● Prior to entering clinical practice, physiotherapists must graduate an entry-level Master's degree from one of the 14 accredited universities in Canada (CPA Website, 2011). 

Our background includes:  biological and basic sciences i.e. human anatomy, physiology, pathology, immunology, genetics, and pharmacology). 

● A physiotherapist must also be a registered practitioner with the regulatory board or college of physiotherapists in their province/territory.  For example, in British Columbia, the regulating body is CPTBC (College of Physiotherapist British Columbia).  Only those registered can use the title "Physiotherapist", "Physical Therapist" or PT.

● Professional organizations include PABC (Physiotherapy Association of British Columbia), an additional organization that ventures in providing leadership and direction to all physiotherapists practicing in BC and foster excellence in education, research, and promote high standards of health care in BC (PABC Website, 2011) and a national organization known as CPA (Canadian Physiotherapy Association). 

● Overall, this intense and specialized training including our broad background equips us to deal with physical health problems and deliver evidence based informed care.