Physical Therapy Bridging Certificate Program
The University of Alberta Physical Therapy Bridging Certificate (PTBC) Program is designed for Internationally Educated Physiotherapists (IEPTs) to support the development of additional knowledge, skills and clinical reasoning required to meet Canadian entry-to-practice standards. Cultural and workplace orientation is provided through mentorship and clinical placement to help integration into the workplace.
Physical therapists (physiotherapists) educated outside of Canada whose physical therapy education and qualifications have previously been assessed by the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (The Alliance) are encouraged to enrol in the program to address any gaps in knowledge or skills.
- Qualified for a Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) Agreement with The Alliance (under the old regulations)
- Eligible for the Physiotherapy Competency Examination (PCE) but want to enhance preparation.
- Not successful in one or more Physiotherapy Competency Examination attempts.
- Application to The Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators for a Credential Assessment is the starting point in Canada.
In addition, the PTBC Program can offer professional development for existing Canadian physical therapists (physiotherapists) who seek to update their knowledge and clinical skills in order to practise in Canada.
Program Locations
The on-campus components will be offered at the University of Alberta campus in Edmonton and two satellite campuses located in Calgary and Medicine Hat using synchronized distance learning technology. Applicants will be asked to identify their site preference for on-campus components. Clinical placements will be at University of Alberta affiliated sites.
Our Mission
To facilitate the integration of internationally educated physiotherapists into the Canadian health-care workplace through education, mentorship and clinical experience.