The government is working with the Université de Moncton to launch New Brunswick's first program to train physiotherapists.
"Statistically, professionals who are educated at a post-secondary institution in New Brunswick are more likely to remain in the province after graduation," said Post-Secondary Education and Training Minister Jean-Claude D'Amours. "Physiotherapists are in demand, and we are pleased to collaborate with the Université de Moncton to begin educating these professionals here at home."
Labour market forecasts indicate the province will need more than 200 physiotherapists over 10 years due to retirements and increased demand. The government has identified physiotherapy as a priority allied health profession.
"New Brunswick is in a vulnerable position with respect to several allied health professions, and we're working diligently to pinpoint solutions to all of them," said Justice Minister Robert McKee. "The launch of this program will support our ongoing efforts to fill current and upcoming job vacancies in physiotherapy roles by allowing us to recruit more graduates."
McKee spoke on behalf of Health Minister John Dornan.
The four-year program is expected to begin accepting students for the 2027-28 academic year. It will be a partnership involving the government, the Université de Moncton and the Université de Sherbrooke.
"The Université de Moncton is proud to collaborate in establishing the first physiotherapy program offered in New Brunswick," said university president and vice-chancellor Denis Prud'homme. "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. 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."
The government 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, for a total of 12.
While a funding commitment has not been finalized, the government intends to provide financial support for program development and startup costs.
