Prosthetist and orthotist
Prosthetists and orthotists use the latest technology to create devices that help patients move without pain.
- Starter salary£32,000 a year
- Experienced£48,000 a year
- Typical hours37 to 40 a week
What you'll do
Your duties will depend on whether you work as a prosthetist, an orthotist or a mix of both.
As a prosthetist, you'll create and fit artificial limb replacements.
As an orthotist, you'll use technology to correct problems with nerves, muscles and bones.
Working environment
You could work at a health centre, at a client's home or in an NHS or private hospital.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- knowledge of biology and how the body works
- sensitivity and understanding
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
- excellent verbal communication skills
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- knowledge of psychology
- the ability to work well with your hands
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
How to become a prosthetist and orthotist
You can get into this job through a university course or an apprenticeship.
University
You can do a degree in prosthetics and orthotics.
Your degree must be 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
Apprenticeship
You could take a Prosthetist and Orthotist Level 6 Integrated Degree Apprenticeship to become a prosthetist and orthotist.
You could start by taking a Prosthetic and Orthotic Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship. This would allow you to become a technician, supporting prosthetists and orthotists. After this, you may be able to move onto the level 6 degree apprenticeship to progress to a prosthetist and orthotist.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
Restrictions and requirements
You'll need to:
- pass enhanced background checks
Career path and progression
With experience, you could:
- manage a team of prosthetists and orthotists
- specialise in a certain area, such as sports injuries, diabetes injuries or children's prosthetics
- teach trainee prosthetists and orthotists
- move into researching and developing new products
Guides for this industry
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