Orthotics and Prosthetics

Welcome to the Department of Orthotics and Prosthetics Education (O&P)

The department faculty members are excited to share their interests and expertise with you!

About the Profession

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]

Can you imagine what life would be without the ability to stand, walk, or run? Can you imagine not being able to participate in your favorite activities? Can you also imagine how satisfying it would be to help restore someone's ability to live an active lifestyle once again?

If you have an inquisitive mind, an interest in people, a desire to use your hands while helping people to get back to a full life we think you will love what a career in orthotics and prosthetics has to offer. We invite you to check out our programs.

The Department of Orthotics and Prosthetics Education offers an entry level-Masters of Science degree in orthotics and prosthetics (el-MSOP). el-MSOP program accepts applications from all students; with and without a bachelors degree. Any student who has completed a minimum of 64 semester or 96 quarter credit units at a regionally accredited college or university and has a 3.0 GPA in both science and non-science coursework is encouraged to apply. The ten-quarter program prepares students to pursue certification in both orthotic and prosthetics disciplines and to work in hospitals, clinics and private practices.

The Department of Orthotics and Prosthetics Education additionally offers a PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences with a concentration in O&P, offering opportunities for qualified clinical professionals to prepare for careers in independent research, teaching, and administration. It is the goal of this program to prepare graduates who will provide vision and direction for the integration of the rehabilitation professions; advance the theory and practice of rehabilitation science through research; and acquire and integrate knowledge related to the social and basic medical sciences. More information is available information is available on the Rehabilitation Sciences PhD page.

Thank you for your interest,

Johannes Schaepper, PhD, CPO    Chair, Department of Orthotics and Prosthetic  Education