Question 1

How long does it take to become a physiotherapist in BC?

Accepted Answer

About 6 to 7 years after high school. The main steps are high school preparation (Grades 11–12), bachelor degree with MPT prerequisites, UBC MPT admission, assessment & interview, master of physical Therapy (UBC, 26 months), Canadian physiotherapy examination (CPTE), CHCPBC full licensure & practice.

Question 2

What are the requirements to become a physiotherapist in BC?

Accepted Answer

A four-year bachelor's degree in any field; At least a B (72%) in each prerequisite course; A B+ (76%) average in your senior-level courses; Prerequisite courses: Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Physics, Psychology, and Statistics; 70 hours of volunteer or paid work with people with disabilities, at no more than two places. Some schools ask for more; check the school page.

Question 3

How much does a physiotherapist make in BC?

Accepted Answer

The WorkBC median is $50 / hour. Most earn between $28.00 and $72.12 / hour. 2,720 job openings are expected in BC over 2025–2035. WorkBC lists average pay of $85,938 a year.

Question 4

How much does it cost to become a physiotherapist in BC?

Accepted Answer

One published figure: about $17,000 for the whole program at University of British Columbia. Confirm with the school.

Question 5

Do you need a licence?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You register with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC (CHCPBC). Before that you pass Physiotherapy Competency Examination (PCE) written component (administered by CAPR) and BC College of Physical Therapists provincial clinical examination and registration.

How to become a physiotherapist in BC

The route at a glance

High School Preparation (Grades 11–12)

Bachelor Degree with MPT Prerequisites

UBC MPT Admission, Assessment & Interview

Master of Physical Therapy (UBC, 26 Months)

Canadian Physiotherapy Examination (CPTE)

CHCPBC Full Licensure & Practice

High School Preparation (Grades 11–12)

Bachelor Degree with MPT Prerequisites

UBC MPT Admission, Assessment & Interview

Master of Physical Therapy (UBC, 26 Months)

Canadian Physiotherapy Examination (CPTE)

CHCPBC Full Licensure & Practice

What the job is like

Find jobs

WorkBC job board

Job Bank (Government of Canada)

LinkedIn

Indeed

Common questions

How long does it take to become a physiotherapist in BC?

What are the requirements to become a physiotherapist in BC?

How much does a physiotherapist make in BC?

How much does it cost to become a physiotherapist in BC?

Do you need a licence?

Approved colleges, universities & providers

University of British Columbia

Master of Physical Therapy (MPT Program)