Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant banner image Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant banner image Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant banner image

Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant


Start Date: September


Location: Prince of Wales Campus


Length: 2 Years


Credential: Diploma, Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant


Program Availability: Fall 2024 Term

Canadian Applicants: Waiting list

International Applicants with a Valid Study Permit: Waiting list

Other International Applicants: Closed


Start your Career in Healthcare


Gain the theoretical knowledge and practical skills you need to be successful as a rehabilitation assistant. Rehabilitation assistants work under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist or physiotherapist in various healthcare settings.

In the Occupational Therapist Assistant / Physical Therapist Assistant program (OTA/PTA) you'll develop an understanding of the human body, the concept of rehabilitation, and the therapeutic interventions and modalities used to treat various conditions. You'll apply these skills in a clinical setting during your practicum placements, preparing you to enter the field upon graduation.

You'll learn strategies to work with individuals with communication disorders, physical limitations, and mental health conditions. Your classroom is specifically designed to provide you with access to the tools and technologies required to address client needs. This mock rehab clinic/classroom is equipped with everything from wheelchairs and walkers to a kitchen and a bathroom so you can put the theories you learn into practice.

 

Learning Outcomes


Upon completion of this program, you will be able to:

  • Communicate effectively using a variety of written, verbal, and non-verbal methods with clients, colleagues and others
  • Demonstrate the ability to prioritize and follow through with assigned tasks
  • Use technology appropriately to support best practices in the rehabilitation field
  • Work respectfully and effectively with clients, their supports and other team members to enable clients to reach their goals
  • Practice under the supervision of a licensed physiotherapist and/or occupational therapist in an independent manner
  • Practice in a professional, legal, and ethical manner in accordance with the provincial and employer standards, policies, and procedures
  • Use critical-thinking skills and an evidence-based approach in all aspects of rehabilitation therapy to optimize client-centred care
  • Assume responsibility for lifelong learning to support rehabilitation practice
  • Act as an effective team member in a collaborative therapeutic setting

This program is located in the Charlottetown Centre. Take a virtual tour.


The OTA/PTA program at Holland College is dedicated to the philosophy of holistic patient care, emphasizing the importance of treating patients as individuals with unique needs and circumstances. The program believes the best rehabilitation outcomes are achieved through a collaborative approach involving the patient, their family, and a team of healthcare professionals. The program is committed to providing students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to support therapist assistants in delivering high-quality care to patients. The program strives to instill in the students the importance of ethical practice, ongoing professional development, and cultural competence. The program graduates are prepared to work as part of a healthcare team and make a positive impact on the lives of their patients by promoting their independence, autonomy, and overall well-being.
 


Our Mission


The mission of the OTA/PTA program is to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to become effective members of the healthcare team, promote health and wellness, and improve the quality of life of individuals with disabilities or functional limitations.  

The Holland College OTA/PTA program strives to provide a learner-centred, experiential approach to education, delivered in a variety of learning environments. The program educates qualified, professional individuals and prepares them to be important members of an interprofessional team in the dynamic healthcare industry. 

Our Vision


Contributing to the health, wellness and quality of life of rehabilitation clients through an innovative and student-centred Occupational Therapist Assistant/Physiotherapy Assistant Program. Graduates of the program are competent and compassionate healthcare professionals who provide quality care to clients in various healthcare settings.  


Our Values


Applied Learning 

Holland College has a rich history in Prince Edward Island. We honour that legacy by ensuring the skills and applications we offer prepare students to be leaders in their chosen fields. 

Innovation 

We will ensure our faculty and students have access to the latest techniques, trends and technologies so when they enter the healthcare workforce, they are prepared to assist their clients with both their current and future needs. 

Engagement 

We will encourage continuous learning, teamwork, and open communication for our students and faculty and staff will model these attributes. Our program and college are part of our greater provincial community and we will continue to be an active member of all communities we operate in. 



The Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program at Holland College is seeking accreditation by the Occupational Therapist Assistant & Physiotherapist Assistant Education Accreditation Program (OTA & PTA EAP) of the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapy Education Accreditation Canada. The program has been granted Candidacy Status, which denotes an affiliation with the OTA & PTA EAP and is a pre-requisite for accreditation of the education program. Candidacy Status does not assure that the program will be granted accreditation status once the program undergoes a full accreditation review. For further information or to contact the OTA & PTA EAP see www.otapta.ca
.

