Occupational Therapist Assistant & Physiotherapist Assistant
How To Apply
Program Details
- Program Code9151
- SchoolSchool of Community and Health Studies
- CredentialOntario College Diploma
- Program TypePost-secondary program
- Program Length2 years/ 4 semesters
- LocationMorningside Campus
- Emailhealthstudies@centennialcollege.ca
- Telephone416-289-5000, ext. 58068
Program Availability
- Program Overview
- Courses
- Career Options and Education Pathways
- Admission Requirements
- How to Apply
- Tuition and Fees
- Program Vocational Learning Outcomes
- Faculty Bios
- Advising
At Centennial College's Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant (OTA & PTA) program, you'll learn to help people who have physical or cognitive limitations with everyday activities like dressing, bathing, walking and moving around.
Through training in this health care diploma program, which will consist of current theoretical knowledge and practical experiences, you'll develop the clinical skills to become a compassionate, client-centered and reflective rehabilitation practitioner who will be prepared to work in the dynamic health care field as part of a multidisciplinary team.
The faculty members of this college health care program are experienced occupational therapists and physiotherapists and OTA&PTAs working in their field of expertise, and will ensure you'll have the educational tools, training and hands-on experience necessary to meet career challenges with enthusiasm, professionalism, and compassion. High academic standards and personal attention are two standout features of this program.
Once you complete the Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program, you'll have the knowledge, skills and ability to work under supervised practice with registered occupational therapists and physiotherapists to provide rehabilitation services to improve people's quality of life.
Mission
To facilitate learning and growth of our diverse students into highly skilled, client-centred and reflective rehabilitation practitioners. By providing current theoretical knowledge and practical experiences, students will become compassionate leaders who excel in the dynamic health care field.
Vision
Improving people's quality of life by training capable health care professionals.
Note: The Occupational Therapist Assistant & Physiotherapist Assistant Diploma Program at Centennial College has been accredited by the Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Education Accreditation Program (OTA & PTA EAP) in collaboration with Physiotherapy Education Accreditation Canada (PEAC) and the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT). The status of Accreditation was granted to the program on November 30, 2019 for the period until November 30, 2026.
Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Education Accreditation Program, Suite 26, 509 Commissioners Road West, London, Ontario, N6J 1Y5, (226) 636-0632, www.otapta.ca
Program Overview
At Centennial College's Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant (OTA & PTA) program, you'll learn to help people who have physical or cognitive limitations with everyday activities like dressing, bathing, walking and moving around.
Through training in this health care diploma program, which will consist of current theoretical knowledge and practical experiences, you'll develop the clinical skills to become a compassionate, client-centered and reflective rehabilitation practitioner who will be prepared to work in the dynamic health care field as part of a multidisciplinary team.
The faculty members of this college health care program are experienced occupational therapists and physiotherapists and OTA&PTAs working in their field of expertise, and will ensure you'll have the educational tools, training and hands-on experience necessary to meet career challenges with enthusiasm, professionalism, and compassion. High academic standards and personal attention are two standout features of this program.
Once you complete the Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program, you'll have the knowledge, skills and ability to work under supervised practice with registered occupational therapists and physiotherapists to provide rehabilitation services to improve people's quality of life.
Mission
To facilitate learning and growth of our diverse students into highly skilled, client-centred and reflective rehabilitation practitioners. By providing current theoretical knowledge and practical experiences, students will become compassionate leaders who excel in the dynamic health care field.
Vision
Improving people's quality of life by training capable health care professionals.
Note: The Occupational Therapist Assistant & Physiotherapist Assistant Diploma Program at Centennial College has been accredited by the Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Education Accreditation Program (OTA & PTA EAP) in collaboration with Physiotherapy Education Accreditation Canada (PEAC) and the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT). The status of Accreditation was granted to the program on November 30, 2019 for the period until November 30, 2026.
Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Education Accreditation Program, Suite 26, 509 Commissioners Road West, London, Ontario, N6J 1Y5, (226) 636-0632, www.otapta.ca
Courses
Career Options and Education Pathways
Program Highlights
- Additional areas of instruction and development will include respect and caring for the uniqueness of individuals, effective communication, critical thinking and decision-making.
- You will participate in several fieldwork experiences that will provide opportunities for the supervised application of skills in clinical settings with a range of client populations. The facilities at which you will be able to complete placement vary, and when combined, offer diverse experiences in both occupational therapy and physiotherapy disciplines.
- The diversity of your placements will allow you to experience what your career can entail and help you to discover your areas of interest.
Global Citizenship, Education and Inclusion Portfolio
You will be required to participate in the development of a portfolio, which will be a reflection of learning and growth as an OTA & PTA student and your achievements throughout the program. You will document your engagement with the College's signature Global Citizenship and Equity (GC&E) competencies. For more information on GC&E, the GC&E portfolio and the available supports, please visit //www.centennialcollege.ca/about-centennial/college-overview/signature-learning-experience.
