Prosthetist-orthotist

You can do a degree in prosthetics and orthotics, approved by the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists and the Health and Care Professions Council.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
• 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• university courses and entry requirements

You can get into this career through a prosthetist-orthotist degree apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

Further information

You can get more advice about a career as a prosthetist and orthotist from Health Careers and the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists.

You'll need:

• knowledge of medicine and dentistry
• customer service skills
• sensitivity and understanding
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

As part of your role, you may:

• design and fitting surgical appliances (orthoses) like braces, callipers and splints
• work with people recovering from a stroke, those with rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or cerebral palsy
• assess a patient's needs before they have an artificial limb or appliance fitted
• take measurements and using computer modelling to produce a design of the prostheses or orthoses
• explain a finished design to a technician, who will produce the final product
• carry out follow-up checks with patients to see how they are coping with their device
• make sure the appliance or limb is functioning properly, and is comfortable
• carry out adjustments or repairs

You could work at a health centre, at a client's home or in an NHS or private hospital.