Prosthetist (Orthotist)

When most people think of orthotics, the first thing that comes to mind is a shoe insert. While that is an important component of orthotics, this field entails so much more. Orthotics, supportive devices, and braces are essential to many people’s day-to-day lives. Injuries, birth defects, or sprains may require a prosthetist to measure, select, and fit people with a brace or device to maintain or improve mobility.

Orthotists and prosthetists typically have earned at least a master’s degree in orthotics and have completed a residency in a clinic, ambulatory center, hospital, or medical device manufacturer. These two- to three-year programs train students to assess client needs and then fit them with the best device for their condition. Professionals in this line of work must stay up to date on the latest developments in a rapidly changing field and educate their clients on how to best use and care for their orthotics.

The job outlook for orthotists is good with a projected 15 percent increase in jobs nationally between 2022 and 2032, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2023). This increase is due to an aging population with a prevalence of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, not to mention a high demand for orthopedic footwear. The average pay for this career is $78,240 per year (BLS May 2022), although top earners in the upper decile can make more than $110,120.

Read on to learn about top programs in orthotics, accreditation, admission requirements, typical job duties, and certification and licensure requirements.

Orthotists must complete a master’s degree in orthotics. While there aren’t specialized studies for orthotics, professionals tend to specialize in one or two parts of the body over time. Creating orthotics is a specialized practice. Common focus areas can be the back, arms, legs, hands, or feet.

Most orthotics programs require students to have already completed a bachelor’s degree. Aspiring orthotists should complete undergraduate programs such as biomedical engineering, biology, or even physiology, although, with additional classes, most science-based undergraduate degrees will suffice.

That said, some programs, such as the one at Loma Linda University, offer entry-level master’s degrees in orthotics. This does not require a bachelor’s degree, but it does require the completion of significant undergraduate coursework.

Orthotist programs also typically require proof of vaccinations, letters of recommendation, official transcripts, GRE scores, original transcripts, and a statement of purpose or required essay. Many programs also require observation, volunteer, internship, or work experience hours in an orthotics or prosthetics practice.

The predominant accreditation entity for orthotist and prosthetist programs in the United States is the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE), in partnership with the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs​ (CAAHEP).

Accreditation assures students, other institutions, and employers that the education received meets a minimum level of quality and content. As of December 2022, there are fourteen accredited programs in the US.

Baylor College of Medicine – School of Health Professions 

The master of science program in orthotics and prosthetics at Baylor College of Medicine School of Health Professions is the only program in the country with a dual residency program, preparing students to sit for both the orthotics and prosthetics certification exams. This 30-month program comprises 12 months of classroom courses and an 18-month residency.

A state-of-the-art orthotics and prosthetics lab is just one of the many perks of this program. Because this program is housed in the College of Medicine, students can take courses across multiple disciplines. Additionally, Baylor has established residencies with 100 clinical affiliates.

Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree, GRE test scores, letters of recommendation, a personal essay, official transcripts, prerequisite courses, and a recommended 150 hours of observation of an orthotist or prosthetist.

• Location: Houston, TX
• Accreditation: National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE)
• Expected Time to Completion: 30 months
• Estimated Tuition: First year ($30,166); second year ($29,560); third year ($15,207.50)

University of Texas – Southwestern Medical Center School of Health Professions

Graduates of the master’s of prosthetics-orthotics at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center School of Health Professions are prepared to assess function, determine treatment, and craft prosthetics or orthotics to improve mobility and function.

This program strongly emphasizes community service, research, and hands-on clinical experience. All students have the opportunity to complete a one-month off-campus clinical experience. Students must complete 60 credits in courses such as biomechanics of human movement; orthotic management of the spine; prosthetic management of the lower limb; neuroscience; and human physiology.

Admission requirements include GRE scores, official transcripts, prerequisite courses, and a completed bachelor’s degree. Applicants must also provide proof of shadowing, visiting, interning, or working in an orthotics or prosthetics practice.