Career Outlook
- Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant (OTA & PTA)
- Physiotherapist Assistant
- Occupational Therapist Assistant
- Rehabilitation Assistant
Education Pathways
Graduates of the Occupational Therapist Assistant & Physiotherapist Assistant diploma program have the opportunity to apply learning achieved at Centennial for credits toward further study at the degree level. Listed below are the degrees from partnering institutions that are available for this program.
Please note that each partner has minimum admission requirements to be met in order to qualify for transfer credits, which are assessed by the partner institution.
| Partner Institution | Degree Program |
|---|---|
| Algoma University | Bachelor or Honours Bachelor of Arts in multiple majors |
| Bachelor of Science in multiple majors | |
| Honours Bachelor of Computer Science | |
| Humber College | Honours Bachelor of Health Sciences - Workplace Health and Wellness |
| Lakehead University | Bachelor or Honours Bachelor degree in any major |
| Laurentian University | Bachelor or Honours Bachelor of Arts in multiple majors |
| Nipissing University | Bachelor or Honours Bachelor of Arts in multiple majors |
| Ontario Tech University | Honours Bachelor of Allied Health Sciences (bridge) |
| Honours Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies | |
| Honours Bachelor of Commerce | |
| Seneca Polytechnic | Honours Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies |
| Sheridan College | Honours Bachelor of Health Sciences in Kinesiology and Health Promotion |
| Toronto Metropolitan University | Bachelor of Health Administration degree completion |
| Wilfrid Laurier University | Honours Bachelor of Arts in multiple majors |
| Windsor, University of | Honours Bachelor of Arts in Disability Studies for CAAT Graduate |
| York University | Bachelor or Honours Bachelor degree in any major |
| Bachelor of Health Studies (3-year) | |
| Honours Bachelor of Public Administration | |
| Bachelor or Honours Bachelor of Science in multiple majors |
Please visit our website at //centennial.adv-pub.moveonca.com/outgoing-home/ for more information on articulation agreements.
For pathways to other Ontario post-secondary institutions, please visit ONTransfer.
Placement Partners
The Occupational Therapist Assistant & Physiotherapist Assistant program's clinical fieldwork placement partners include: Baycrest Health Sciences, Bridgepoint Active Healthcare, Chester Village, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Humber River Hospital, Lakeridge Health, Lifemark Clinics, Michael Garron Hospital, North York General Hospital, Runnymede Healthcare, Sheppard Village, Scarborough Health Network, Sunnybrook Health Sciences, Toronto Rehab Institute, Trillium Health Partners, Unity Health Network, and University Health Network Hospitals.
Accreditation
The Occupational Therapist Assistant & Physiotherapist Assistant Diploma Program at Centennial College has been accredited by the Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Education Accreditation Program (OTA & PTA EAP) in collaboration with Physiotherapy Education Accreditation Canada (PEAC) and the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT). The status of Accreditation was granted to the program on November 30, 2019 for the period until November 30, 2025.
Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Education Accreditation Program, Suite 26, 509 Commissioners Road West, London, Ontario, N6J 1Y5, (226) 636-0632, www.otapta.ca
Areas of Employment
- Hospitals
- Nursing homes
- Community Care
- Schools
- Seniors' residences
- Rehabilitation centres
- Clinics
- Outpatient clinics
- Private industry
For more information about the field, please visit:
- Practice Profile for Occupational Therapist Assistants (2018): //caot.in1touch.org/uploaded/web/Accreditation/OTAProfile_Update2018.pdf
- Essential Competency Profile for Physiotherapist Assistants in Canada (2012): npag.ca/PDFs/Joint+Initiatives/PTA+profile+2012+English.pdf
- National Physiotherapist Assistant Assembly (NPAA): //physiotherapy.ca/membership/assemblies/national-physiotherapist-assistant-assembly-npaa/
- Canadian Association of Occupational Therapist: www.caot.ca/
- Canadian Physiotherapy Association: www.physiotherapy.ca/Home
- Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Education Accreditation Program (OTA and PTA EAP): otapta.ca/english/index.php
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent, or mature student status (19 years or older)
- Grade 12 English (C or U), or equivalent (minimum grade required), or take the Centennial College Centennial English Admission Test
- Grade 11 Biology (C or U) or Grade 12 Biology (C or U), or Exercise Science (minimum grade required), or equivalent
Note: This program is considered highly competitive and fills early. To be considered for the program, you should apply prior to the Ontario Colleges equal consideration date of February 1 and submit transcripts or complete skills assessments as early as possible.
Additional Requirements
Further program information/guidelines:
- Please note that due to the nature of this career, OTAs and PTAs are required to tolerate regular physical activity during the course of their work day. Your professional scope involves your ability to lift and transfer clients and move equipment. As such, an OTA and PTA needs to be in good overall health. It is recommended that applicants have a high level of fitness when entering the program. If you have any health related issues, it is highly recommended that you contact the program coordinator to ensure you are aware of the requirements of the program and the scope of practice of an OTA and PTA, and to discuss any impact this may have on your ability to fully participate in the learning throughout this program..
Field Placement Requirements
After admission but prior to each program clinical fieldwork placement, students are required to:
- Obtain a clear police check with vulnerable sector screening. Vulnerable Sector Screenings must be issued within six months of each placement start date. Any previous criminal record must be pardoned.
