In this article:
What is an Orthotics and Prosthetics Degree?
An orthotics and prosthetics degree teaches students how to design, create, and fit devices that help people with physical disabilities. Orthotic devices, such as braces and supports, help improve movement and provide stability, while prosthetic devices replace missing limbs and allow people to regain function. Students learn how to use technology and medical knowledge to help individuals move more comfortably and independently.
This degree covers subjects like anatomy, biomechanics, and material science, teaching students how to design and customize devices for different needs. Hands-on training is an important part of the program, allowing students to practice making and fitting orthotic and prosthetic devices for real patients. They also learn how to work with doctors, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to provide the best care.
Program Options
An orthotics and prosthetics degree is available at different levels, each providing the skills needed to design and fit supportive devices for patients. Below are some program options for studying orthotics and prosthetics:
- Associate Degree in Orthotics and Prosthetics: This two-year program introduces students to the basics of designing and fabricating orthotic and prosthetic devices. It is a good starting point for those interested in entry-level technician roles or continuing their education in the field.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Orthotics and Prosthetics: This undergraduate program provides a deeper understanding of anatomy, biomechanics, and device fabrication. Students gain hands-on experience in creating and fitting orthotic and prosthetic devices, preparing them for further certification or graduate study.
- Master’s Degree in Orthotics and Prosthetics: This graduate program is required for those who want to become certified prosthetists and orthotists. It focuses on advanced clinical training, patient assessment, and the development of customized devices to meet individual needs.
- Doctorate in Rehabilitation Science (with a focus on Orthotics and Prosthetics): This research-based program explores innovations in assistive technology, advanced material science, and rehabilitation techniques. Graduates often contribute to academic research, product development, or healthcare policy in the field.
Skills You’ll Learn
An orthotics and prosthetics degree teaches a range of technical, clinical, and patient-focused skills necessary for designing and fitting devices that improve mobility and quality of life. Below are some key skills learned in this program:
- Device Design and Fabrication: Learning how to create custom orthotic and prosthetic devices using various materials, such as plastics, metals, and carbon fiber.
- Patient Assessment: Understanding how to evaluate patients’ needs and conditions to design appropriate devices that enhance mobility and comfort.
- Anatomy and Biomechanics: Gaining knowledge of the human body’s structure and how movement works, which is essential for creating devices that fit properly and function effectively.
- Clinical Skills: Developing the ability to work with patients to fit and adjust devices, ensuring that they meet both medical and comfort needs.
- Material Science: Learning about different materials used in orthotics and prosthetics, including their properties and how to choose the right material for each individual device.
- Patient Care and Communication: Developing the ability to communicate with patients, doctors, and healthcare teams to ensure that devices are correctly fitted, used, and adjusted as needed.
- Problem-Solving and Innovation: Thinking critically to develop new solutions and improve existing designs, ensuring devices are as functional, comfortable, and durable as possible.
What Can You Do with an Orthotics and Prosthetics Degree?
An orthotics and prosthetics degree provides specialized training, preparing graduates to improve patient mobility and support independence by designing and fitting customized assistive devices.
- Orthotist and Prosthetist: Graduates can become certified orthotists and prosthetists, professionals who design and fit medical devices like braces or artificial limbs for people with physical limitations. Working directly with patients, they assess individual needs, create customized devices, and ensure a comfortable fit that enhances mobility. Common workplaces include hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private clinics.
- Orthotics and Prosthetics Technician: Technicians specialize in the technical fabrication and repair of orthotic and prosthetic devices. They support practitioners by building, adjusting, and maintaining devices based on patient specifications. Technicians often work in prosthetic labs, manufacturing companies, and rehabilitation centers, where they handle the physical creation of each custom device.
- Research and Development Specialist: For those interested in innovation, roles in research and development within medical device manufacturing allow graduates to design and improve orthotic and prosthetic products. In these positions, professionals focus on new technologies and materials that enhance device performance, ensuring they meet patient needs more effectively.
