Orthotics and Prosthetics MS

Major: Orthotics and Prosthetics
Degree Awarded: Master of Science (MS)
Calendar Type: Semester
Minimum Required Credits: 127
Co-op Option: None
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 51.2307
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 29-2091

About the Program

We prepare the next generation of Orthotics and Prosthetics (O&P) clinicians through a hands-on, student-centered education that emphasizes belonging, engagement, and holistic patient care. Guided by ABC certified, highly skilled faculty, students gain real world experience in a laboratory intentionally designed to mirror authentic patient interactions and reinforce learning. As one of only two integrated residency programs in the nation, our graduates complete both academic and clinical training within the program, making them eligible to sit for both the Orthotics and Prosthetics board certification exams upon earning their MS degree.

Mission

The Orthotics & Prosthetics program is committed to creating an environment of belonging, well-being and respect while challenging students of orthotics and prosthetics to seek excellence through interprofessional education and evidence-based research and practice.

Vision

Developing and nurturing orthotic-prosthetic student leaders who are: inquisitive, welcoming, engaging and competent problem-solvers who have a passion for person-centered care while leading change in the profession of orthotics and prosthetics.

Additional Information

For more information about this program, contact:

Chad Duncan

jd3855@drexel.edu 

Admission Requirements

TO BE CONSIDERED, AN APPLICANT MUST:
 

• Submit a properly completed application to the Orthotics and Prosthetics Centralized Application Service (OPCAS). Detailed instructions regarding the completion of the application and the essay are provided on the OPCAS website.
• Submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended (or currently attending) directly to the OPCAS. Transcripts marked "Issued to Student" will not be accepted.
• Complete a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, prior to enrollment. It is highly recommended that an applicant has a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Students with less than a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale should consult the Admissions Office prior to applying. 
• Complete admissions prerequisites at the college level with a grade of ‘C’ or better.
• Submit two letters of recommendation. Arrange to have forwarded directly to OCPAS the following letters of recommendation on letterhead:
  • One letter must be written from a person with authority (i.e. Certified/Licensed Orthotist-Prosthetist, ISPO Level Prosthetist-Orthotist); and
  • A second letter must be written from a teaching faculty member who has taught you in a course or an academic advisor.
    • Letter from a teaching assistant only accepted if co-signed by faculty member
  • Letters from clinicians and teaching faculty members are recommended.
  • Additional letters will enhance the file but will not fulfill our required letters of evaluation. 
• A minimum of 40 hours of observation experience with an Orthotist-Prosthetist is required. Observation in multiple clinical settings is encouraged (may be volunteer and/or employment).
• Strongly recommended, but not required: Acquire a minimum of 50 hours of fabrication experience with an Orthotist-Prosthetist.
• Optional: Submit Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score results.
• International Students, please review any additional requirements in the drop down section below.
• All credentials submitted on behalf of an applicant become a part of that applicant’s file with the University and cannot be returned.
• Students will be required to meet University compliance requirements upon matriculation.
   

PREREQUISITES
 

The required coursework listed below must be completed at the college level with a grade of 'C' or better. An applicant need not have completed all prerequisites prior to filing an application, but must be able to complete all outstanding prerequisites prior to enrollment.
Credit by examination (such as AP credits) is permitted for any prerequisites needed to apply for the orthotics-prosthetics program except for the Anatomy and Physiology requirements. No credit is given for experiential learning.

A total of at least 18 semester credits are required in the following areas:

• Anatomy and Physiology (Lab recommended) **
• Life Science or Biology (Lab recommended)
• Chemistry (Lab recommended)
• Physics (Lab recommended)
• Statistics (Biology-, Psychology- or Sociology-based course recommended)
• Psychology
   

Recommended course, but not required: Developmental or Lifespan Psychology 

**One semester of Anatomy and one semester of Physiology (labs recommended) can be combined to fulfill the A&P prerequisite. Anatomy and Physiology course work completed within an Exercise Science or Kinesiology department will also be accepted. Similar course work may be reviewed on a case by case basis for an approved substitution.  
Prerequisite credits completed ten or more years prior to the anticipated entrance date will be reviewed for approval on an individual basis.

Degree Requirements

Sample Plan of Study

Program Level Outcomes

Goals

At the successful completion of the MSOP Program, students will effectively demonstrate competence in the following eleven content areas as directed by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE):

• Exemplify the role of the orthotist/prosthetist in providing ethical, patient-centered care by applying accepted professional responsibilities in clinical practice experiences.
• Practice safety of self and others, and adhere to safety procedures throughout the provision of orthotic/prosthetic services.
• Demonstrate appropriate insight into clinical practice, clinical operations and practice management.
• Demonstrate an awareness of the humanity and dignity of all patients and related individuals within a diverse and multicultural society.
• Comprehend and demonstrate knowledge of the collaborative role of the orthotist/prosthetist as a member of the interdisciplinary rehabilitation team in providing patient-centered care.
• Demonstrate the ability to employ evidence-based practice with an understanding of the research processes and how to use research findings to appropriately influence clinical practice.
• Demonstrate the ability to integrate knowledge of the fundamental concepts of human function (physical, cognitive, social, psychological) with the practice framework of assessment, formulation, implementation and follow-up of a comprehensive orthotic/prosthetic treatment plan.
• Demonstrate the ability to make clinical decisions designed to meet patient needs and expectations, and measure effectiveness of O&P intervention by utilizing (or administering) appropriate outcome measures.
• Demonstrate the ability to provide effective education to patients, their support networks, healthcare professionals and the public at large.
• Document pertinent information that supports the provision of effective communication and meets the requirements of legal, business and financial parameters for patient care.
• Demonstrate proficiency in fundamental technical procedures that support orthotic/prosthetic practice.