FULL-TIME | WINNIPEG LOCATIONS REASF-CT Rehabilitation Assistant

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Overview

  • 12-month certificate program
  • September entry date
  • South Winnipeg Campus (Pembina Highway)
  • Practicum experience included
  • If you have a criminal record you may not be able to complete this program. If you are listed on a Child Abuse Registry or Adult Abuse Registry you will not be able to complete this program. See Admission Requirements for more info. 
  • International applicants please visit Academic Program, Dates and Fees for a listing of programs for international students, current availability, and online application instructions.
Description

The Rehabilitation Assistant program equips students with the knowledge and skills to provide safe and competent rehabilitative care under the supervision of speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists. Key features include hands-on practicum rotations and training aligned with current health care practices.

The Rehabilitation Assistant program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and competent rehabilitative care to clients and their families. Rehabilitation assistants perform their duties under the supervision of a speech language pathologist, occupational therapist, and/or physical therapist. The program curriculum includes a variety of frequently encountered rehabilitation simulations to help students develop effective communication and client safety. Practicum placements put students in real-world experiences where they can practice and improve their skills.

Admission Requirements

Your Academic History
If your academic history includes any of the following, please visit My Education for important information: post-secondary studies at an institution other than Red River College Polytechnic; Modified (M), English as an Additional Language (E), or GED high school courses; or home schooling; international secondary (high school) studies.
Click Here for the Admissions Course Equivalence page. This page provides details on the high school courses and credentials needed for admission for applicants from outside of Manitoba. If you have High School education in Canada, use this guide to check your qualifications.
Please check the Program Overview page, to see if this program is for Manitoba residents only.

DOCUMENT SUBMISSION

Upload Through Your Future Student Account

  • Scan your document(s) and save the file. Ensure you keep your original documents as the College may request to see them at any time.
  • Go to apply.rrc.ca and log in.
  • Click on your application, then Supplemental Items & Documents.

If you do not have a Future Student Account or require assistance, please contact our Student Service Centre at 204-632-2327.

Internationally Educated Applicants - visit www.rrc.ca/credentials for credential assessment information.

Submission of required documentation indicating proof of completion of admission requirements is due within 15 days of applying unless otherwise noted in the program's admission requirements.

However, if you apply within 6 weeks of the program start date, admission requirements are due within 5 days of applying.

Regular Admission Requirements

  1. Grade 12
    • Submit proof of graduation from or enrolment in Grade 12, including one credit in each of the following:
      • Grade 12 English (40S)
      • Grade 12 Math (40S) 
      • Grade 11 Biology (30S) or Grade 12 Biology (40S)
    • If you provide proof of enrolment at time of application, your official final grades indicating successful completion must be submitted by July 15 for fall enrolment or by the deadline specified in your admission letter.
    • If you are required to complete an English language assessment, do not submit your transcripts until requested to do so.  See English Language Requirements (ELRs) for more information.
      and
  2. English Language Requirements (ELRs)
    • Answer this question to determine if you meet this program’s ELRs:
      Have I successfully completed 3 years of full-time high school (secondary) education in Canada, the United States, or an ELR exempt country where English was the language of instruction?
      • If YES, you meet English language requirements.  Apply and then submit your transcripts* for review
        or
      • If NO, submit proof of meeting an ELRs option.  If you choose the English language assessment option, review this program's approved assessments and required levels.
        or 
      • If you completed all of your education in Canada, the United States, or an ELR exempt country in English but you did not graduate high school, submit your transcripts* for review. 
    • * If your transcripts are from the USA or an ELR exempt country, we will assess an International Credentials Assessment Fee to be paid before your transcripts will be reviewed.
      and
  3. Applicant Declaration for Check Documents Form

Mature Student Admission Requirements
If you are 19 years of age or older and have been out of high school for a minimum of one year at time of application, and you do not meet the regular admission requirements, you may apply under the Mature Student admission requirements.

  1. Academic Requirement
    • High school graduation is not required, but you must have successfully completed or be enrolled in one credit in each of the following:
      • Grade 12 English (40S)
      • Grade 10 Math (20S) 
      • Grade 11 Biology (30S) or Grade 12 Biology (40S)
    • If you provide proof of enrolment at time of application, your official final grades indicating successful completion must be submitted by July 15 for fall enrolment or by the deadline specified in your admission letter.
    • If you are required to complete an English language assessment, do not submit your transcripts until requested to do so.  See English Language Requirements for more information.
      and
  2. Meet Regular Admission Requirement 2

Program Progression Requirements
Program progression requirements are not due within 15 days of applying and should be submitted after you start classes.

