • ENL1813S

  • Communications I

  • Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students focus on meeting the requirements of effective communication. Students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information, and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments. 

  • ENV0002

  • Environmental Citizenship

  • Environmental citizenship is based on the principles of national citizenship, yet it goes beyond political borders to emphasize global environmental rights and responsibilities. An environmental citizen is committed to learning more about the environment and to taking responsible environmental action. Through a combination of interactive activities, assignments and discussions, students learn how they are personally connected with current environmental issues. Students are also encouraged to adopt attitudes and behaviours that foster global environmental responsibility. 

  • HLT0238

  • Rehabilitation and the Healthcare System

  • The role of the rehabilitation professional is evolving to meet the changing needs of the population. The practitioner must understand this role and how it relates to other health professionals within the Canadian healthcare system. Students become familiar with the healthcare system in Canada and the responsibilities at each level of government through in class lectures, presentations and group activities. Focus is on the evolution, relevant legislation and current challenges in the system. Class discussion acquaints students with the history of rehabilitation and the principles guiding its practice. 

  • HLT0239

  • Rehabilitation Concepts Through the Lifespan

  • Rehabilitation can occur at any age and takes on many different forms. Through in-class lectures, presentations and class work, students examine the rehabilitation principles across the lifespan from infancy to end of life. The role of the OTA and PTA in supporting physical, cognitive and social development at each stage of life is central throughout

  • HLT0240

  • Introduction to Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy

  • As an assistant it is important to understand the professions of occupational therapy and physiotherapy, as well as the many aspects of rehabilitation. Through a series of learning activities, students learn the principles of rehabilitation therapy, diversity of roles within the field and the impact of relevant regulatory bodies and professional associations. As well, students explore the role of the OTA and PTA as a member of the healthcare team and the inter-professional relationships with other health professionals. 

  • HLT0256

  • Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology for Health Care

  • Students acquire knowledge of the structure and function within the human body. Students use a systematic approach to explore the following systems under normal conditions: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, respiratory and cardiovascular. Basic sciences underlying physiological concepts are highlighted, while recurrent physiological themes, such as communication, time, and compartmentalization are used to explain many of the functions within the body

  • Choose one from equivalencies:

  • Code

  • Course Name & Description

  • Hours

  • GED1623

  • General Education Elective

  • Visit the general education electives site for details about how to select these courses.

  • Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in Society, Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, Personal Understanding, and Science and Technology.

  • Equivalencies: AST2000 or DSN2001 or ENL1726 or ENV5004 or FIN2300 or GED0021 or GED0022 or GED2200 or GED5002 or GED5003 or GED5004 or GED5005 or GED5006 or GED5007 or GED5010 or GED5200 or GED5300 or GED5301 or GED6022 or GEN1002 or GEN1957 or GEN2003 or GEN2007 or GEO0012 or HIS0001 or HOS2228 or HOS2288 or LIB1982 or MGT7330 or MVM8800 or PSI0003 or RAD2001 or SCI2200 or SOC2003 

Level: 02

  • HLT0241

  • OTA Therapeutic Skills: Musculoskeletal

  • The rehabilitation of musculoskeletal conditions requires the healthcare professional to not only treat the physical impairment but to also examine its impact on occupational performance. Through a combination of lectures, labs and simulation activities, students learn the principles of occupational therapy and how to deliver the treatment plan for musculoskeletal disorders. Students also become familiar with various types of assistive devices and strategies used to promote functional independence.

  • Prerequisites: ENL0073 and ENL1813S and HLT0238 and HLT0239 and HLT0240 and HLT0256

  • Co-requisites: HLT0242 

  • HLT0242

  • PTA Therapeutic Skills: Musculoskeletal

  • There are many therapeutic interventions that can be applied to patients diagnosed with a musculoskeletal condition. Through practical labs and in-class lectures students gain an understanding of how to rehabilitate musculoskeletal conditions safely and effectively using ROM, strength and modality techniques. Students also become familiar with various mobility and ambulatory aids and the importance of proper body mechanics when performing lifts and transfers.

  • Prerequisites: ENL0073 and ENL1813S and HLT0238 and HLT0239 and HLT0240 and HLT0256

  • Co-requisites: HLT0241 

  • HLT0243

  • Fundamentals of the Musculoskeletal System

  • Building on the knowledge of anatomy and physiology for health care, students take an in-depth look at the musculoskeletal system. Through a series of lectures and labs, students examine the functional movement of each joint. Students are also introduced to the principles, types and specific application of exercise as it relates to different regions of the body.

  • Prerequisites: ENL0073 and ENL1813S and HLT0238 and HLT0239 and HLT0240 and HLT0256 

  • HLT0244

  • Musculoskeletal Conditions

  • Students investigate the musculoskeletal conditions that are commonly seen in the rehabilitation setting. Through a series of in-class lectures and presentations, students systematically examine conditions in each area of the musculoskeletal system and how they can be evaluated. Emphasis is placed on the impact that these conditions present to the individual within the framework of the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).