• Location: Dallas, TX
• Accreditation: National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE)
• Expected Time to Completion: 19 months
• Estimated Tuition: Texas residents ($25,897 total); non-Texas residents ($50,801)

Eastern Michigan University – School of Health Promotion & Human Performance

In just two years, students can graduate with a master’s of science in orthotics and prosthetics from Eastern Michigan University School of Health Promotion & Human Performance. With academic and clinical coursework, students are well-prepared for their clinical rotations and hands-on training.

There are only 12 students admitted to this program each year, which guarantees small class sizes and individualized attention from faculty. This program doesn’t have a residency component, so students must complete one separately. For the past five years, this program has had a 100 percent success rate in placing graduates in a residency. In addition, all students must complete a research project, resulting in many students publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals.

• Location: Ypsilanti, MI
• Accreditation: National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE)
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years
• Estimated Tuition: Resident ($957.25 per credit); non-resident ($1659 per credit)

California State University, Dominguez Hills

The master’s of science in orthotics and prosthetics at California State University, Dominguez Hills, teaches evaluation, fabrication, and fitting of custom limbs and braces. This program is housed in the Orthotic and Prosthetic Education Center, a 12,000-square-foot facility for clinical, laboratory, and lecture classes.

Students in this program have the unique opportunity to complete their clinical rotations at the Veteran Administration, where they can help treat combat-wounded veterans. There are also clinical rotations at local medical clinics to provide students with a well-rounded education.

In total, students must complete between 64 to 66 credits to earn this degree. Admission to this program is competitive, and students must complete prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy and physiology, psychology, and statistics. Other admission requirements include GRE scores (recommended but not required), 40 hours of volunteer work in orthotics and prosthetics, and a completed application.

• Location: Los Alamitos, CA
• Accreditation: National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE)
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years
• Estimated Tuition: $2,082 per unit

International Institute of Orthotics and Prosthetics

The International Institute of Orthotics and Prosthetics is an independent educational institution dedicated strictly to orthotics and prosthetics. This school strives to graduate orthotics and prosthetists who are confident critical thinkers who can provide therapy to various clients. In total, students must complete 49 credits over the course of four semesters to earn this master’s of science in orthotics and prosthetics. Upon completion of this program, students must complete a residency to be eligible for board certification.

Like most orthotics and prosthetics programs, admissions to this degree are competitive. Students must complete prerequisite physics, biology, chemistry, anatomy, psychology, and statistics coursework. To be eligible for admission, students must already have a bachelor’s degree, provide two letters of recommendation, and a current resume with orthotics or prosthetics work experience.

• Location: Tampa, FL
• Accreditation: National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE)
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years
• Estimated Tuition: $1,021 per credit

Due to the hands-on nature of orthotics and prosthetics education, no fully online NCOPE-accredited programs exist. However, there are some hybrid learning options.

Concordia University – St. Paul College of Health & Science

Students can complete the master’s of science in orthotics and prosthetics at Concordia University St. Paul College of Health & Science in a flexible hybrid format. Most of the 36 required credits can be completed online except for three one-week intensive courses held on campus. This flexibility allows students to complete their degrees without sacrificing work, family life, or having to relocate.

The curriculum includes courses such as ethics and compliance in orthotics and prosthetics; orthotic and prosthetic practice management; biomechanics of human movement; clinical considerations of lower extremity orthotic management; clinical considerations of trans-tibial prosthetic management; clinical considerations of spinal orthotic management; and clinical considerations of upper extremity orthotic management.

This program is open to students who haven’t yet earned a bachelor’s degree, although having one means fewer prerequisites and admissions requirements. Graduates of this program will need to complete an NCOPE residency to practice in the field.

• Location: St. Paul, MN
• Accreditation: National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE)
• Expected Time to Completion: 22 months
• Estimated Tuition: $515 per credit

Loma Linda University – School of Allied Health Professions

Loma Linda University’s School of Allied Health Professions offers a hybrid learning master’s of science in orthotics and prosthetics for students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree. This is a two-year degree, with the first year being online and theoretical, and the second year in person and clinical.

