Planning is underway for New Brunswick’s first program to train physiotherapists, officials announced Thursday.
The provincial government and l’Université de Moncton are working together to launch the 12-seat program.
“Statistically, professionals who are educated at a post-secondary institution in New Brunswick are more likely to remain in the province after graduation,” Post-Secondary Education and Training Minister Jean-Claude D’Amours said in a news release.
“Physiotherapists are in demand, and we are pleased to collaborate with the Université de Moncton to begin educating these professionals here at home.”
Physiotherapy has been identified as a priority allied health profession by the province, according to a government news release.
Labour market forecasts indicate that New Brunswick will need more than 200 physiotherapists over 10 years due to retirements and increased demand.
Denis Prud’homme, president and vice-chancellor of the university, said they are proud to collaborate with the province on the new program.
“Training these professionals right here in our province marks a major step forward in meeting the health needs of our communities and in supporting the development of our health-care system,” said Prud’homme.
“This program reflects our commitment to creating high-level educational pathways that encourage our graduates to remain in New Brunswick and to actively contribute to the well-being and vitality of our communities.”
New Brunswick currently funds nine physiotherapy seats in Quebec. That funding will be phased out and transitioned to the new program in Moncton, and three more seats will be created.
The four-year program is expected to start accepting students in the 2027-28 academic year. Provincial officials said they intend to provide financial support for program development and startup costs, but an exact commitment has not yet been finalized.
