Program Description This two-year Ontario College Diploma program equips students with the knowledge and skills to work under the direction of an occupational therapist and/or physiotherapist. The occupational therapist assistant, physiotherapist assistant plays a vital supporting role in the assessment, planning and implementation of therapeutic care to patients with the goal of achieving functional independence and occupational performance.
Through classroom theory, laboratory techniques, group work and practical experience students prepare to work with patients coping with temporary or permanent health limitations in movement and daily function. A variety of clinical placements in various healthcare facilities provide the opportunity for students to gain confidence and experience in treating patients safely and effectively. Although not a professional requirement, Algonquin College follows the standards associated with the accreditation process of the Canadian Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Education Accreditation with the intention of applying for accreditation in 2018.
Employment opportunities exist in hospitals, health centres, community organizations, rehabilitation facilities, private clinics and long-term care settings functioning under the supervision of the occupational therapist and/or physiotherapist.
Algonquin’s Introduction to Canadian Health Studies (ICHS) is designed to help international students integrate into the Canadian context in health studies, be more successful in their program, as well as their future employment. This introduction is offered to students with a conditional acceptance to all health studies at Algonquin College, and will not address program-specific content. 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.
