Technician Programs
The Century College Orthotic and Prosthetic Technician Programs are a self-paced, hands-on learning environment in which instructors individually guide you through increasingly more challenging tasks of skill and appliance complexity. The Technician Programs provide you with the fundamental knowledge and hand skills needed to fabricate and repair prostheses (artificial limbs) and orthoses (orthopedic braces) according to patient measurements, casts and in compliance with a physician's prescription. These programs consist primarily of hands-on bench projects reinforced by daily technical reading assignments emphasizing problem solving. Consistent participation and attendance develop your hand skills and craftsmanship, which are needed to meet the market place's high demand for quality.
The Orthotic and Prosthetic Technician programs are offered as both an A.A.S. degree and a diploma. Once you graduate from one of these technical programs, she or he may sit for the American Board for Certification (ABC) registration exam. The National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE) accredits Century College: Orthotic and Prosthetic Technician Programs.
Placement Services, provided by program advisors and instructors, assist students in locating orthotic and prosthetic technician employment locally, nationally, and internationally. A Minnesota Job Service Representative is also on campus for the student's career guidance.
The rapid changes in orthotic and prosthetic technology make it challenging to prepare today's practitioners for the workplace of tomorrow. It is important that we give students broad training to provide a solid foundation to base and expand their careers.
Orthotic Technician Program
The Orthotic Technician Program focuses you on the fabrication, modification and repair of orthopedic devices, or orthoses.
Emphasis is placed on accurate interpretation of patient measurements and castings. Certified orthotic practitioners guide your progress.
The Orthotic Technician is the person who supports the Orthotist in providing care to patients with disabling conditions of the limbs and spine by fabricating devices known as orthoses, and their components. Under the guidance and consultation with the Orthotist and or the Orthotic Assistant, the technician fabricates the orthoses in such a manner as to provide maximum fit, function, cosmetics and workmanship. The technician also repairs and maintains the orthotic devices.
Keeping current on new fabrication techniques, and properties specific to various materials, as well as being skilled with hand and power tools, are all important aspects of the technician's job. Responsibility for the performance of other technicians may also be assigned.
Coursework includes:
- Introduction to the Orthotic Lab
- Gross Anatomy
- Basic Hand Tool and Machining Skills, and Shop Safety
- Metal, Leather, Plastic and Plaster Workmanship
- Spinal Orthosis
- Foot Orthosis (FO) and Arch Supports
- Stirrup Layout, Fabrication and Shoe Modification
- Ankle-Foot Orthosis (AFO)
- Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis (KAFO)
- Thermoplastic Molding
- 180 hour Clinical Internship
Prosthetic Technician Program
The Prosthetic Technician Program focuses you on the fabrication and repair of artificial limbs (prostheses), prosthetic sockets, and the shaping and finishing of these devices. Certified prosthetic practitioners guide each student's progress.
The prosthetic technician is the person who supports the Prosthetist in providing care to patients with a partial or total absence of a limb, by fabricating devices known as prostheses, and their components. Under the guidance and consultation with the Prosthetist and or the Prosthetic Assistant, the technician may make positive molds. Fabrication of which must result in maximum fit, function, cosmetics and workmanship. The technician also repairs and maintains the prosthetic devices.
Keeping current on new fabrication techniques, and properties specific to various materials, as well as being skilled with hand and power tools, are all important aspects of the technician's job. Responsibility for the performance of other technicians may also be assigned.
Coursework includes:
- Introduction to the Prosthetic Lab
- Sound and Residual Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Limbs
- Hand Tool and Machining Skills, and Shop Safety
- Leather, Metal, Plaster and Plastic Workmanship
- Trans-Tibial (Below Knee) Socket Inserts, Alignment and Duplication
- Trans-Tibial Joint and Lacer Fabrication
- Trans-Femoral (Above Knee) Socket Fabrication and Alignment
- Prosthetic Finishing Techniques and Procedures
- Thermoplastic Check Socket Fabrication
- Short and Long Trans-Radial (Below Elbow) Prostheses
- Short and Long Trans-Humeral (Above Elbow) Prostheses
- 180 hour Clinical Internship
Practitioner Programs
Century College: Orthotic and Prosthetic Practitioner Programs have been preparing students for certified practitioner careers in the orthopedic fields of Orthotics and Prosthetics since 1980. Both Orthotic and Prosthetic Practitioner Programs are ten month, two-semester, post-graduate programs, which qualify graduates for a one-year residency and subsequent National Certification Exam. Twelve students are accepted annually into both disciplines where they exposed to a variety of prescriptions and are challenged to design, fabricate and fit devices using patient-models. Following each fitting and dynamic alignment session, students critique their efforts with the aid of videotaped evaluations and instructor assessment of patient-model gait, device compliance and success of treatment.
Practitioner curricula consist of:
- Lectures including visiting doctors, surgeons, occupational therapists, physical therapists, field specialists, product vendors, the National Red Cross and University of Minnesota Medical School faculty.
