Traits, skills and aptitudes
Those in rehabilitation therapy tend to be methodical, social and objective.
You need:
- empathy
- patience
- the ability to work well under stress, maintain professional behaviour and regulate your emotions
- flexibility
- effective communication skills
- interpersonal skills
- organizational skills and attention to detail
- physical strength and stamina, including the ability to use your hands, wrists and arms for prolonged periods
- manual dexterity
- the ability to encourage patient confidence and participation
- the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
You may need to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) for long periods, which includes exposure to latex and disinfection materials. You must be comfortable performing patient care procedures in very close proximity to your clients.
Some positions will require extended work hours and shift work, including nights and weekends.
You are strongly encouraged to refer to the ALIS website for career, learning, and employment information for occupational therapy assistants and physical therapy assistants to ensure you can successfully meet the occupational requirements for the program and profession.
Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities
You’ll complete required practicum rotations in a clinical facility where you will work under the supervision of a licensed physiotherapist or occupational therapist.
You will be assigned practicum placements with consideration given to your preference of location. However, due to limited availability in Calgary, it might be necessary for you to travel or relocate outside the city. Special considerations will not be accommodated.
In compliance with the practica agreements with our clinical partners, you will be required to provide specific documentation before you can participate in your practicum. Find out what requirements you need for this program.
International students must also complete their Immigration Medical Exam (IME) and obtain a co-op work permit to attend this practicum. For more information, please contact the International Centre.
Credential
After successfully completing this program, you’ll be awarded a SAIT Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant diploma.
Accepts international applicants - PGWP-eligible
This program accepts international applicants and meets the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program, as long as the student is registered in on-campus classes or completes more than 50% of the courses on campus (for blended options).
International students attending all classes online will NOT be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. International students are responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies.
Related careers
Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.
Potential careers (NOC):
- Occupational therapists (31203)
- Physiotherapists (31202)
- Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment (32109)
Admission requirements - Applicants educated in Canada
Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and meet the following requirements or equivalents with an overall average of at least 60%:
SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.
Program outline
The Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant diploma requires 60 credits (22 courses) to complete.
The program spans two years, with three semesters in year one, and two semesters in year two.
Progression
You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.
To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.
Review our grading and progression procedure >
Books and supplies
Books and supplies are approximately $2,500 per full-time year.
This is a bring-your-own-device program with a standard computer hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.
A portable personal computing device is required. An Apple or Android laptop or tablet is preferred. Phones are not suitable.
Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore’s website. Booklists are created by semester and available approximately two weeks before classes begin.
Required personal protective equipment (PPE)
The industry-approved PPE you’ll need will be discussed during your first few days of classes.
Additional fees
- A fee is associated with obtaining a police information check, including a vulnerable sector check, payable to the police or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
- You must have your immunizations reviewed by the SAIT Health Clinic. There is a $75 charge to review vaccine history. Any vaccines you need to be administered will result in additional charges.
- A fee of approximately $50 to $100 is associated with an electronic student permit checking submission required for clinical practicum placements, payable to Synergy Gateway through the Verified software platform.
- CPRS 001 BLS Provider (Level C) CPR annual updates are required. All CPR courses must be from the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
- A fee is associated with the CompTracker application used in this program.
- You are responsible for additional expenses related to your practicum, including pre-practicum requirements and relocation costs to practicum sites outside of Calgary.
Health and Public Safety program advising
For any questions or to set up an advising appointment, please contact our School of Health and Public Safety.
Phone: 403.284.8481
Email: hps.info@sait.ca
Program outcomes
- Communicate effectively using a variety of written, verbal, and nonverbal 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 professionally, legally, and ethically in accordance with provincial and employer standards, policies, and procedures.
- Implement, safely and competently, assigned therapeutic interventions within the scope of therapist assistant practice.
- Use critical thinking skills and an evidence-based approach in all aspects of rehabilitation therapy in order to optimize client-centered care.
- Assume responsibility for lifelong learning to support rehabilitation practice.
- Act as an effective team member within a collaborative therapeutic setting.
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