This hybrid master’s requires proof of an undergraduate degree. In addition to other standard requirements such as official transcripts, students must submit a background check, fingerprints, and proof of vaccinations. The program requires proof of 80 hours of observation in an orthotic or prosthetic clinic and a letter of recommendation from the clinic.

This 100-credit program includes courses such as anatomy and physiology for O&P professionals; patient assessment/kinesiology; pathology; spinal orthotics; psychosocial aspects of healthcare; pharmacology in rehabilitation; patient management and documentation; bionics & cyborg technology; and crisis counseling.

• Location: Loma Linda, CA
• Accreditation: National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE)
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years
• Estimated Tuition: Year one ($24,400); year two ($36,600)

Northwestern University – Feinberg School of Medicine

The first six months of the 21-month master’s of prosthetics and orthotics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine can be completed entirely online. Then students must then travel to campus for 12 months of intensive hands-on clinical studies. The final three months of the program are also distance learning, where students complete in-depth studies in their primary area of interest. Upon completing this program, students are prepared to apply for and complete their residency.

Applications for this flexible program are accepted on a rolling basis. Each year 48 students are accepted into the program, and all applications are considered until all the seats are filled. Unlike other programs, Northwestern doesn’t require candidates to have any experience in the field. However, most accepted candidates have 200 to 300 hours of shadowing/exposure.

• Location: Chicago, IL
• Accreditation: National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE)
• Expected Time to Completion: 21 months
• Estimated Tuition: $40,862 per year

Kennesaw State University – Wellstar College of Health and Human Services

At Kennesaw State University Wellstar College of Health and Human Services, the master’s of science in prosthetics and orthotics is offered in a flexible hybrid format. While all laboratory classes and clinicals are in person, lecture classes are offered either entirely online or hybrid. Not only does this allow students greater flexibility with their studies, but it also offers substantial savings as the online classes cost a third of the in-person ones.

This program aims to graduate entry-level orthotists and prosthetists with strong problem-solving skills grounded in science. Kennesaw houses several state-of-the-art facilities students will learn in, including a machine room, biomechanics and motion analysis lab, clinical simulation lab, and device assembly lab. This is a cohort-based program, so students will take all their courses over two years with the same students allowing them to develop a strong peer network.

• Location: Kennesaw, GA
• Accreditation: National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE)
• Expected Time to Completion: Two years
• Estimated Tuition: Online courses ($383 per credit); face-to-face courses (Resident: $296 per credit; non-resident: $1,066 per credit)

University of Hartford

Students who have already obtained a certification from the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC) but want to complete a master’s for a higher certification can complete the online transitional master’s of science in prosthetics and orthotics at the University of Hartford.

To complete this program, students must be affiliated with an ABC-certified clinic and an ABC-certified clinician to act as a mentor. Since the level of certification and education already completed can vary greatly for each student, this program is individually tailored to fit the educational goals.

One of the primary benefits of this program is that students can advance their education without having to relocate or quit their jobs because it is primarily distance learning. This program is designed for dual certification as both a prosthetist and an orthotist. Admission requirements include already holding an ABC certification, two letters of recommendation, official transcripts from undergraduate coursework, and a completed application.

• Location: West Hartford, CT
• Accreditation: National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE)
• Expected Time to Completion: one to three years
• Estimated Tuition: $650 per credit

After graduating high school, it takes six to eight years to become an orthotist or prosthetist. The amount of time it takes varies based on the program of study and length of residency.

Step 1: Graduate from High School or Complete a GED (Four Years)

A high school diploma or a GED is necessary to pursue a career as an orthotist. Most bachelor’s degree programs require one or the other, demonstrating a commitment to completing a course of education. Students interested in pursuing this career can take biology, anatomy, and physiology courses to help prepare them for college studies.

Step 2: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree (Four Years)

Most orthotic master’s programs require a bachelor’s degree; however, those do not require two to three years of completed undergraduate studies. Students pursuing a career in orthotics should complete a bachelor’s in orthotics, biomedical engineering, physiology, or even pre-med. Many master’s programs have prerequisite course requirements so students should check with their preferred programs to ensure they take the required classes.