  • Prerequisites: ENL0073 and ENL1813S and HLT0238 and HLT0239 and HLT0240 and HLT0256 

  • PSY5609

  • Introduction to Psychology

  • With its applications to behaviour and personality, psychology extends its reach into many aspects of our personal lives. The broad applications of this social science in both an applied and theoretical context are premised on a number of fundamental principles. Students explore research that defines the current boundaries of the discipline and interact with a number of the foundational concepts that resonate throughout daily life and popular culture. Focus is on differing schools of thought in psychology. 

  • WKT0006P

  • Clinical Placement I

  • The introductory fieldwork placement is the student's first exposure to a variety of rehabilitation therapy settings. Placement experiences allow for observation and the discovery of the role of the OTA and PTA. Working alongside healthcare professionals, students refine skills in communication and workplace professionalism while continuing to build on knowledge of various rehabilitation conditions.

  • Prerequisites: ENL0073 and ENL1813S and HLT0238 and HLT0239 and HLT0240 and HLT0256 

  • WKT0006S

  • Seminar I

  • Through a series of seminars, students are prepared for their introductory clinical placement and explore a variety of topics in rehabilitation practice. Seminars also provide students the opportunity to share their placement experiences and reflect on the role of the OTA and PTA in a variety of clinical environments.

  • Prerequisites: ENL0073 and ENL1813S and HLT0238 and HLT0239 and HLT0240 and HLT0256 

Level: 03

  • HLT0245

  • OTA and PTA Therapeutic Skills: Cardiorespiratory and Complex Conditions

  • In the rehabilitation environment, patients present with various complex conditions including cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. In the theory lectures, students build on the knowledge of the normal functioning of these vital systems and gain an understanding of disease processes. Interventions required to manage patients with these conditions are presented and integrated into the lab practicum where students practise these skills. Students also learn and apply therapeutic skills and activities to improve occupational performance and maximize functional independence.

  • Prerequisites: HLT0241 and HLT0242 and HLT0243 and HLT0244 and PSY5609 and WKT0006P and WKT0006S 

  • HLT0246

  • Cardiorespiratory and Complex Conditions

  • Students investigate the cardio respiratory and complex conditions seen in the rehabilitation setting. Through a series of in-class lectures and presentations students explore a selection of disabling conditions based on broad diagnostic categories, encompassing cardiac, respiratory and endocrine systems specific to each age group across the lifespan. Emphasis is on the impact that these conditions present to the individual within the framework of the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).

  • Prerequisites: HLT0241 and HLT0242 and HLT0243 and HLT0244 and PSY5609 and WKT0006P and WKT0006S 

  • HLT0247

  • Fundamentals of the Cardiorespiratory System

  • Through a series of lectures, students explore the structure and function of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems with a brief overview of the endocrine and lymphatic systems. Focus is placed on the normal physiological function of these systems. Students use this foundation in developing an understanding of the various disorders that can arise and the potential impact on rehabilitation.

  • Prerequisites: HLT0241 and HLT0242 and HLT0243 and HLT0244 and PSY5609 and WKT0006P and WKT0006S 

  • HLT0248

  • Concepts in Mental Health

  • According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, 20 percent of all Canadians personally experience a mental illness in their lifetime, regardless of their age, education, income level or culture. Students become familiar with the mental health system and the characteristics of common psychiatric disorders through in-class lectures and student-lead therapy groups. Students also gain an understanding of the supporting role of the OTA and PTA as part of the mental health team.

  • Prerequisites: HLT0241 and HLT0242 and HLT0243 and HLT0244 and PSY5609 and WKT0006P and WKT0006S 

  • HLT0249

  • Professional Practice in Rehabilitation

  • In healthcare, practitioners deal with diversity in culture, values and beliefs that sometimes lead to ethical issues and conflicts. The principles of professional behaviour and appropriate interventions are explored as students examine self-awareness, conflict management, cultural diversity and maintenance of professional boundaries, including privacy and confidentiality. These concepts are integrated with the knowledge and skill necessary for accurate and nonjudgmental documenting of client information. Clinical simulations allow students to integrate knowledge and skills and reflect on the experiences.

  • Prerequisites: HLT0241 and HLT0242 and HLT0243 and HLT0244 and PSY5609 and WKT0006P and WKT0006S 

  • WKT0007P

  • Clinical Placement II

  • Practising the skills and knowledge in a rehabilitation setting is essential in the learning process. During placement students apply learned theory and knowledge while further developing skills related to the rehabilitation of various complex conditions. Students become familiar with the clinical facility as they demonstrate professionalism and interpersonal skills.