- Successfully complete and annually renew a recognized course in CPR (Basic Lifesaver Level)
- Successfully complete a recognized course in standard first aid
- Mask fit testing will be provided by Centennial College (shaving a portion of facial hair may be required to meet safety standards)
- Obtain pre-clearance health form completed by a physician or nurse practitioner stating that the student meets the health requirements of legislated acts, ministry guidelines and agency policies. This includes updating and maintaining your immunization records throughout the program.
- COVID vaccination is highly recommended and may be a requirement at all placement sites.
All of the above requirements must be in effect for the duration of each placement.
Notes:
- There are placement opportunities in Semesters 2,3 and 4; all are secured for you by the college.
- You are responsible for the cost of transportation to the placement facility. We have a large catchment area for placement locations.
How to Apply
1. Apply Online
Domestic Students
If you are applying through the Better Jobs Ontario Program, please apply at the Employment Training Centre (Progress Campus). The Better Jobs Ontario Program is a funding initiative for those who have been laid-off and are in need of training. For more information go to Better Jobs Ontario Program.
If you have previously attended a full-time program at Centennial College, you may be eligible for a Program Transfer. Visit Enrolment Services at any Campus for information.
All other applicants must apply online at Ontariocolleges.ca. A non-refundable application fee of $125 must accompany applications. The fee is payable online, by telephone, online banking, by mail, or in-person to Ontariocolleges.ca. For more information go to Ontariocolleges.ca Application Fees.
International Students
Apply directly to Centennial College here.
2. Submit Documents
Domestic Applicants
Current Ontario high school students and graduates from Ontario high schools: Notify your guidance counsellor that you have applied to college and your school will forward transcripts to Centennial College via Ontariocolleges.ca.
Graduates of college/university, or high school outside Ontario but within Canada: You are responsible for requesting that your educational institute sends any required documents and transcripts to Ontariocolleges.ca.
Domestic applicants who attended school outside of Canada: If you are submitting transcripts to meet admission requirements, you must have the transcripts assessed by an independent credential assessment agency such as World Education Services (WES) or International Credential Assessment Service (ICAS). For more information go to Submitting your Transcripts.
International Applicants
Please refer to the International Education Application Guide.
3. Confirm Your Offer of Admission
Offers of Admission are sent by mail to eligible applicants. When you receive your offer, you must login to your account at Ontariocolleges.ca and confirm before the Deadline to Confirm noted in your offer letter.
You may confirm only one college and one program offer at a time.
You must confirm your offer by the Deadline to Confirm noted in your Offer of Admission letter or your seat may be given to another applicant.
When you confirm your Offer of Admission at Centennial College you are given access to your personal myCentennial account where you can check your email, grades, register for courses, pay tuition fees, and see your class timetable.
4. Pay Fees
Centennial fees statements are sent by email to your personal email account and to your myCentennial email account. Fees statements are not mailed.
You must make a minimum payment by the Fees Deadline noted in your Fees Statement or your seat may be given to another applicant.
5. Build Your Timetable (Register for Courses)
Build your timetable (web-register for courses) at my.centennialcollege.ca.
Fall registration begins mid-July
January registration begins mid-December
May registration begins mid-April
Your web-registration will not open if:
You have not submitted your minimum fee payment by the deadline
You received a Conditional Offer of Admission and you have not met the conditions of your offer.
Once you have paid your fees or have made appropriate arrangements, register for your courses online through myCentennial.
Tuition and Fees
Fees noted below are estimates only. Tuition is based on two semesters, beginning Fall 2024.
| Student | Tuition (2 Semesters) | Ancillary Fees | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canadian | $2,721.00 | $1,247.44 | $3,968.44 |
| International | $16,649.00 | $1,735.62 | $18,384.62 |
Program Vocational Learning Outcomes
Program Vocational Learning Outcomes
Program Vocational Learning Outcomes describe what graduates of the program have demonstrated they can do with the knowledge and skills they have achieved during their studies. The outcomes are closely tied to the needs of the workplace. Through assessment (e.g., assignments and tests), students verify their ability to reliably perform these outcomes before graduating.
1. 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.
2. participate in the effective functioning of interdisciplinary health care teams to optimize client physical and occupational functions.
3. establish, develop, maintain, and conclude client-centred, therapeutic relationships.
4. promote a safe environment that prevents or minimizes potential physical or mental harm to the client, therapist assistant and others.
5. practice in a legal, ethical, and professional manner within the role of a therapist assistant.
6. document client records in a thorough, objective, accurate, and timely manner within the role of the therapist assistant.
7. engage in reflective practice and ongoing professional development activities to maintain and enhance competence.
8. 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.
9. contribute to the occupational therapist's or physiotherapist's assessment of the client and the development, implementation and modification of intervention/treatment plans.
10. 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.
11. maximize the client’s physical function by accurately and safely implementing the interventions, and related tasks under the direction and supervision of the physiotherapist.
- Personality TestSTARTMatch your personality to a career
- Career ExplorerLEARN MOREExplore your future career