  • Grade 12 or equivalent with credits at or above the general level
  • Grade 12 academic English with a minimum of 70%
  • Grade 11 or 12 academic math with a minimum of 60%
  • Grade 11 or 12 academic biology with a minimum of 60%
  • Standard First Aid and CPR Level C from a recognized First Aid/CPR providerThis training must be taken in person, NOT online.
  • Completion of Immunization Verification Form. (Required after acceptance) (This is a PDF and will open in a new window.)
  • Résumé including work and volunteer experience with applicable dates, membership in groups, associations or athletics, awards and distinctions, and any other information about yourself relevant to the program.

NOTES:

  • If you are accepted to this program, you can book your immunizations through our Health Clinic. To book an appointment, please email npclinic@hollandcollege.com or call 902-566-9392. You will need your health card and your vaccination record. 
  • Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check:
    Before attending any practicum or clinical portions of the program, a student must submit a criminal record check and a vulnerable sector check. If the check indicates that a record exists, the student may not be able to complete portions of their program that are required for graduation. Any associated costs are the responsibility of the student.
  • Don’t have the courses you need to get into this program? Upgrade, earn high school credits, or get your GED in Adult Ed. It’s free!
  • If your first language is not English please review our English Language Requirements page.

2023/2024 Academic Year

Tuition, fees, and other costs are listed in Canadian dollars. International tuition includes the International Student Fee.

1st Year

Canadian

International

Tuition $5,482 $10,582
Fees $747 $1,497
Other Costs $1,750 $1,750
Total $7,979 $13,829

2nd Year

Canadian

International

Tuition $3,191 $8,191
Fees 897$ $1,647
Other Costs $250 $250
Total $4,338 $10,088
/

Canadian Cost Breakdown

Tuition & Fees

1st Year

2nd Year

Tuition $5,482 $3,191
Lab Fee $50 $100
Student Union $172 $172
Health Insurance Fee $445 $445
Fitness Centre Fee $80 $80
Grad Fee $100
     Total payment to Holland College $6,229 $4,088
     
1st installment due first day of first semester $ 3,367 $ 3,017
2nd installment due first day of second semester $ 2,862 $ 1,071
     

Other Costs
Please note: the cost of books, materials, and supplies are included here for your information only, this amount is not payable to the college. Do not include this amount in your tuition payment.

1st Year

2nd Year

Books $1,500 $150
Materials/Supplies $250 $100
     Total $1,750 $250
     
Grand Total $7,979 $4,338

 

International Cost Breakdown

Tuition & Fees

1st Year

2nd Year

Tuition* $10,582 $8,191
Lab Fee $50 $100
Student Union $172 $172
Health Insurance Fee $1,195 $1,195
Fitness Centre Fee $80 $80
Grad Fee $100
     Total payment to Holland College $12,079 $9,838
     
1st installment due first day of first semester $ 9,217 $ 8,767
2nd installment due first day of second semester $ 2,862 $ 1,071
     

Other Costs
Please note: the cost of books, materials, and supplies are included here for your information only, this amount is not payable to the college. Do not include this amount in your tuition payment.

1st Year

2nd Year

Books $1,500 $150
Materials/Supplies $250 $100
     Total $1,750 $250
     
Grand Total $13,829 $10,088

*Includes the International Student Fee.

  • Hospitals
  • Long term care facilities
  • Mental health facilities
  • Rehabilitation facilities
  • Schools
  • Private physiotherapy
  • Occupational therapy clinics

Course Code

Course Name & Description

Credit Values


Course Code:SAFE-1005

PEI Occupational Health and Safety

An overview of the Occupational Health and Safety Act of Prince Edward Island. Students examine the legislation, how PEI employees are protected while on the job and the responsibilities of employees and employers.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:ANAT-1000

Anatomy and Physiology

An introduction to the structure and function of the body in its normal, healthy state. It serves as the basis for understanding pathophysiology and altered body states caused by illness. Students examine individual body organ systems, their components and processes, and how they interrelate.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:COMM-1220

