Program Description

The Master of Science in Prosthetics & Orthotics is a 48 semester-hour graduate program that combines clinically oriented coursework in orthotics and prosthetics, rehabilitation medicine, and allied health science with engineering.  This degree prepares rising prosthetic and orthotic professionals for careers working with patients with limb loss or limb difference in clinical healthcare, manufacturing, and/or research sciences. The program is administered through the Department of Exercise Science and Sport Management as an interdisciplinary graduate program, collaborating with Atlanta metropolitan area hospitals, medical centers, and orthotics/prosthetics health care facilities through clinical rotations and integrated clinical research. 

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete this program will be able to: 

1. Holistically evaluate and document a patient’s status and effectively communicate a plan of care with the patient, caregivers, and the healthcare team. (Patient Communication)
2. Investigate treatment options and formulate a treatment plan based on patient status and best practices to maximize orthotic/prosthetic outcomes and minimize risk. (Proficiency in Physical Examinations)
3. Determine appropriate materials and components for orthosis/prosthesis and fabricate and/or assemble orthosis/prosthesis for patients. (Proficiency in Patient Assessment and Management)
4. Assess patient function, evaluate effectiveness of the treatment plan and modify plans to support patient progress. (Proficiency in Clinical Procedures)
5. Describe organizational policies and procedures in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations regarding clinical practice and patient care and safety. (Research and Evidence Based Practice)

 This program is a part of the Wellstar College of Health and Human Services .

Accreditation

This program is fully accredited by NCOPE (National Commission for Orthotic and Prosthetic Education) and CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs).

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Admissions, Enrollment, and Graduation Criteria

Admissions Criteria

The following are program-specific criteria beyond the general Graduate Admissions  requirements. To be considered for admission to this program, the following application materials must be submitted to the KSU Graduate Admissions Office:

• Baccalaureate degree or equivalent from a regionally accredited institution. Typical MS degree applicants have had undergraduate degrees in fields, such as exercise science, biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering, and psychology.
• An overall GPA of at least 3.00. 
• Prerequisite Course Summary and Plan of Prerequisite Completion forms.  
  • Completion of program prerequisites with a C or better prior to matriculating into the program. 
  • Prerequisites:
• Biology: lecture and laboratory (4 semester credit hours)
• Chemistry: lecture and laboratory (4 semester credit hours)
• Physics: lecture and laboratory (4 semester credit hours)
• Psychology: Introductory or General course (3 semester credit hours)
• Psychology: Abnormal or Human Growth & Development course (3 semester credit hours)
• Statistics: one lecture course (3 semester credit hours)
• Human Anatomy and Physiology: two lecture courses (6 semester credit hours)
• Resume
  • Please include the following when applicable: education, experience (work and volunteer), certifications, professional affiliations, special skills related to the field, and research presentations/publications
• Personal Statement
• A formal statement of personal goals for the program, maximum 2 pages, double-spaced, that includes the following:
  • Your experience in the field, including volunteer/shadowing experience. Your reason(s) for choosing this degree program.
  • Your experience with research (if applicable).
• Your career goals and how furthering your education with this degree will help you realize these goals.
•  Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources) who can account for your future success in the program.
• Health Immunization Requirement

In accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, students involved in clinical patient interaction are required to have the following immunizations and to provide documentation to the Student Health Services. There may be nominal costs to the student associated with obtaining the following immunizations:

• Hepatitis B
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Rubeola
• TDAP
• Varicella (or history of disease)
• Tuberculosis Screening (must be completed annually)

• Background Check
  • Following an admission offer into the program, a background check will be completed on each applicant prior to matriculation.
  • Background checks must be completed annually.
  • Failing a background check would result in rescinding an acceptance offer or dismissal from program.

Enrollment Criteria

This program does not have specific enrollment requirements. 

Graduation Criteria

Each student is expected to meet the requirements outlined in Academic Policy 5.0 PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS & GRADUATION .  

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Program Course Requirements