In January, we hosted four accreditation reviewers from the Physiotherapy Education Accreditation Canada who were conducting their on-site visit of the MPT program. This is an important step in a long process of self-reflection and reporting on our program. We are pleased to state that our MPT program received our accreditation award for six years – the highest possible – with no terms or conditions.
The reviewers provided many outstanding comments about the strengths of our program to the Dean. Just a few of them are listed below:
- The Department is applauded for its ability to develop and sustain positive, cooperative relationships with other Departments, Faculties, organizations and the clinical community. These positive relationships have resulted in teaching, learning and research opportunities as well as funding opportunities.
- The Department has a thoughtful and comprehensive program evaluation plan. The program is encouraged to share this plan with their peers in other entry-level physiotherapy education programs across Canada as an exemplar.
- The faculty in the Department are recognized as being very productive, well-funded, creative researchers who establish strong research affiliations within and beyond UBC. Their accomplishments are recognized and are much-admired as far exceeding similarly sized departments within the university.
- There is excitement for the new Student Led and Research Clinic by faculty, leadership and the decanal team and is viewed as a future positive resource for students and faculty.
- Throughout the onsite visit, it was apparent that faculty and staff enjoyed working in the department because of the “people” and the collaborative nature of the department. There is a spirit of collaboration within the Department that fosters high standards in teaching, research and service.
- The support staff collegially work together to find efficiencies and support each other in their various roles.
- All students, faculty and staff feel supported by the Department leadership (Department Head and Associate Heads) and identified the leadership as approachable.
- Employers and clinical educators report that students and graduates are mature, professional and ready to practice at an entry-level skill set.