Practice Skills - Communication

Effective interpersonal communication skills are essential in the healthcare field in order to establish effective relationships with clients, families and other health-care professionals. In Practice Skills - Communication, developing an awareness of personal communication style and skills is coupled with respect for others and an awareness of cultural diversity in learning how to maintain professional boundaries. The development of active listening, interviewing, verbal and non-verbal communication skills and conflict management skills is achieved through role-playing in simulated clinical situations.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:ORNT-1120

Orientation to Rehabilitation

Orientation to Rehabilitation examines the conceptual framework that supports the practice of rehabilitation and the specific roles of the OTA/PTA within this framework. Areas explored include disability, ethical and professional behavior, teamwork and therapeutic relationships. Medical terminology and clinical documentation practice are introduced as foundational skills and are built upon throughout the program. These conceptual and practical foundations are reinforced by a series of observational visits to selected clinical settings as well as the development of a fieldwork portfolio that will serve as a basis for successful clinical fieldwork and professional employment upon graduation.

Credit Value:4


Course Code:PRCT-2000

Practicum 1

Practicum 1 involves a practicum placement in a clinical facility as well as a short classroom component. Reflective learning tasks are used to reinforce concepts during and after the placement through online discussion board participation and self-evaluation. Under the supervision of a licensed physiotherapist or occupational therapist, the learner will apply both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the clinical environment.

Credit Value:4


Course Code:PRCT-2200

Practicum 2

Practicum 2 provides the learner with an opportunity to integrate both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in a clinical setting. Demonstration of entry-level occupational therapist assistant and physiotherapist assistant skills will be required.

Credit Value:10


Course Code:PROF-1130

Introduction to Healthcare Delivery

In Introduction to Healthcare Delivery, the role of the healthcare worker in Canada's changing healthcare system is examined in light of a number of broad trends including the impact of an aging population, ongoing pressures to privatize Medicare services, increased consumer involvement in healthcare issues and the increased emphasis on home care. Special attention is paid to the delivery of healthcare services in Prince Edward Island as learners grapple with the ethical and moral issues surrounding the cost of healthcare, issues of patient rights and the impact on current rehabilitation practices. Effective research and computer skills will be applied to examining these trends in healthcare.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:PROF-2230

Professional Practice

In Professional Practice, reflective learning tasks are used to reinforce concepts during and after Practicum 3. Desired skills and behaviours will be identified to assist learners in developing learning goals and applying ethical practice in their role as occupational therapist assistant and/or physiotherapist assistant. Preparation for seeking employment will also be covered.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:PSYC-1110

Life Span Development

In Life Span Development, all stages of normal human development from conception to death are studied from a developmental psychological perspective with a focus on human behaviour and cognitive, social and personality development. The prenatal, family and environmental influences on developmental psychology and the use of developmental psychological concepts and theories in the application of rehabilitation are also addressed. Personal experiences and observations by the learners are incorporated to help identify the different concepts and stages in developmental psychology.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:RHAB-1140

Anatomy of Movement

Identifying and describing the medical terminology, structure and function of the key body systems involved in human movement is essential in the practice of rehabilitation therapy. Anatomy of Movement is an introductory course on functional movement with emphasis placed on describing and analyzing the functionality of the skeletal, muscular and peripheral nervous systems including gross movements and surface anatomy. Learners develop observational and client handling skills through hands-on experience by palpating and moving the structures of the body to gain an appreciation of the three dimensional nature of the body and its movement potential.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:RHAB-1150

Fundamentals of Client Care

In Fundamentals of Client Care, safe client-handling techniques and effective verbal and non-verbal communication skills are developed through the integration of theory and practice emphasizing the principles of client-centred care. In the laboratory, safe practices and infection control measures are applied to all activities including the safe lifting, transferring and positioning of clients, using wheelchairs and conducting range of motion exercises. Biomechanical principles in rehabilitation and client monitoring practices are also examined in order to promote safe client contact in the workplace.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:RHAB-1210

Applied Client Care

Applied Client Care will provide learners with opportunities to further develop and practice safe client-centred care. Skills-based elements such as wheelchair fitting and maintenance, sewing adaptation, ambulation with gait aids, interventions for people with amputations and client instruction will be covered.