- Demonstrations include abridged seminars by product manufactures and engineers Lab work challenges students with hands-on opportunities to practice fabrication techniques and develop hand skills required to build fundamental appliances common in today's marketplace.
- Clinical work emphasizes both patient management and cooperation between the surgeon, practitioner, physical therapist, technician and client vital in the role of successful treatment.
- Field trips to regional hospitals and clinics, orthotics and prosthetics facilities, and the University of Minnesota Medical School
Century College: Prosthetic and Orthotic Practitioner Programs are accredited by the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE) Commission on Accreditation of Applied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) --a branch of the American Medical Association
Prerequisites:
The following prerequisites are established by the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE) and adopted by Century College for the Practitioner Certificate Programs.
- A Bachelor's Degree in any field
3 semesters or 4 quarter credits with a "C" or better in:
- Biology
- Psychology
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Chemistry
- College Algebra or higher math
Minimum of 4 semester credits or 5 quarter credits in:
- Human Anatomy
- Human Physiology
Prior technical experience in Orthotic or Prosthetics corresponding to the respective program applied for. Acceptable technical experience shall include:
- Graduate of an NCOPE accredited Technician Program 2080 hours of work experience as a technician plus minimum fabrication requirements under an ABS certified Practitioner.
- Century College: Prosthetic Practitioner Program provides you with a comprehensive curriculum including the design, fabrication and fitting of replacement appliances, known as prostheses, for patients with partial or total absence of a limb.
- The prosthetist works directly with physicians and therapists to provide patient care and management as an integral part of the prosthetic treatment. Practitioners formulate prosthetic prescriptions, followed by measuring and casting residual and sound limbs, selecting materials and components, patient fitting, static and dynamic alignment of the device, gait training, result assessment and follow up, all in conformity with the attending physicians' prescription. After a one-year residency, the orthotist may sit the National Certification Exam.
Coursework includes:
- Sound and Residual Anatomy
- Standard Patella Tendon Bearing (PTB) Prosthesis
- Trans-Tibial Prosthesis
- Variations and Current Trends in the Trans-Tibial Prosthesis
- Trans-Femoral Prosthesis
- Trans-Femoral Suction Prosthesis
- Knee and Hip Disarticulation Prostheses
- Trans-Femoral Hydraulic Knee Prosthesis
- Long Trans-Radial Prosthesis
- Short Trans-Radial Prosthesis
- Myoelectric Prosthesis
- Trans-Humeral Prosthesis
- 7 week Clinical Internship
What I hear, I forget.
What I see, I remember.
What I do, I know.
-- Steve Stolberg, CP Prosthetic Practitioner Instructor
Patient experience
Students are required to fabricate, fit and dynamically align 5 below knee (BK), 5 above knee (AK), and 5 upper extremity/arm prostheses. In addition, each student assists a fellow with her or his duties thereby effectively doubling their hands-on patient load to a total of 30 patient-model fittings.
Prosthetic Practitioner
Advanced Specialty DiplomaProsthetic Practitioner
Total Number of Credits: 40
Program Description
The Prosthetic Practitioner program prepares you for entry into the field of Prosthetics at the practitioner level. A prosthetic practitioner (Prosthetist) provides care for patients with partial or total absence of the limbs by designing, fabricating, and fitting devices known as prostheses. Didactic and laboratory coursework is combined with patient interaction in the areas of lower limb and upper limb. Each of these areas contains instruction in anatomy, pathology, kinesiology, pathomechanics, and prosthetic design principles. Specialty courses covering gait analysis, biomechanics, muscle testing and material science are also included in the program. The practicum section enables you to practice clinical patient management skills in a prosthetic facility for a minimum of 250 hours.
The program is accredited by CAAHEP through the National Commission in Prosthetics and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE) and fulfills the requirement to enter a post graduation residency program and also sit for the American Board for Certification examination in Prosthetics.
The Prosthetist is a prosthetic practitioner who provides care to patients with partial or total absence of a limb, by fitting them with devices known as prostheses. In consultation with and at the direction of the physicians, the Prosthetist assists in determining the proper prostheses based on individual patient needs. In providing this, the Prosthetist is responsible for the formulation of it's design, measurements, modifications, material selection, and layouts. Other aspects of care include fitting, aligning, and evaluating the prostheses in order to obtain maximum fit, function, cosmetics and workmanship, as well as patient education and records. The Prosthetist must have current knowledge of all new developments concerning patient care. Other aspects of the job could include supervision of support staff, activities occurring in the lab during fabrication of prostheses, and possibly giving lectures and demonstrations to colleagues and other professionals involved in prosthetic care. Participation in research may also be requested.
Application Requirements
The following will be required as prerequisites for the Century College Prosthetic Practitioner program. These prerequisites are established by the National Commission of Orthotic and Prosthetic Education.
A Bachelor's Degree in any major.
The following courses with a grade of "C" or higher are required. A minimum of 3 semester or 4 quarter credits is recommended.
