Orthotics and Prosthetics

The MSOP program application process starts with the submission of the application and all the associated documentation and recommendations. Once these materials are received and evaluated an interview will be scheduled. Once the interview is completed, the interview responses and the application packet will be presented to the department admissions committee for review and voting.

Initial Application Information:​

• The MSOP program has rolling admission and accepts applications starting October 1 and finishes September 1 for each cohort beginning at the end of September.  
• O&P Applicants will need to complete the LLU application process.
• O&P applications do NOT need to complete any secondary applications or OPCAS requirements.

General Application Guidance:

• Refer to our school's admissions page to apply online and for further admissions information.
• Contact the O&P department directly at:
  • studyoped@llu.edu or 909-558-6726 or
  • elmsop@llu.edu or 909-651-5797
• Contact the admissions department at sahpadmissions@llu.edu or 909-558-4599

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The one word that most accurately describes this profession is diversity. As an ortho-prosthetist, you may choose to work in a variety of settings. Ortho-prosthetists can work in hospitals, corporate clinics, and smaller private clinics. Ortho-prosthetists help adults and children who need assistance in the way of custom fabricated devices and specialized rehabilitation.

“Orthotics is the evaluation, fabrication, and custom fitting of orthopedic braces, known as "orthoses." Orthotics combines knowledge of anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, biomechanics, and engineering. Orthoses are externally applied devices used to modify the structural and functional characteristics of the neuromuscular and skeletal system.” ^[1]“Prosthetics is the evaluation, fabrication, and custom fitting of artificial limbs, known as "prostheses." Prostheses enhance the function and lifestyle of persons with limb loss. The prosthesis must be a unique combination of appropriate materials, alignment, design, and construction.”^[2]

Possible work environments include skilled-nursing facilities; rehabilitation centers; private, public, and proprietary clinics; and medical centers.

Changing demographics have increased demand for healthcare services, leading to a projected growth of 20% more jobs for ortho-prosthetists.^[3] This faster than average rate of growth means that there will be more jobs available to graduates.

Additionally, The School of Allied Health Professions additionally offers a PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences with a concentration in O&P in collaboration with the Department of Orthotics & Prosthetics, offering opportunities for qualified clinical professionals to prepare for careers in independent research, teaching, and administration. More information is available on the Rehabilitation Sciences PhD page.

[1] http://www.opcareers.org/what_is_op/orthotics/ , retrieved 02/13/2020.

[2] http://www.opcareers.org/what_is_op/prosthetics/ , retrieved 02/13/2020.

[3] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/orthotists-and-prosthetists.htm, retrieved 02/13/2020.

Additionally, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics stated: “Employment of orthotists and prosthetists is projected to grow 20 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. The large baby-boom population is aging, and orthotists and prosthetists will be needed because both diabetes and cardiovascular disease, the two leading causes of limb loss, are more common among older people.” https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/orthotists-and-prosthetists.htm

For information about tuition, costs, and financial aid information: School of Allied Health Professions Financial Information.

At this time, there are no scholarships available through the Department of Orthotics & Prosthetics, however some individual awards maybe available through the university, contact the financial aid office for more information.

Initial accreditation for the entry-level Master of Science in Orthotics and Prosthetics degree was granted on September 23, 2013. Continuing accreditation of the entry-level Master of Science in Orthotics and Prosthetics degree was granted on September 17, 2017. Both initial and continuing accreditation were granted by the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE), 330 John Carlyle Street, Suite 200, Alexandria, VA 22314; telephone: 703-836-7114 in collaboration with the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), 25400 US Highway 19 North, Suite 158, Clearwater, FL 33763; telephone: 727-210-2350.

ABCOP Board Exam Pass Rates

LLU Department of Orthotics and Prosthetics Graduation Rates & Exit Statistics

Exit Survey Results from Orthotics and Prosthetics Graduates - 2016-2019 

Loma Linda University is above the national average in regard to acceptance of a diverse group of students. Students come to Loma Linda from various cultural backgrounds, religions, and countries.

By the end of this program, the graduate should be able to demonstrate the following competencies:

1. Exercise keen insight, progressive care, and critical judgment through careful evaluation in clinical care, skills application, and thinking throughout the profession.
2. Adhere to guiding principles and recognized ethics of the profession.
3. Value and apply new technology, investigations, and knowledge to patient care and the profession through a commitment to discovery and education.
4. Examine the importance of embracing and serving the unmet and ever-changing needs of a diverse world.
5. Participate in teamwork within and across disciplines in all aspects of the profession.

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