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Profession: Rehabilitation Therapy

Orthotist & Prosthetist: Orthotists (COs) and Prosthetists (CPs) are certified specialists who make and fit upper and lower limb devices designed to replace or repair those lost or disabled through injury or disease. Orthotists make and fit orthopaedic braces; prosthetists make and fit artificial limbs. Some people may be qualified to work in both areas.

Salary Range: $43,810 - $81,300

Salary Notes: Certified individuals earn between $43,810 -$81,300.

Where you can study:
Newington Certificate Program in Orthotics & Prosthetics, Newington, CT

Where you might work:
Government Agencies - Hospitals - Laboratories - Private Practice -

Job Outlook: As medical and technological advances in the field of orthotics and prosthetics continue, demand for skilled and experienced workers will be considerable. Jobs for orthotists and prosthetists is expected to grow about as fast as average for all occupations through 2016.

Education, Licensing and Certification: A bachelor degree, specific training courses in orthotics and prosthetics, and at least one year of supervised experience in the field. There are only a few accredited training programs in the U.S. and they award either a bachelor degree or a certificate. There are no academic institutions in New England that offer a degree in Orthotics and Prosthetists, but there is a certificate program offered through the Newington Certificate Program in Orthotics & Prosthetics. The Newington Certificate Program is a 9-month post-graduate program.

Professional Organizations:
American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP) 202-380-3663 www.oandp.org