Program
Information Guide

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Orthotic & Prosthetic (O & P) Technicians assist the disabled by fabricating the orthopedic braces (orthoses) and artificial limbs (prostheses) necessary for their rehabilitation. O & P Technicians are trained and skilled to provide comprehensive O & P technical support services and possess the knowledge to interact with clinical prosthetists and orthotists. You will acquire knowledge in polymer processes, strength of materials and applied biomechanical principles to develop and totally customize an orthosis or prosthesis. Providing O & P care involves the application of clinical and technical processes to meet patient rehabilitation objectives.
The O & P Technician program at Francis Tuttle provides a comprehensive education in each discipline. Curriculum is designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of orthotic and prosthetic equipment and materials. You may choose to enroll in the Orthotic Technician and/or Prosthetic Technician track. Upon completion of each discipline, you will receive a certificate of completion. The academic requirements for the Associate in Applied Science degree in O & P Technician are available through Oklahoma City Community College. The O & P Technician program is nationally accredited by the National Commission of Orthotics and Prosthetics Education (NCOPE). Graduates are eligible to take the national registry examinations for technicians given by the American Board for Certification (ABC).
Limited Time Scholarship Opportunity
All new out-of-state students will receive 1/2 off tuition for one calendar year from their start date.
Accreditation
| National Commission of Orthotics and Prosthetics Education (NCOPE) which is accredited by CAAHEP. |
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Estimated Time to Complete
| Pathway | Months |
| Orthotic Technician | 11.5 |
| Prosthetic Technician | 11.5 |
| Orthotic and Prosthetic Technician | 23 |
Starting Salaries
Technicians who have earned a Certificate of Completion in Orthotics or Prosthetics can expect an initial salary of approximately $21,813. Technicians who have completed ABC certification exams in both disciplines can expect an initial salary of $28,700. Salary increases would be expected as a result of additional skills learned on the job, and experienced O&P technicians may earn up to $45,000.
Employment Opportunities
| Private orthotic and prosthetic facilities |
| O&P rehabilitation facilities |
| Orthotic and prosthetic labs in Veteran Administration (VA) hospitals |
| O&P facilities with acute hospitals |
| O&P central fabrication facilities |
Tuition Rates
Students may be required to pay for the following, as specified by the clinical site:
Physical exam and immunizations (approximately $200)
Tuition for full-time students is $2,000 (In-State) and $4,000 (Out-of-State) per year.
Tuition for part-time students is $1,425 (In-State) and $2,850(Out-of-State) per year.
Course-by-course tuition is $85 per credit hour.
Other costs include:
Textbooks (approximately $500)
Tool kits (approximately $600)
Uniforms (approximately $200)
This Focus is eligible for Financial Aid.
Background check (approximately $15)
Drug testing (approximately $36.00)
O&P Technician Registry Exams (approximately $450)
Start Dates
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August 15, 2008
September 15, 2008
October 21, 2008
November 17, 2008
January 6, 2009
February 9, 2009
March 23, 2009
April 20, 2009
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