PROGRAM AT A GLANCE
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QUICK FACTS
Program length
6 terms
Credential
Diploma
ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS
- Language Arts – this requirement can be met with any of the following, or an equivalent course:
- Mathematics – this requirement can be met with the following, or an equivalent course:
- 50% in Mathematics 10C
- Biology – this requirement can be met with the following, or an equivalent course:
- 60% in Biology 30
This program information is not for the current academic year. If you are interested in a program starting before July, view the current academic year of the program.
Course Listing
You must complete 28 courses to graduate. Courses are listed by term to show the recommended path to completing the program in two years as a full-time student.
| Course Code | Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| Term 1 - 16 weeks | ||
| ANPH1000 (O) | Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology Study the basics of normal anatomy and physiology. The structure and function of each body system is covered, and the relationship between the structure and function of each system is explored. Learn about the interactions of body systems.
| 3 |
| COMM1001 (O) | Introduction to Communications Explore the fundamentals of communication and interpersonal relationships. Examine effective communication, barriers to effective communication, and specific communication strategies that can improve interactions with others and enhance critical thinking skills. Learn and apply theories related to communication climate, groups, teams, conflict management, and problem solving.
| 3 |
| WELL1000 (O) | Wellness Through Leisure Further your understanding of the field of therapeutic recreation and learn about the models of care in the therapeutic recreation process that guide service delivery. Discuss the Leisure Ability Model as a framework to service, with a focus on promoting a client’s wellness through goal-oriented leisure activities.
| 3 |
| ENGL2510 (O) | Scientific and Technical Writing This technical writing course prepares students with the skills required for writing in professional contexts. Students will learn to produce documents reflecting different types and styles of technical communication, including technical descriptions, proposals, reports, online documents, and instruction manuals. Students will also learn to organize information, write clearly and concisely, rigorously edit their work, cite sources appropriately, and apply APA formatting to a variety of documents. In addition, students will examine effective document design and the use of visual aids, and will be required to create and deliver presentations based on these principles. Prerequisites: 60% in English Language Arts 30-1 or 70% in English Language Arts 30-2 or equivalent
| 3 |
| RHAB1001 (O) | Introduction to Rehabilitation Learn the fundamental concepts and theories specific to rehabilitation and gain an introduction to the field of rehabilitation medicine. Examine the common practices and unique roles of physical therapy, therapeutic recreation, and occupational therapy, and explore the skills, roles, and traits of the therapy assistant.
| 3 |
| THPR1100 | Therapeutic Mobility Learn and apply the principles of therapeutic mobility within a rehabilitation context, including body mechanics, functional mobility, bed mobility, lifts and transfers, gait retraining, fitting gait aids, operating wheelchairs, and seating mechanics. Practise documenting and reporting interventions and findings. All students taking this course will be required to attend the scheduled in-person lab(s) at NorQuest College Edmonton campus.
| 3 |
| Term 2 - 16 weeks | ||
| ANPH1004 | Functional Anatomy Learn the essential concepts of functional anatomy including terminology, the movements of joints during various activities, and biomechanical principles.
| 3 |
| PATH1020 | Pathophysiology for Rehabilitation This course focuses on the pathological processes underlying diseases and disorders commonly encountered in the field of rehabilitation. Learners gain a foundation for understanding the phenomena that produce alterations in human physiologic function across the lifespan. The course explores common disease entities as examples of pathological processes. Each pathological process is explained as a concept and illustrated by typical diseases and disorders. Disease is discussed in terms of manifestations, causes, and complications. Learners will acquire a basic understanding of the diagnosis and management of the disease process associated with pathophysiologic dysfunction.
| 3 |
| THPR1102 | Occupational Therapy Theories and Foundations of Physical Medicine for Assistants Explore the fundamental concepts, theories, and frames of reference specific to occupational therapy. Gain comprehensive foundational knowledge in activities of daily living (ADLs), posture, seating, supportive surfaces, wounds, pressure, splinting, and orthotics as they pertain to occupational therapy and its unique approach to client care. Apply foundational knowledge through assisting with handling, modifying, and providing client education on ADL equipment, including bathroom equipment, seating systems, pressure-relieving modalities, and cushions. Fabricate a basic splint and learn how to assist with modifying and managing orthotics to meet client needs. All students taking this course will be required to attend the scheduled in-person lab(s) at NorQuest College Edmonton campus.
