Occupational Therapist (OT)
Empower people to overcome physical and cognitive barriers - highly rewarding, hands-on work.
Occupational Therapist (OT) Salary in Canada
Occupational Therapist (OT)s in Canada earn about $70,000 at entry level and around $105,000 in senior roles.
- Entry level: $70,000
- Senior level: $105,000
Private practice and specialized OTs (e.g., pediatric, neurological) can earn at the top end.
About the Career
Driven by an aging population and increasing recognition of neurodiversity supports.
Job Outlook
High Growth demand. Driven by an aging population and increasing recognition of neurodiversity supports.
How to Get There
- 4-yr undergrad (Kinesiology, Psychology, Health Sci) + 2-yr Master of Science in OT
- Time to career: 6 years post-Grade 12
Degrees That Lead Here
- Kinesiology – high 80s at most schools
- Health Sciences – 95%+ average plus strong supplemental - Canada's most competitive undergrad
- Psychology – mid to high 80s
- Life Sciences – high 80s to low 90s depending on school
Key Skills
- Activity Analysis
- Rehabilitative Exercise
- Adaptive Equipment Design
- Client Goal-Setting
- Home & Workplace Assessment
Typical Employers
- Hospitals & rehab centres
- Community health programs
- School boards
- Private clinics
- Long-term care & home care
High School Roadmap
- Join a peer support group or volunteer with people with disabilities.
- Take Biology and Psychology (if available). Shadow an OT or PT.
- Focus on maintaining high grades. Volunteer in clinical or rehabilitation settings.
- Apply to Kinesiology or Health Sciences. Choose a program that allows for diverse electives.
Top Universities for This Path
- McMaster University – Hamilton, ON
- University of Toronto – Toronto, ON
- University of British Columbia – Vancouver, BC
- Western University – London, ON
- Dalhousie University – Halifax, NS
Insider Tips
- OT involves both physical and mental health - psychology courses are highly recommended.
- Most Canadian OT master's programs require a high GPA (3.7+) and significant related volunteer hours.
- The OT field is broad - pediatric, mental health, and neuro-rehab are the fastest-growing specialisations.