  • Criminal Record and Adult and Child Abuse Checks
    • This program requires students to submit current original/official versions of one or more of the following checks:
      • Adult Criminal Record Check including Vulnerable Sector Search (ACRVS) 
      • Provincial Child Abuse Registry Check (CAR)
      • Adult Abuse Registry Check (AAR)
    • If you have a criminal record you may not be able to complete the program
    • If you are listed on an Abuse Registry you will not be able to complete the program
    • For details on this program's requirements, when to obtain and submit the documents, review the Applicant Declaration for Check Documents Form
    • These documents have expiration dates and should not be obtained prior to timeline indicated on the Applicant Declaration for Check Documents form
    • For general information on why RRC requires these checks and for links to check providers such as the Winnipeg Police, visit our Criminal Record Checks webpage
    • Submit your check documents to the RRC program contact listed on the Contact Information section of your program
      and
  • Immunizations and Testing

English Language Assessments


Approved English Language Assessments

English Language Assessment Minimum Scores for Electronics Technician, Hairstyling, Industrial Mechanic/Millwright, Network & Systems Administration Minimum Scores for Medical Assistant, Rehabilitation Assistant Minimum Scores for Health Care Aide /Personal Support Worker, Medical Assistant Patient Care
CAEL Online or In-Person Overall band score of 60 Overall band score of 70 N/A
Cambridge C1 Advanced Scale score 180 / Grade C Scale score 185 / Grade C N/A
IELTS Academic Level Overall 6.0 and No band below 5.5 Overall 6.5 and No band below 5.5 Overall score of 6.5, with no less than 6.0 in each component
Duolingo Language Test Overal score of 110 Overall score of 120 N/A
PTE 54 58 N/A
TOEFL iBT/iBT Home Edition For tests taken before January 20, 2026 : 78 (no less than 17 per component)
For tests taken on January 21, 2026 onwards: 4.0 overall (no less than 3.5 per component)
For tests taken before January 20, 2026: 86 (no less than 20 per component)
For tests taken on January 21, 2026 onwards: 4.5 overall (no less than 4.0 per component)
N/A

Locations, Dates and Fees

Next Estimated Term 1 Start Date (subject to change)

Location Start Date Apply Link
South Winnipeg Campus Sep 01, 2026 Apply Now

Costs (estimates only; subject to change)

Program/Student Fees
Year 1
$9,275.00
Program/Student Fees (International)
Year 1
$23,331.00

Students may apply for financial assistance through the Manitoba Student Aid program. For general information on applying please call 204-945-6321 or 1-800-204-1685, or visit their website at www.manitobastudentaid.ca, which also includes an online application. For detailed information, please visit one of the RRC Polytech Student Service Centres or call 204-632-2327. Applicants requiring financial assistance should complete their student loan applications well in advance of the class start date.

Courses and Descriptions

(Click the course name to view the description of the course)
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
In addition to Transfer of Credit from a recognized post secondary institution, other RPL processes are available for RPL courses. Click here for more information. For courses with no RPL, please check www.rrc.ca/rpl for additional contact information.
RRCM-1018Software Application Skills
More Information

This course introduces students to essential software applications, including spreadsheets, cloud storage, email, scheduling tools, presentation software, and word processors. Students will also learn about commonly used internet browsers, search engines, research databases, and proper source citation.

RRCM-1019Communication Essentials
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This course is designed to equip participants with the essential skills needed for effective communication within various professional settings in Canada. The course combines lectures, interactive workshops, group discussions, and practical exercises to ensure a comprehensive learning experience. Participants will engage in real-world scenarios, and case studies appropriate for a range of industries to apply the concepts learned in class. Feedback from peers and instructors will refine and enhance communication skills throughout the course. 

RRCM-1056Human Development for Healthcare Professionals
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This course offers a comprehensive overview of human development, examining the stages from prenatal to end-of-life with a focus on physical, cognitive, and socioemotional growth. Key topics include genetic and environmental influences, typical and atypical development, and changes in cognition, emotion, personality, and behavior.

