Program Overview

Program for Internationally Educated Occupational Therapists (PIE-OT)

The Program for Internationally Educated Occupational Therapists (PIE-OT) is a 12-week focused, non-credited, structured online course designed to familiarize internationally educated occupational therapists with the practice standards, protocols, ethics of practice, and professional and educational frameworks required to pass the final phase of the SEAS program (the competency assessment) and prepare them to be an occupational therapist in Canada.

Program Overview

The PIE-OT course aims to support internationally educated occupational therapists through the SEAS program. The course is delivered virtually and includes weekly self-directed content, live virtual tutorial sessions, mid-program office hours, and a capstone in the final three weeks of the program.

Program Structure

• The 12-week program is delivered virtually through:
  • Weekly self-directed content, including pre-recorded lectures, readings, podcasts, videos (approximately 1-3 hours per week).
  • Live virtual tutorial sessions where students can engage in a Q&A with the facilitator on the week’s learning, work through case studies based on the week’s learning and relevant competencies, and bring their own experiences to discuss (approximately 21 hours in total).
• The program also offers:
  • Mid-program office hours, where students can discuss progress and raise questions about material covered.
  • A capstone in the final three weeks of the program, where students will have the opportunity to attend a one-to-one mini mock interview (with a similar format as the competency assessment) to practice what they have learned and apply it to case studies.

Program Eligibility Criteria

• Achieved a level of education in occupational therapy that is at least equivalent to a Canadian bachelor’s degree (this will be confirmed by completion of phase one).
• Completion of phase one and invited to continue onto phase two of the SEAS program.
• Meet the minimum English requirements as set out by ACOTRO for the SEAS program.

Program Cost

The online program is competitively priced at $2,500 (CAD), offering exceptional value for the comprehensive education and resources received. Planning to settle in British Columbia (BC), Canada, or Saskatchewan (SK), Canada, may be eligible for reimbursement opportunities or re-certification financial aid.

Program Application

The application process is simple and straightforward:

1. Review Eligibility: Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria.
2. Prepare Your Application: Gather any necessary documents and information.
3. Submit Your Application: Complete the application form.

Program Support

Prior to beginning the program, students will meet with PIE-OT administrators to informally discuss strengths and weaknesses, and any specific needs. This will help identify any additional pre-requirements students may need to address prior to beginning the program and help to create an individualized learning plan. The introduction module content must be completed before joining any other modules. Students are also strongly encouraged to complete all modules prior to taking their SEAS competency assessment.