Step 3: Intern, Volunteer, or Work in an Orthotics or Prosthetics Clinic (Optional, One to Two Months)

Many master’s programs require applicants to have completed observation hours, an internship, volunteer hours, or work experience at an orthotic or prosthetic clinic to be eligible for admission. These hours are typically unpaid, unless it is work experience, and can be completed while pursuing a bachelor’s degree.

Step 4: Earn a Master’s Degree (Two to Three Years)

A master’s in orthotics is necessary to work as an orthotist or prosthetist. These programs take two to three years to complete. Most programs have students specializing in either orthotics or prosthetics; however, the program at Baylor University prepares students to enter both fields.

Students should ensure their program is accredited by the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE) for ease of certification and licensure, if necessary.

Step 5: Complete Residency (Two to Three Years)

Some master’s programs include a residency as part of the course of study while others offer didactic courses expecting students to complete a residency independently. Students can apply for and complete residencies through NCOPE.

Step 6: Obtain Certification (Optional, Timeline Varies)

Certification for orthotists is not required, although most professionals obtain one as it denotes proficiency and is useful for employment or advancement.

The commonly obtained certification is as a Certified Orthotist (CO) through the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC). A master’s degree from an NCOPE (CAAHEP)-accredited program and an NCOPE residency are required to be eligible for the exam. The exam has multiple choice and simulation components.

Step 7: Secure Licensure (Location and Timeline Varies)

Only seventeen states require orthotists to be licensed. Licensing requirements vary by state and applicants should contact their local board to ensure they have met all the requirements.

Orthotists work with clients in various settings, including clinics, hospitals, medical equipment manufacturers, and ambulatory centers. Day-to-day job duties include:

• Evaluating clients mobility
• Writing a treatment plan to help improve mobility
• Taking measurements of the body to be able to fit patients with a brace or other supportive device
• Choosing which device will be the best fit for a client
• Fitting devices to a client
• Educating clients and family members on how to use and care for the brace or device
• Maintaining client records

Orthotists are only required to be licensed in 17 states. Most states that require licensing also require certification, among other requirements. The commonly obtained certification for orthotists is as a Certified Orthotist (CO) through the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC).

While certifications are not required for most orthotists, it is a common practice in the profession and something most employers look for. To be eligible to take the exam, candidates must have a master’s from an NCOPE (CAAHEP)-accredited program and have completed an NCOPE residency.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS May 2022), there were 9,150 orthotists and prosthetists in the United States who earned $78,240 per year on average with the following percentiles:

• 10th percentile: $40,360
• 25th percentile: $54,600
• 50th percentile (median): $77,070
• 75th percentile: $93,980
• 90th percentile: $110,120

Here are a few alternatives to a career as a prosthetist or orthotist:

Become a Physical Therapist

Physical therapists work with clients with an injury, neurological disorder, birth defect, or stroke. They provide hands-on care to improve strength, mobility, and stamina through exercise and movement.

• Typical Education: Doctor of physical therapy
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: American Board of Physical Therapist Specialties

Become a Pathologists’ Assistant 

Pathologists’ assistants work under the supervision of a pathologist. They can perform gross (initial) examinations, collect samples for analysis, and prepare specimens for testing. They work in hospitals, morgues, private clinics, and medical teaching facilities.

• Typical Education: Master’s of science in pathologists’ assistant (PAA)
• Licensing or Certifying Organization:  American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)

Become a Physician Assistant

Physician assistants work under the supervision of a licensed medical doctor but can perform many of the same duties. In most states, physician assistants can diagnose conditions, write treatment plans, assist with surgery, and even prescribe medications. They are considered physician extenders as they work under another care provider.

• Typical Education: Master’s degree
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA)

Kimmy Gustafson

Writer

At HealthcareDegree.com, Kimmy Gustafson has delivered in-depth and insightful articles since 2019, aiding prospective students to navigate the complexities of choosing the right healthcare degree. Her recent work includes topics such as the ethics of gene editing and physician assistant’s fight for autonomy.

Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.