With a goal to optimize patient outcomes at every life stage through holistic, individualized, and evidence-based care, students will learn caregiving techniques to support individuals impacted by injury, illness, and disease.

RRCM-1057Anatomy and Physiology 1
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The Introduction to the Human Body, Anatomy and Physiology will introduce the structure and function of the human body.  This course explores the make-up of our bodies and how our major systems function to help us develop and stay healthy.

RRCM-1059Introduction to the Healthcare Environment
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This introductory course explores the diverse roles and responsibilities of various healthcare practitioners in Manitoba’s healthcare environment. It delves into the intricacies between the Canadian Health Care System and the role of the provincial government. 

Focusing on key elements of effective healthcare delivery, topics will include patient and provider rights, culturally appropriate care practices, and social determinants of health.

RRCM-1060Medical Terminology
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Medical terminology is the language healthcare professionals use to describe the human body, its components, structures, and functions. 
 
In this course, students learn the fundamental building blocks of medical terminology required to construct and interpret essential medical terms. It also focuses on terminology related to various diseases and medical conditions. The strong emphasis on proper spelling and pronunciation prepares students to effectively document and communicate medical information. 

Prerequisites:
RRCM-1066Foundations of Kinesiology
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This course introduces students to the principles of kinesiology and biomechanics in relation to human movement and the musculoskeletal system. Students will explore anatomy from the lens of typical movement patterns to understand how these structures support mobility and functional performance. The course applies kinesiology concepts to examine the impact of physical abilities on engagement in daily activities.

Prerequisites:
RRCM-1070Human Health Conditions and Disease States
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This interdisciplinary course explores the complex landscape of human health, focusing on various health conditions and diseases that impact individuals and communities. Through a combination of lectures, case studies, and interactive discussions, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of disease patterns, risk factors, prevention strategies, and ethical considerations. The course emphasizes the importance of promoting health equity and informed decision-making.

Prerequisites:
RRCM-1071Communication in Healthcare
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This course is designed for healthcare professionals who frequently engages in communication with other health care professionals, patients, and their families. As effective communication is a vital component of quality healthcare, this course cultivates essential communication and collaboration skills to help students build positive relationships, produce clearer exchange of information, and improve patient care outcomes.

Prerequisites:
RRCM-1072Global Citizen
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In this course, students will explore the relationship between human diversity and social justice through a global citizen lens. Inspired by the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, this course introduces students to global challenges and issues to broaden their knowledge, skills, and perspectives on the world today.  

Through discussions, readings, and online and in-class activities, students will critically examine systems of oppression and discrimination, explore diverse cultural perspectives, and engage with the stories and experiences of global citizens who have fought for social justice, environmental sustainability, and equity around the world. Students will emerge from this course with greater cultural competence, improved intercultural communication skills, and a deepened commitment to promoting equity, justice, and human rights.

RRCM-1090Human Health Conditions in Rehabilitation
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In this course, students will explore commonly encountered pathological conditions in rehabilitation. The course examines the impact of these conditions, with an emphasis on the role of therapy and the Rehabilitation Assistant in supporting treatment interventions.

Prerequisites:
RRCM-1091Fundamentals of Discipline-Specific Rehabilitation
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This foundational course introduces the scopes of practice of Occupational Therapists (OT), Physiotherapists (PT), Speech-Language Pathologists (SLP), and Audiologists in rehabilitation settings. Students examine the Rehabilitation Assistant’s role in supporting delegated interventions, interprofessional collaboration, and ethical practice. Emphasis is placed on role differentiation, clinical documentation, and professional communication to promote safe, coordinated rehabilitation services.

Prerequisites:
RRCM-1092Safe Work Procedures
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This course equips students with the knowledge and skills required to perform safe client handling in healthcare settings. Students will apply current safe work procedures and use transfer equipment accurately to prevent injury to clients and themselves.

Prerequisites:
RRCM-1093Introduction to Therapeutic Skills
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Through this introduction course, students will build core therapeutic skills that are essential to the rehabilitation assistant role with a high impact focus on safe patient movement, mobility support, and basic therapeutic exercises. Hands-on lab activities reinforce best practices and risk recognition, ensuring students develop safe and effective treatment approaches.