| 3 |
| THPR1101 | Therapeutic Cardiopulmonary and Preventative Care Learn the importance of infection control, proper limb-handling techniques, and chest physical therapy techniques. Gain the skills to position clients properly to promote client safety and comfort and prevent complications. Practise hands-on techniques through simulated clinical scenarios. All students taking this course will be required to attend the scheduled in-person lab(s) at NorQuest College Edmonton campus.
| 3 |
| THPR1103 | Therapeutic Modalities Explore the fundamental concepts and theory related to therapeutic modalities. Learn to apply various physical therapy modalities such as thermal therapy, cryotherapy, ultrasound, traction, and electrotherapy. Practise educating clients on the modalities applied. All students taking this course will be required to attend the scheduled in-person lab(s) at NorQuest College Edmonton campus.
| 3 |
| COMM2001 | Communication and Collaboration in Health Care Acquire the skills to collaborate as an effective member of an interdisciplinary health-care team by learning about team functional roles, communication strategies, conflict management, and cultural competency. Adapt communication strategies to perform client interviews and develop effective therapeutic relationships. Participate in simulated clinical and interprofessional situations to practise strategies and apply knowledge acquired in the theory component. All students taking this course will be required to attend the scheduled in-person lab(s) at NorQuest College Edmonton campus.
| 3 |
| Term 3 - 8 weeks | ||
| PPRT2003 | OTA/PTA Practicum I In this practicum, learners are introduced to assisting with occupational and/or physical therapy services under the supervision of an occupational and/or physical therapist. Learners will have the opportunity to demonstrate an understanding of occupational and/or physical therapy foundations and the treatment of common client conditions. Professionalism and team communication skills are emphasized.
| 3 |
| THPR1105 | Therapeutic Exercise Learn the fundamental concepts and theory specifically related to therapeutic exercise, including resistance, balance, flexibility, and cardiovascular exercises. Assist with the planning, implementation, and modification of therapeutic exercises for individuals and groups. Apply concepts to common injuries and conditions. All students taking this course will be required to attend the scheduled in-person lab(s) at NorQuest College Edmonton campus.
| 3 |
| THPR1104 | Therapeutic Range of Motion and Outcome Measures Study the fundamental concepts and theory related to evidence-based practice and outcome measures. Practise range-of-motion and goniometry techniques, manual muscle testing, and muscle length testing, and assist with common functional outcome measures. Integrate outcome measures and data collection within a physical and occupational therapy framework of evidence-based, client-centred care. All students taking this course will be required to attend the scheduled in-person lab(s) at NorQuest College Edmonton campus.
| 3 |
| Term 4 - 16 weeks | ||
| DEMC1011 (O) | Dementia Studies This is a creative and dynamic approach to dementia care that is suitable for caregivers, both formal and informal, in a variety of care settings. Comprehensive information about dementia from diagnosis to end stage is discussed in a practical and interactive manner.
| 3 |
| TRDC1010 | Therapeutic Recreation: Intervention Programming Theory Explore the stages of program development, implementation, and evaluation for clients of a variety of life stages, cultures, and conditions. You will focus on the assistant’s role in the therapeutic recreation process. Learn best practices for selecting activities, engaging clients in active participation, and observing, reporting, documenting, and evaluating responses to a variety of intervention programs. Individual, small group, and large group intervention programs will be reviewed.
| 4 |
| TRDC1020 | Therapeutic Recreation: Intervention Lab In this lab course, you will gain hands-on experience in therapeutic recreation intervention planning, delivery, evaluation, and documentation. This lab will focus on the assistant's role in the therapeutic recreation process working with clients of all cultures, ages, conditions, and genders.
| 2 |
| PPRT2004 | OTA/PTA Practicum II This practicum gives learners the opportunity to assist with occupational and/or physical therapy services under the supervision of an occupational and/or physical therapist. Learners will build on their knowledge of occupational and/or physical therapy competencies. Professionalism and team communication skills are emphasized. Through the practicum experience, learners will develop increased confidence and consistency in providing quality treatment. Contact alliedhealthpracticum@norquest.ca for permission to enroll.
