Our Associate Prosthetist/Orthotist program is a comprehensive ISPO accredited course. The program is open to all practicing practitioners who have at least 3 years of experience in the production of prostheses and orthoses.
Our Associate Prosthetist/Orthotist program has a modular structure. There are 5 modules, each one covering an area of prosthetics and orthotics theory and practice. Each module is approximately 6 months in duration.
These modules cover the full P&O professional profile over a period of 2.5 years.
Our teaching combines theory and practice, providing a solid and broad theoretical basis in P&O sciences, and developing strong hands-on practical skills. Developing confidence and dexterity in practical hands-on patient skills is the essence of this program. We pay special attention to preparing students for real-life situations.
Five subjects are taught online in each module: anatomy, pathology, biomechanics, and professional practice, plus one elective. Electives cover areas including material technology, information technologies, professional communication and management.
In addition to the video and presentation materials taught online, the practical training in this program is delivered through practical workshops organized once per module. Practical workshops are hands-on intensive practical training sessions with model patients. Expert trainers leading the workshop review the theory and demonstrate the practical production techniques relevant to the module. Students then replicate the techniques and produce devices for the model patients, starting with the anamnesis and finishing with a fitting and troubleshooting session. Students are supervised and advised by the expert trainers every step of the way.
We implement case presentation as a tool for practical training. Since our students are employed practitioners who normally see patients on a daily basis, they can immediately implement their acquired knowledge and skills in their daily work with patients. They report on this in the form of clinical case presentations which they upload to our e-platform. Case presentations are then read and commented on by peers, and subsequently discussed in live sessions with the whole class, led by the teachers.
At the end of the program, we hold a separate final qualification exam in front of an international commission of ISPO examiners. To qualify for this exam, students have to pass all semester exams and complete all obligatory assignments in the program. This exam has a theory and a practical part. The theoretical exam is a written test, based on knowledge learned throughout the program. The practical exam evaluates practical knowledge and skills in patient management in several P&O areas, in alignment with ISPO standards.
Students who pass the Final Qualification exam acquire the ISPO certificate and accreditation as an Associate Prosthetist/Orthotist.
You need to have:
Minimum 3 years of practical experience in the production of prosthetic and orthotic assistive devices.
High School diploma or equivalent educational level obtained in your country or abroad, which must be recognized by the educational authorities of your country (where you live).
Current employment at a P&O center (hospital, healthcare center, rehabilitation center, etc.) where you have access to patients and work directly on the fabrication of prosthetic and/or orthotic devices.
