Prosthetics and Orthotics

Prosthetics and orthotics is a clinical discipline concerned with designing, fabricating, and fitting artificial limbs for people who have lost a limb and external supportive devices for people with musculoskeletal conditions or neurological impairments. It is a field that combines engineering principles with clinical science and patient-centred care, requiring practitioners who can understand the biomechanics of movement, the properties of materials, and the therapeutic goals of individual patients.

At the University of Strathclyde, this four-year full-time programme is based at the National Centre for Prosthetics and Orthotics, which is a nationally recognised centre of expertise and training. You will study prosthetics and orthotics science as a major element of the course, developing your understanding of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, pathology, materials science, and clinical measurement. Practical sessions at the National Centre give you hands-on experience in fabricating and fitting devices, and you will undertake a clinical placement in your fourth year that develops your professional competence in real patient care settings.

The programme develops both the technical skills to design and construct devices and the clinical skills to assess patients, set goals, and evaluate outcomes.

The typical entry tariff is 184 UCAS points, reflecting the high level of scientific and clinical knowledge required. The degree is studied full time over four years.

Graduates from prosthetics and orthotics programmes register with the Health and Care Professions Council and work in NHS hospitals and rehabilitation centres, private clinics, the military, and international development settings. Further study options include postgraduate programmes in rehabilitation science, biomechanics, and clinical education, as well as research careers in prosthetics and orthotics technology.