Objective
Applicants must demonstrate the ability to speak and write English with reasonable fluency. To write the registration examinations, the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) requires that all candidates provide proof of language proficiency.

Justification
Effective communication is essential for the provision of competent, safe, high-quality Massage Therapy services. Language fluency enhances public protection by ensuring that registrants can communicate effectively with clients and other members of the healthcare team. The CMTO Certification Examinations are not designed to test language fluency. Therefore, applicants of the Massage Therapy program at RCC are required to meet the College's language fluency requirement prior to being admitted to the program, consistent with the CMTO's criteria for any candidate attempting the Certification Examinations.

All activities (lectures, seminars, laboratories, etc.) at RCC are conducted in English. It is essential that every student possesses strong English writing, comprehension, and speaking skills in order to succeed in the program curriculum and other components of the program (student clinic and outreach).

Criteria for Demonstrating Language Fluency
An applicant can meet the language fluency requirements by providing acceptable proof through one of the following four pathways:

1. First Language is English or French:
   An applicant whose primary language is English or French can meet the fluency requirement by signing a self-declaration.
2. High School Education in English or French:
   An applicant who has completed at least three years of high school in English or French can sign a self-declaration indicating the name and location of the school. Note that a single course does not qualify. Those who completed education outside Canada may need to provide verification from the school regarding the language of instruction.
3. Third-Party Language Assessment:
   Applicants must provide a third-party language assessment evaluating their reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. The assessment must meet the requirements set by CMTO.

4. Evidence of University Degree in English or French
Applicants must submit proof of having completed a university degree, with coursework conducted in either English or French.

Mandatory English Course Requirements for Non-Primary English Speakers:
Students who do not have proof of English or French as their first language, did not complete the required high school in English or French, or do not meet the assessment criteria, must complete at least two full (e.g., 3-credit or 30-hour) mandatory courses in English prior to graduating. RCC offers a 30-hour communication course as an option for students who require this course.

Possible Outcomes

1. Sufficient Proof:
   Applicants who demonstrate language fluency through any of the above methods will meet the requirement for program admission. However, if the College doubts their fluency, they may need to submit additional standardized test results.
2. Insufficient Proof:
   Applicants unable to provide sufficient evidence will be informed that they will not be admitted until they meet the language fluency requirements.

References:
For further details on the CMTO's language fluency policy and criteria, please visit: Please visit HERE