Top Physiotherapy Schools in Canada

If you’re an internationally-trained physiotherapist, Canada is a great place to advance your career and achieve a level of success you never thought possible. Currently, there is a shortage of physiotherapists across the country and internationally-trained physiotherapists have never been more in demand. This blog will highlight some of the top physiotherapy schools in Canada and also provide tips for getting licensed as a physiotherapist. 

Health and wellness play a crucial role in our lives. Physiotherapists help us maintain an optimal level of wellness by improving our mobility and relieving any conditions, caused by injury or disease, that could be impacting our wellbeing. People are living longer and staying fit has never been more important. 

There are many physiotherapy schools in Canada where students can get a degree in physiotherapy and utilize their much-needed skills. Below, we have selected the top physiotherapy schools in Canada that are internationally recognized. 

1. University of Toronto 
2. University of British Columbia 
3. McGill University 
4. McMaster University 
5. University of Alberta 
6. University of Ottawa 
7. University of Waterloo 
8. Western University 
9. Queen’s University 
10. Dalhousie University 

Regardless of where you decide to live and work in Canada, there are strong employment opportunities in the physiotherapy sector. Physiotherapy is a regulated occupation so you must be licensed in order to work. This involves successfully completing the Physiotherapy Competency Examination (PCE) and applying to a provincial regulatory college to get your license. 

The Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR) is the national organization responsible for credential evaluation of internationally-trained physiotherapists and they also administer the written component of the PCE. 

It’s important to do research on the licensing requirements in the province you live in. There may be additional requirements that differ from CAPR’s requirements. Contacting your provincial physiotherapy regulator helps you to get a clear insight into the licensing expectations. CAPR’s website is a great resource for understanding what is expected in your province.  

Our free Educational Pathways guide provides additional information about getting licensed as a physiotherapist in Canada.  

If you’re an internationally-trained physiotherapist in need of financial support to get your license, a Windmill loan help you return to your profession. Our microloans, of up to $15,000, can be used to pay for your exams or other licensing costs. Read more here about how our loans help skilled immigrants and refugees achieve career success in Canada.