| 5 |
| PPRT2005 | Recreation Therapy Assistant Practicum In this practicum, learners are introduced to a therapeutic recreation setting and the role of the therapeutic recreation assistant in providing recreation therapy to clients. Learners will have the opportunity to demonstrate an understanding of wellness through leisure, common client conditions, assisting clients, program session planning, and program implementation under the supervision of a recreation therapist. Professionalism and team communication skills are emphasized. Contact alliedhealthpracticum@norquest.ca for permission to enroll.
| 4 |
| Term 5 - 16 weeks | ||
| THPR2027 | Occupational Therapy Foundations of Mental Health and Cognition for Assistants Examine the areas of mental health and cognition as they relate to the practice of occupational therapy. Gain foundational knowledge into common mental health conditions, as well as a comprehensive introduction to cognition and disorders of cognition. Explore the role of the therapy assistant within the mental health and cognitive practices of occupational therapy.
| 2 |
| MHAD1007 (O) | Mental Health First Aid This course will provide you with certification from Mental Health First Aid Canada. Learn to recognize signs and symptoms of mental health issues in adult and youth populations, initiate responses when help is needed and support a person to get appropriate professional help. Find more details at www.mentalhealthfirstaid.ca
| 1 |
| THPR2100 | Introduction to Speech and Communication Disorders Learn about speech and language pathology frameworks of practice and the role of the therapy assistant in supporting speech, language, and communication. Review typical speech sound development and learn about common speech sound and motor speech disorders. Explore and apply treatment approaches and strategies to address articulation, phonological, and motor speech disorders. Apply the foundational treatment principles of fluency disorders, voice and resonance disorders, structurally related disorders, and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). All students taking this course will be required to attend the scheduled in-person lab(s) at NorQuest College Edmonton campus.
| 3 |
| THPR2101 | Introduction to Language and Swallowing Disorders Focus on the role of the therapy assistant within a speech and language pathology framework of practice for language and swallowing disorders. Review the anatomy and physiology related to normal and disordered swallowing. Learn about the sequence of typical language development and normal developmental milestones. Explore and apply treatment approaches and techniques for both developmental and acquired language disorders. Assist in preparing assessments and implementing dysphagia management techniques. All students taking this course will be required to attend the scheduled in-person lab(s) at NorQuest College Edmonton campus.
| 3 |
| THPR2032 | Professional Practice for Therapy Assistants This course prepares learners to begin their journey as a therapy assistant and helps them develop the leadership skills essential to success in their role as a therapy assistant. Learners will find job postings, prepare resumés and cover letters, and have the opportunity to practise interview skills. They will also reflect on their current level of competency and create plans for future growth and learning.
| 1 |
| THPR2033 | Integrated Care Across the Lifespan This course introduces learners to typical and atypical human development and helps them to understand their role as part of an interprofessional (SLP, PT, OT) treatment team. The foundations of pediatric care will be addressed, and learners will have the opportunity to integrate their knowledge from previous courses to analyze examples of holistic treatment strategies across various pathological conditions and impairments. Health promotion, maintenance, remediation, and adaptations are emphasized.
| 3 |
| Term 6 - 10 weeks | ||
| PPRT2006 | Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Practicum This practicum introduces learners to the role of the speech-language pathology assistant and how to provide assistance with speech-language pathology services. Learners will have the opportunity to demonstrate an understanding of the assistant’s role in delivering optimal speech, language, communication, and dysphagia management services to clients and stakeholders and provide direct or indirect client services under the direction of a speech-language pathologist. Professionalism and team communication skills are emphasized. Contact alliedhealthpracticum@norquest.ca for permission to enroll.
| 4 |
| PPRT2007 | OTA/PTA Practicum III This course provides a clinically relevant view of the roles and responsibilities of a therapy assistant. Under the supervision of an occupational and/or physical therapist or a team of preceptors (OT/PT/SLP/TR), learners will apply the academic knowledge and skills acquired during the program and will gain valuable hands-on experience. Through the practicum experience, learners will develop increased confidence, consistency, and independence in providing quality treatment. Contact alliedhealthpracticum@norquest.ca for permission to enroll.
| 5 |
Additional note
Courses marked with (O) are available through Open Studies.
Credits required for full-time status: 9 credits (fall, winter); 5 credits (spring, summer)