Prerequisites:
RRCM-1094Therapeutic Exercise
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Building on Introduction to Therapeutic Skills, this course focuses on the rehabilitation assistant’s role in safely delivering therapist-directed therapeutic exercise programs. Students develop practical skills to guide, monitor, and appropriately progress exercises within established plans of care. Emphasis is placed on safe practice standards, recognizing signs of exercise intolerance, and promoting client engagement to support positive rehabilitation outcomes.

Prerequisites:
RRCM-1095Neurological Conditions in Rehabilitation
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This course focuses on common neurological disorders and prepares students to effectively support delegated neuro-specific therapeutic interventions within interdisciplinary rehabilitation teams. Emphasis is placed on developing skills to support motor, cognitive, and communication recovery, contributing to meaningful functional outcomes for clients with neurological conditions.

Prerequisites:
RRCM-1096Musculoskeletal Conditions in Rehabilitation
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Through this comprehensive introduction to musculoskeletal conditions, students examine key factors and interventions that inform musculoskeletal care. Emphasis is placed on hands-on skill development that reinforces safe patient handling standards and risk recognition. Students build practical competence in supporting mobility and accurately applying and removing orthopedic supports and bracing to promote optimal function and safety.

Prerequisites:
RRCM-1066, RRCM-1090, RRCM-1091 and RRCM-1092 and RRCM-1096 are corequisites
RRCM-1097Occupational Therapy: Principles and Practices
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This course introduces the role of the rehabilitation assistant in occupational therapy service delivery. Students explore occupational performance across the lifespan and develop foundational skills to support participation in activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) for individuals with physical, cognitive, neurological, and psychosocial challenges. Emphasis is placed on person-centered practice, the interaction of person, environment, and occupation, and the use of activity and environmental adaptations to promote safe and meaningful participation. Students develop practical skills to implement occupational therapy interventions under the direction of an occupational therapist to support functional independence and client outcomes.

Prerequisites:
RRCM-1098Therapeutic Modalities
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This course introduces students to therapeutic modalities used in clinical practice to support treatment outcomes. Students will learn the principles, indications, and contraindications for a range of modalities, and develop the skills to apply them safely and effectively.

Prerequisites:
RRCM-1099Speech Language and Audiology
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This course introduces fundamental speech language pathology and audiology principles and practices within the rehabilitation field. Students will explore key topics including communication disorders within pediatric and adult populations, the anatomy of oral cavity, and the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication devices. Practical learning prepares students to support safe feeding and swallowing through accurate meal observations and recognition of dysphagia symptoms.

Prerequisites:
RRCM-2057Anatomy and Physiology 2
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This course is a continuation of Anatomy & Physiology 1, focusing on the remaining structures and functions of the human body. It will delve into the body's composition and analyze the interrelationships between body systems. The course also explores the functions of major systems that promote development and health.

Prerequisites:
RRCM-2099Rehabilitation Assistant Work Practicum
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Rehabilitation Assistant practicum experiences are preceptor-led placements where students work under the supervision of a licensed therapist. These unpaid, Work-Integrated learning experiences allow students to gain industry-relevant experience while building professional competence. 

During this practicum, students will deliver assigned treatment plans and safely assist clients with their therapy programs. Emphasis is placed on safe practice standards, particularly on observing and reporting client responses to treatment. This experience supports entry-to-practice readiness by developing essential communication, employability, and leadership skills.

Prerequisites:

CO-OP/Practicum Information

Practicum eligibility requirements:

  • Clear Police Vulnerable Sector Check or RCMP equivalent (dated within six months of the practicum end date)
  • Clear Provincial Child Abuse Registry
  • Clear Adult Abuse Registry
  • Current approved Immunization Record (in accordance with WRHA guidelines for Health Care Workers)
  • Emergency First Aid/BLS certification
  • N95 Mask Fit Test
  • Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) certificate
  • Violence Prevention Program (VPP) training
  • Personal Health Information Act (PHIA) certificate
  • Valid Co-op Work Permit (international students only)

Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process which documents and compares an individual's prior learning gained from prior education, work and life experiences and personal study to the learning outcomes in College courses/programs. For more information, please visit www.rrc.ca/rpl.

Graduation Requirements

  • Successful completion of all program courses, including the 7-week practicum.
  • Passing grades for Rehabilitation Assistant specific courses in terms 2 and 3 are 70%.
Academic Advising Service
Our academic advising service can provide information about our full-time programs, explain program admission requirements, and help you select the right program to meet your career and academic goals. We can also connect you with helpful people, resources, and supports.
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