The Occupational and Physical Therapist Assistant Diploma at Red Deer Polytechnic prepares students to support licensed occupational therapists and physiotherapists in delivering rehabilitation and therapeutic care. This accredited health sciences program combines classroom instruction with extensive hands-on practicum experience.
Students develop knowledge in rehabilitation techniques, therapeutic exercises, mobility training, patient care strategies, and interdisciplinary healthcare collaboration. The program includes three 170-hour practicum placements in Alberta, providing real-world experience in hospitals, rehabilitation clinics, long-term care facilities, and community care environments.
The program is accredited by the Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Education Accreditation Program in collaboration with PEAC and CAOT. Graduates may pursue further study pathways such as transfer options to the University of Calgary Bachelor of Community Rehabilitation or Thompson Rivers University Bachelor of Health Science (subject to transfer requirements).
International students must meet health, safety, and medical authorization requirements before beginning clinical placements.
- Academic Requirement: Students must have: • 60% in ELA 30-1 (English Grade 12 equivalent) • 50% in MATH 30-1 OR 50% in MATH 30-2 • 60% in BIO 30 Indian Equivalent (for system entry): 12th Science with Biology and Mathematics (minimum 50–60% in required subjects as applicable).
- ELP Requirement: IELTS Academic: 7.0 overall (minimum 6.5 each band) Duolingo: 130 TOEFL iBT: 92 Oxford ELLT: 8 overall (minimum 7 each band) PTE 65
- Special Requirement: • Accredited by OTA & PTA Education Accreditation Program (Accredited until November 30, 2026) • Three practicum placements in Alberta (170 hours each; minimum one-third in OT and PT areas) • Practicum travel within Alberta required • Students responsible for practicum expenses (travel, relocation, professional attire) • Study Permit holders must complete Medical Authorization before start of classes • Health & Safety certifications and immunization standards required • Basic computer literacy recommended • Work-Integrated Learning component included
- Application Fee: $150
- LOA Deposit: $1,500
- Annual Tuition Fee: $22,673
- Total Tuition Fee: $35,945
- Course Duration: 2 years
- Credentials: Diploma
- Intake: September 2026
Eligibility
□ 12th Science with Biology and Mathematics
□ Minimum 50–60% in required subjects
English Requirement
□ IELTS 7.0 overall (minimum 6.5 each band)
OR accepted equivalent (Duolingo 130 / TOEFL 92)
Documents
□ Passport
□ 10th and 12th marksheets
□ English test result
□ Statement of Purpose
Fees and Admission
□ Application Fee – CAD 150
□ Tuition Deposit – CAD 1500
□ PAL Required
Program Confirmation
□ Duration – 2 Years
□ Intake – Fall 2026
□ Three Practicum Placements (170 hours each)
□ Medical Authorization required (Study Permit holders)
□ PGWP Eligible