Engaging PT Students Across the Province

Physiotherapy Programs in Ontario 

Ontario accommodates almost 700 students in five schools across Ontario. McMaster University, Queen’s University, University of Ottawa, University of Toronto, and Western University all offer a master’s in physical therapy. In addition, the Ontario Internationally Educated Physical Therapist Bridging (OIEPB) Program provides educational support to physiotherapists who were educated outside of Canada.  

Communicating and Connecting with PT Students 

Students bring enthusiasm, passion, and new ideas to the profession. OPA ensures that we connect with students whenever opportunities present themselves. We were invited this year to all five schools in Ontario to present to the first year (and sometimes second year) students and gladly accepted the invitations! 

OPA’s President Courtney Bean and/or OPA’s CEO Sarah Hutchison went in-person to visit each school this fall. They shared insights on the profession and the Association’s role in supporting physiotherapists throughout their careers. It was inspiring to experience the students’ energy and enthusiasm, which is a reminder that the future of the profession is in excellent hands. 

University of Toronto

OPA CEO Sarah Hutchison, joined by representatives from the Canadian Physiotherapy Association and the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario, met with first-year physiotherapy students at the University of Toronto on September 30. 

University of Ottawa  

On October 21, Courtney Bean and Sarah Hutchison, and Director of Practice and Policy Emily Stevenson joined Stéphane Poitras at the University of Ottawa to connect with year 1 and year 2 physiotherapy students. Thank you to Stéphane for the invitation and to the students for such thoughtful questions and great conversation.  

McMaster University 

Courtney Bean visited year 1 physiotherapy students at McMaster University on November 11. He engaged them in a conversation about the profession, advocacy, and the future of physiotherapy in Ontario.  

Queen’s University 

Sarah Hutchison visited first-year physiotherapy students at Queen’s University on November 26 with Term Adjunct Lecturer Patrick Cayen. 

Sarah spoke about membership, the profession’s future, and students’ path ahead as emerging clinicians. This visit also included a conversation about upcoming scope-of-practice changes and what this might mean when they graduate. It was a highly engaged class and a great discussion all around. 

 Western University

  
On December 1, Sarah Hutchison visited year 1 physiotherapy students in London, Ontario at Western University. 

Our Commitment to Engage Students  

These visits are part of OPA’s continued commitment to connecting with physiotherapy students across the province and supporting the next generation as they begin their journey in the profession. We appreciate their curiosity, questions, and enthusiasm for their future profession. 

All Students Enjoy Free Membership  

First and second year physiotherapy students in Ontario receive free membership in OPA/CPA.  

Discover the resources, opportunities, and advocacy efforts designed explicitly for physiotherapy students and early-career professionals. 

OPA/CPA membership is free for physiotherapy students enrolled in a program recognized by Physiotherapy Education Accreditation Canada, students in approved bridging programs for internationally educated PTs, and physiotherapist assistant students enrolled in formal education programs with accreditation or candidacy status.