Prosthetics & Orthotics (Preparing for)
Program Description
The 90 credit Associate in Arts transfer degree is designed to meet the general education requirements at Washington State four-year institutions and includes the prerequisite courses to prepare students for entrance into a Bachelor’s degree program. Most Prosthetics and Orthotics programs, including the one in Washington State, require a Bachelor’s degree before entering the Master’s degree program. Graduates of the program must complete a one year residency to be eligible for certification and licensure to practice in Washington State.
Prosthetics and Orthotics — What is it?
Prosthetics and Orthotics is a specialized, allied health care field that helps patients regain mobility after loss of a limb, bodily part or bodily function. Prosthetics is the design, manufacturing and fitting of artificial devices to replace lost limbs, hands or feet; and, Orthotics is the design and fitting of orthopedic braces or supports to correct musculoskeletal problems. Prosthetic and Orthotic specialists examine patients, take measurements, create designs, build models and devices, fit devices, monitor patients and make adjustments as needed. They often work closely with physicians and other health care professionals to decide the type of appliance and prescription needed.
Areas of Study in Prosthetics and Orthotics:
Medical Science, Upper Extremity Prosthetics, Lower Extremity Prosthetics, Spinal Orthotics, Prosthetic and Orthotic Procedures, Biomechanics, Musculoskeletal Anatomy, Neuroscience, Kinesiology, Exercise Physiology for Rehabilitation, Research Methods, Leadership, Management and Professional/Medical Ethics.
Career Opportunities — What can I do with a Bachelor’s Degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics?
Graduates in Prosthetics and Orthotics develop highly technical, critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills to design, fabricate and fit patients needing artificial limbs or braces. In addition, Prosthetic and Orthotic Therapists teach classes, conduct research, manage businesses and provide consultation to patients and other health care professionals.
Potential employers include:
Private Practice, Rehabilitation Centers, Medical Clinics, Medical Laboratories, Medical Supply Stores, Medical Equipment Manufacturing Companies, Colleges and Universities, Non-Profit Organizations and Government Agencies such as the Veteran’s Administration. For more information, please visit the Career Center.
Transfer Possibilities — Where can I transfer?
An Associate Degree from Shoreline makes it possible for students to transfer to public and private colleges and universities throughout the U.S. with junior standing. Shoreline also has agreements with several universities to make transferring even easier. For transfer within Washington State, we offer a special degree called the AA-DTA. For international students, Shoreline also has conditional admission agreements that allow a student to be simultaneously accepted by Shoreline and a university of the student's choosing.