The University of Saskatchewan has launched two new master’s programs in occupational therapy and speech language pathology, adding to only a short list of existing programs in the country.

Director of the School of Rehabilitation Science Dr. Brenna Bath says these 27-month courses are the first-of-their kind in the province, which could draw in a large sum of interest.

“Until now, students interested in OT and SLP had to leave the province to pursue their education. We expect, with these programs being offered at the University of Saskatchewan, significant interest from students who want to train close to home and contribute to their communities,” Dr. Bath explains.

Each program will prepare 40 students for careers in the rehabilitation science industry, concluding with a clinical placement opportunity. Bath says this kind of exposure builds local connections and encourages graduates to stay and serve where they are most needed.

She says there is a high demand for these professionals in Saskatchewan, so the graduates shouldn’t have trouble finding a job once the course is over.

“Waitlists for the services are extensively long in a lot of areas, and there’s a recognized need to increase access to these services, especially in rural and remote areas.” She adds that training locally leads to retention, and there’s proof. “For example, approximately 90 per cent of the practicing physiotherapists in Saskatchewan are USask grads.”

The application window for the occupational therapy and speech language pathology programs is open until mid-December, with a priority of selecting Saskatchewan residents. The focus of the programs is also geared around Saskatchewan ‘s specific needs, with a large component of the courses highlighting rural and remote communities and Indigenous populations.

More information can be found here.