Credit Value:1


Course Code:RHAB-1230

Practice Skills - Modalities

In Practice Skills - Modalities, the many uses and applications of therapeutic modalities in rehabilitation and client-centred care are practiced in a lab setting as learners focus on the healing process, the physical agents affecting or impeding healing and the client's response to treatment. Learners will draw on their knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology while studying the rationale for selecting and using different modalities ranging from hydrotherapy, ambulatory aids, electrical stimulation, mechanical traction, ultrasound and the use of hot and cold packs.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:RHAB-1240

Practice Skills - OTA Foundations

In Practice Skills - Occupational Therapy Assistant Foundations, core concepts and principles are explored providing the occupational therapy assistant (OTA) with a solid foundation in the history, theory and basic clinical skills required for providing client-centred care. The relationship between a client's cognitive, visual, sensory or perceptual impairment is examined in relation to three important occupational performance areas: self care, leisure and productivity/work. Activity analysis, grading, environmental assessment techniques and teaching and learning styles are emphasized in developing and implementing occupational therapy interventions to help clients live independently.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:RHAB-1250

Practice Skills - Exercise

Therapeutic exercise is the most common intervention used in rehabilitation practice. In Practice Skills - Exercise, anatomical knowledge and exercise theories are integrated to provide the rationale for various exercise techniques. Through the use of scenarios, learners will develop the skills necessary to apply and modify exercise techniques safely to meet the needs of clients in response to changes in physical status, or based on direction by the supervising therapist.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:RHAB-1260

Health Conditions 1

In Health Conditions 1, the benefits of rehabilitation intervention are examined by focusing on a variety of health conditions commonly treated by rehabilitation ranging from soft tissue injuries, bone and joint problems, strokes, to pain syndromes. Using case studies, learners research these health conditions and identify how impairment in body function and structure can limit and restrict a client's ability to perform simple tasks or participate in everyday activities. The emphasis is on understanding medical, surgical and rehabilitation management of these conditions and applying that knowledge to optimize client outcomes with the parameters of the role of the occupational therapy assistant and the physical therapy assistant.

Credit Value:6


Course Code:RHAB-2120

Practice Skills - Mental Health Concepts

In Practice Skills - Mental Health Concepts, the core principles, concepts, and processes of occupational therapy are applied to clients with mental health issues. The occupational therapist assistant (OTA) applies knowledge of psychiatric diagnoses and treatment models to interventions, to promote occupational performance and improve independence while providing client-centred care.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:RHAB-2130

OTA Advanced Practice Skills

In OTA Advanced Practice Skills the core concepts, principles and processes of occupational therapy are applied to clients with cognitive, neuromuscular and musculoskeletal conditions. Splinting, adaption fabrication, activity analysis and meaningful activities for restoring occupational performance in one-on-one and group settings will be practiced.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:RHAB-2140

PTA Advanced Practice Skills

Concepts and practice skills of therapeutic exercise and physical modalities from previous courses in the Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant program are applied to both simple and complex health conditions. Focus will be placed on applying interventions as part of a comprehensive client-centred treatment plan in a simulated clinic setting.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:RHAB-2150

Communications Disorders

Communication Disorders provide an overview of common speech, language, and swallowing disorders throughout the lifespan. Emphasis will be placed on basic interventions and practical strategies that promote effective communication and function with individuals who have these disorders.

Credit Value:1


Course Code:RHAB-2160

Health Conditions 2

Health Conditions 2 uses a case study approach to focus on a variety of health conditions commonly treated by rehabilitation interventions ranging from neurological, cardiovascular and respiratory conditions to health conditions involving multiple body systems. The spectrum of intervention types are related to the functional impairments associated with the health conditions.

Credit Value:4


Course Code:RHAB-2240

Practicum Consolidation

Practicum Consolidation provides learners with the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to integrate the theory and practical skills covered during the Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant program through the completion of a standardized clinical examination and case study presentation.

Credit Value:1


Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant background image Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant background image Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant background image

Although this program was challenging at times, there was always help nearby - whether it was one of my amazing instructors, or a friendly peer. The program really provided all the necessary learning tools, such as a variety of equipment to practice with, and more than enough reading material. I feel so grateful to have had the experience of meeting all my peers and becoming one big family, and I truly feel Holland College has fully prepared me to confidently enter the workforce!

Hailey, Class of 2021

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