This program prepares you to work alongside occupational therapists and physiotherapists in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, and community clinics. You will study human anatomy, kinesiology, and rehabilitation techniques while developing the practical skills needed to assist with patient assessments, therapeutic exercises, and mobility transfers. The curriculum blends classroom theory with hands-on training in the Corvid Hall simulation centre and the Kingfisher Building labs.
Career outcomes
- Occupational therapist assistant
- Physiotherapist assistant
- Rehabilitation aide
- Clinical support technician
- Health services coordinator
- Community wellness facilitator
Admission requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes)
- Grade 12 English (C or U), minimum 60%
- Pass a criminal reference check and a drug screening before beginning practical sessions
Tuition
Domestic tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $3,940 per year.
Courses
- GNED 1350 Visual Literacy and Design Principles
- GNED 2610 Human Anatomy and Physiology
- HLTH 1640 Anatomy and Physiology I
- HLTH 2550 Neuromuscular Assessment
- KINE 1180 Human Anatomy and Physiology I
- KINE 1220 Kinesiology and Biomechanics
- KINE 1430 Neurological and Musculoskeletal Systems
- KINE 2300 Rehabilitation Techniques and Modalities
- MATH 2740 Statistics for Health Care
- MATH 2970 Mathematics for Laboratory Science
- PHAR 1880 Anatomy for Rehab Assistants
- PHAR 2220 Pharmacokinetics in Therapy
- PHAR 2410 Therapeutic Exercise Design
- PHAR 2470 Mobility and Transfer Safety
What you will learn
You will learn how to support occupational therapists and physiotherapists in helping patients recover mobility, manage daily activities, and improve their overall quality of life. The program covers human anatomy, kinesiology, and rehabilitation techniques in depth. You will study neuromuscular assessment, therapeutic exercise design, and mobility and transfer safety to prepare for real clinical environments. Courses in statistics and mathematics for health care equip you to interpret clinical data, while visual literacy and design principles teach you how to create clear patient education materials. You will also explore pharmacokinetics and how medications affect rehabilitation, giving you a solid foundation in allied health science.
How the program runs
This full-time program runs over two years, divided into four terms. All classes are held at the Benchlands Campus in the City of Wrenford. You will attend lectures, participate in hands-on labs, and complete practical assignments in the Kingfisher Building and the Corvid Hall simulation centre. The schedule is designed to build your knowledge progressively, with each term adding new clinical skills and theoretical concepts. You will work closely with faculty who have experience in healthcare settings, and you will have opportunities to connect with local health providers through guest lectures and site visits. Classes begin in September each year.
Admission
To join the program, you need an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes). You must have completed Grade 12 English (C or U) with a minimum grade of 60%. If you do not meet the English requirement, you can complete upgrading courses at the Academic Upgrading centre before starting. You must also pass a criminal reference check and a drug screening before beginning any practical sessions. We encourage you to apply early, as seats fill quickly each September. Visit the Admissions page for a full list of requirements and deadlines.
Tuition and fees
Domestic tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $3,940 per year. This covers your instruction and access to campus labs and libraries. You will also pay annual ancillary fees of $1,125, which support student services, athletics, and campus facilities. Payment plans are available through Student Financial Aid. If you need help covering costs, you can apply for Ontario student financial assistance, scholarships, and bursaries. The Tuition & Fees hub provides a full breakdown of all charges.
After you graduate
Graduates are prepared to work as occupational therapist and physiotherapist assistants in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, private clinics, and long-term care facilities. You will also qualify for roles in community health agencies, sports and fitness centres, and government health programs. Many employers value the practical training you receive in anatomy, kinesiology, and rehabilitation techniques. The program gives you the credentials needed to register with the appropriate provincial regulatory body or work under the direct supervision of licensed therapists. You can explore career pathways through the Co-op & Career Services office.
How to apply
Domestic applicants apply through the provincial college application service. International applicants use the polytechnic's own application form. Part-time and continuing education students register directly through Continuing Education. Visit the How to apply page for step-by-step instructions, required documents, and important dates. You can also book a campus tour to see the Kingfisher Building and Corvid Hall labs before you apply.