Study a physiotherapy program in Canada
Physiotherapy degrees train students to cure spine and joint problems in young and old, specifically after operations and rehabilitation following sports injuries, strokes and accidents through the use of manual therapy and therapeutic exercise. Physiotherapy modules study the basic principles of healing, repair, and movement analysis in year one and patient assessment and management in year two. Your final year of study will involve providing in-depth research on a subject within physiotherapy, plus a greater responsibility in clinical reasoning and decision-making.
Physiotherapy education in Canada is provided by many universities and colleges that have curated programs to help students achieve academic excellence. As physiotherapy is a regulated health profession in the country, students need rigorous training to pursue practice and make a difference in society through their contributions to human health.
Types of Courses
Diploma in Physiotherapy
Among the courses that can be completed in a shorter period, the diploma programs in physiotherapy in Canada are the first options students usually take up. These programs generally provide a practical and focused educational pathway for individuals who want to become physiotherapy assistants or aides and work in the rehabilitation and healthcare sectors. Students are given training to gain relevant skills to assist licensed physiotherapists in delivering patient care.
The academic trajectory involves studying topics crucial for patient care, including anatomy and physiology, therapeutic modalities, and exercise prescriptions. They also learn about the various ethical and legal aspects of patient care that must be known to succeed in the healthcare industry. Many programs give the option to gain practical experience during the courses by offering internship opportunities in healthcare settings.
- Course duration: 1-2 years
- Course fees: CAD 12,000-40,000
- Entry requirements: Students must have a high school diploma, specific science and math prerequisites, and proof of English language proficiency.
Bachelor’s in Physiotherapy
Students who wish to become licensed physiotherapists in the country and abroad usually opt for a bachelor’s in physiotherapy. This comprehensive study program is quite popular among students. The courses enable students to play the crucial role of helping patients recover from major physical injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve their overall physical well-being.
Students gain specific training to assess, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions. The curriculum includes a mix of theoretical coursework, laboratory sessions, and clinical practicums. During their learning experience, students also develop effective communication and interpersonal skills necessary for patient interaction. Some undergraduate programs offer students a chance to specialize in areas like sports physiotherapy, pediatric physiotherapy, or geriatric physiotherapy.
- Course duration: 4 years
- Course fees: CAD 18,000-40,000
- Entry requirements: Applicants should have a high school diploma with prerequisite science (biology and chemistry) and maths courses. International students require English language proficiency.
Master’s in Physiotherapy
A master’s in physiotherapy in Canada is taken up by students who wish to advance their knowledge and skills for career enhancement. The graduate programs allow students to specialize, research, and gain advanced clinical experience. The specializations offered by physiotherapy colleges in Canada include orthopedics, neurology, sports, pediatrics, or geriatrics.
It must be noted that many graduate courses usually require students to complete a research project, which contributes to the body of knowledge in the field and prepares students for evidence-based practice. Clinical placements are also a part of the programs, allowing students to gain firsthand experience by working in healthcare settings.
- Course duration: 1-2 years
- Course fees: CAD 35,500-48,500 per year
- Entry requirements: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy and licensed physiotherapists in Canada or have equivalent credentials from their home country. English language proficiency is required for international students.
Scholarships
Most of the healthcare courses in Canada require a heavy financial commitment from international students, including physiotherapy courses. To offset students’ financial burden, they are awarded financial aid options, which can be available at various institutions and organizations.
- Institutional scholarships: The most prominent Canadian universities and colleges offer scholarships and financial aid to international students pursuing undergraduate or graduate programs in healthcare-related fields, including physiotherapy. One can apply to these scholarships during the application process or be tested on academic merit and leadership skills.
- Government scholarships: There are some Canadian government scholarship programs as well, which are open to international students to pursue healthcare or graduate programs.
- External scholarship programs: Various organizations, foundations, and professional associations offer scholarships to international students in Canada. Examples include the Canadian Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Scholarship and scholarships from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Confederation for Physical Therapy (WCPT).
- Professional associations: Physiotherapy associations and organizations may also offer financial aid opportunities, which may be awarded based on academic achievement, research potential, or commitment to the field.
Jobs and Careers
Graduates who have earned the required educational qualifications and have passed the necessary regulatory examinations can pursue a rewarding career in the healthcare industry. The specific position is usually determined after considering the specialization and personal interests of individuals, but general options are mentioned below:
- Physiotherapist
- Clinical Specialist
- Researcher
- Clinical Manager/Administrator
- Healthcare Consultant
- Rehabilitation Coordinator
- Community Health Specialist
- Pediatric Physiotherapist
- Geriatric Physiotherapist
- Sports Physiotherapist
- Pain Management Specialist
Salary
Much like other professionals, physiotherapists can also expect to earn according to the level of education and experience that they have gained in their field. In Canada, entry-level positions while pursuing physiotherapy as a career can give a package of around CAD 75,000, while mid-level experience can provide professionals with around CAD 86,000. Physiotherapists with significant experience and specialization in sports, orthopedics, or neurology can earn CAD 118,000 or more.
Where can I study Physiotherapy in Canada?
To learn more about the physiotherapy universities in Canada, find details on the top ranking Physiotherapy programs in the EduRank Guide 2024 below:
- University of Toronto
- McMaster University
- University of British Columbia
- McGill University
- University of Alberta
- Western University
- University of Calgary
- University of Montreal
- University of Ottawa
- Queen’s University at Kingston
Study Physiotherapy in Canada
If you want to learn more about studying a physiotherapy course in Canada, arrange a free consultation with SI-Canada today.
FAQ
How long is a physiotherapy course in Canada?
Physiotherapy courses usually run for different durations depending on the student’s level of credentials. One can expect to finish their diplomas in 1-2 years, while a bachelor’s degree can take almost four years. Graduate degree programs can be completed in 1-2 years, depending on the specialization.
Which course is best for physiotherapy in Canada?
The Master of Science in Physical Therapy at the University of Toronto is the best physiotherapy degree in Canada.
What is the average salary for a physiotherapist in Canada?
On average, physiotherapists in Canada can make around CAD 86,000 per annum.
What are the admission requirements for a master’s in physiotherapy in Canada?
Students who want to pursue a master’s degree in physiotherapy usually need a bachelor’s degree with outstanding academic scores. They also need to be licensed physiotherapists in the country of their residence. Apart from these academic requirements, language proficiency is also needed to study at institutions, and students must present English test scores.