  • Prerequisites: HLT0245 and HLT0246 and HLT0247 and HLT0248 and HLT0249

  • Co-requisites: WKT0007S 

  • WKT0007S

  • Seminar II

  • An initial seminar prepares students for their second clinical placement. An emphasis is placed on safety, ethics and professionalism in the workplace. Upon completion of their clinical placement, a seminar provides students the opportunity to reflect on their experiences and increase their knowledge of various healthcare settings through group discussion and activities.

  • Prerequisites: HLT0245 and HLT0246 and HLT0247 and HLT0248 and HLT0249

  • Co-requisites: WKT0007P 

Level: 04

  • HLT0250

  • PTA Therapeutic Skills: Neurological

  • A neurological disorder can leave patients with both motor and sensory impairments. Through classroom lectures and practical labs students learn the theories of therapeutic interventions and applications with the goal of promoting functional independence in patients with neurological conditions.

  • Prerequisites: HLT0245 and HLT0246 and HLT0247 and HLT0248 and HLT0249 and WKT0007P and WKT0007S

  • Co-requisites: HLT0251 

  • HLT0251

  • OTA Therapeutic Skills: Neurological

  • Neurological rehabilitation consists of supporting and facilitating an individual to be as independent as possible in their daily life. Through in-class lectures, activities and lab work, students learn these therapeutic strategies and their application to clients with neurological impairments.

  • Prerequisites: HLT0245 and HLT0246 and HLT0247 and HLT0248 and HLT0249 and WKT0007P and WKT0007S

  • Co-requisites: HLT0250 

  • HLT0252

  • Fundamentals of Neurological Structures

  • In order to treat patients with neurological disorders it is important to understand the basic structure and function of the nervous system. Through a series of in-class lectures, students learn the structure and function of the central and peripheral nervous systems and how they relate to different disorders in the human body.

  • Prerequisites: HLT0245 and HLT0246 and HLT0247 and HLT0248 and HLT0249 and WKT0007P and WKT0007S 

  • HLT0253

  • Communication and Function

  • Patients presenting with neurological or sensory impairments often have communication difficulties. It is important that an OTA/PTA is able to provide support in overcoming these barriers. Through in-class lectures, students learn normal, and disordered communication and specific-treatment strategies for effective communication. The laboratory module includes learning how to identify possible swallowing and feeding issues and strategies to assist those with disorders.

  • Prerequisites: HLT0245 and HLT0246 and HLT0247 and HLT0248 and HLT0249 and WKT0007P and WKT0007S 

  • HLT0254

  • Neurological Conditions

  • Students investigate the common neurological conditions seen in the rehabilitation setting. Through a series of in-class lectures and presentations students investigate a selection of disabling conditions based on broad diagnostic categories and encompassing neurological conditions across the lifespan. Emphasis is on the impact that these conditions present to the individual within the framework of the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).

  • Prerequisites: HLT0245 and HLT0246 and HLT0247 and HLT0248 and HLT0249 and WKT0007P and WKT0007S 

  • WKT0008P

  • Clinical Placement III

  • During the final fieldwork placement, students continue to acquire and refine abilities and professional behaviours as OTA/PTAs. Through these collaborative, practical learning experiences, students increase understanding of the role and gain confidence assisting the professional therapist. Knowledge gained through theory and laboratory activities is integrated in a comprehensive manner in a variety of complex rehabilitation environments.

  • Prerequisites: HLT0250 and HLT0251 and HLT0252 and HLT0253 and HLT0254

  • Co-requisites: WKT0008S 

  • WKT0008S

  • Seminar III

  • Một cuộc hội thảo ban đầu chuẩn bị cho sinh viên cho vị trí lâm sàng cuối cùng của họ. Tìm hiểu kiến ​​thức nâng cao về các hành vi đạo đức và nghề nghiệp tại nơi làm việc. Sau khi hoàn thành vị trí lâm sàng của họ, một hội thảo cung cấp cho sinh viên cơ hội để suy ngẫm về kinh nghiệm của họ và xác định các mục tiêu học tập suốt đời liên quan đến thực hành như một OTA / PTA. Sinh viên cũng được đào tạo để phỏng vấn xin việc và lọc hồ sơ khi họ chuẩn bị cho sự nghiệp tương lai trong lĩnh vực chăm sóc sức khỏe.

  • Điều kiện tiên quyết: HLT0250 và HLT0251 và HLT0252 và HLT0253 và HLT0254

  • Điều kiện cần thiết: WKT0008P 

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Career Opportunity

Career Opportunity

Graduates may find employment as an assistant to an occupational therapist or physiotherapist.

Ability to settle

Overseas Student Health Cover

Health insurance: 500 $ CAD per year

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