- Biology
- Chemistry
- College Algebra or Higher Math
- Physics
- Psychology
The following courses are required. A minimum of 4 semester or 5 quarter credits is recommended.
- Human Anatomy, including a Lab
- Human Physiology, including a Lab
Prior technical experience in prosthetics is recommended. Acceptable technical experience shall include:
- Graduate of an NCOPE accredited Prosthetic Technician program, OR 2080 hours of work experience as an Prosthetic Technician, plus minimum fabrication requirements under an ABC Certified
Criminal background study
Career/Occupational Requirements: 40 credits
- PrPr 2900 Introduction to Prosthetic Practitioner Program 3
- PrPr 2905 Standard (Patella Tendon Bearing) (PTB) Prosthesis 3
- PrPr 2910 Trans-Tibial (PTB) Prosthesis 3
- PrPr 2915 Variation in Trans-Tibial (PTB) Prosthesis 4
- PrPr 2930 Trans-Femoral Prosthesis 2
- PrPr 2935 Trans-Femoral Suction Prosthesis 3
- PrPr 2940 Knee and Hip Disarticulation Prosthesis 1
- PrPr 2945 Trans-Femoral Hydraulic Knee Prosthesis 3
- PrPr 2960 Long Trans-Radial Prosthesis 3
- PrPr 2965 Short Trans-Radial Prosthesis 3
- PrPr 2970 Externally Powered Prosthesis 2
- PrPr 2975 Trans-Humeral Prosthesis 3
- PrPr 2990 Prosthetic Practitioner Practicum 7
Orthotic Practitioner Program
The Century College Orthotic Practitioner Program provides you with a knowledge base for the care of patients with disabling conditions of limb or spine by designing, fabricating and fitting devices known as orthoses. The orthotic practitioner assists in formulating a prescription for an orthosis and examines and evaluates a patient's orthotic need. They work directly with physicians and therapists, with duties including formulation of prescriptions, measuring and casting limbs and torso, model rectification, selection of materials and components, patient fitting, adjustments, need-adaptations, and repairs, all in conformity with the attending physicians' prescription.
Additionally, patient care, management and record keeping are integral parts of the orthotic treatment. After a one-year residency, the orthotist may sit for the National Certification Exam.
The Orthotist is an Orthotic practitioner who provides care to patients with disabling conditions of the limbs and spine, by fitting them with devices known as orthoses. In consultation with and at the direction of the physicians, the Orthotist assists in determining the proper orthoses based on individual patient needs. In providing this, the Orthotist is responsible for the formulation of it's design, measurements, modifications, material selection, and layouts. Other aspects of care include fitting, aligning, and evaluating the orthoses in order to obtain maximum fit, function, cosmetics and workmanship, as well as patient education and records. The Orthotist must have current knowledge of all new developments concerning patient care. Other aspects of the job could include supervision of support staff, activities occurring in the lab during fabrication of orthoses, and possibly giving lectures and demonstrations to colleagues and other professionals involved in orthotic care. Participation in researh may also be requested.
Coursework includes:
- Applied Orthotic Biomechanical Physics and Patient Analysis
- Functional Orthotic and Pathologic Anatomy
- Patient Evaluation
- Foot Orthoses (FO) and Ankle Orthoses (AFO)
- Ankle Foot Orthoses/Plastic and related Anatomy and Pathologies
- Ankle Foot Orthoses/Metal and related Anatomy and Pathologies
- Knee Ankle Foot Orthoses (KAFO)
- Fracture Orthoses
- Upper Limb Orthoses
- Spinal Orthoses and Fitting
- Scoliosis Treatment and Cervical Traction
- Mobility and Adaptive Equipment
- 7 week Clinical Internship
Patient experience
Student orthotists evaluate, cast and measure, design, fabricate and fit orthoses to patient-models in the each of the major areas of clinical practice coursework during the academic year. Under the instructors guidance student orthotists practice a variety of patient management techniques in both clinical and laboratory settings.
Program points of pride
- The Century College Orthotics and Prosthetics (O&P) program graduates comprise 43 percent of the technicians and 13 percent of the practitioners that entered the profession in 2005.
- The Orthotics and Prosthetics programs have drawn students from every state in our 30 year history. Internationally we have had students attend the program from Japan, China, Korea, Australia, Columbia, El Salvador, Mexico, Canada, New Zealand, Germany, Nigeria, India, Puerto Rico, Liberia and Lithuania.
- Century College has the largest, most complete Orthotics and Prosthetics library in the world. This accomplishment is a result of an intensive undertaking by Cheryl Langeven and the O&P faculty. Inquiries for O&P resources held at CCTC are world wide. Even the Library of Congress consults our collection.
- The Orthotics and Prosthetics programs have five program scholarships with awards totaling $8,000.00 in 2005.
- Of all the Orthotics and Prosthetics professional workings in Minnesota 75% are Century College graduates.
- The Orthotics and Prosthetics programs have solicited over $300,000.00 in donations of supplies, materials, equipment and components in the last 2 academic years.
- The Orthotics and Prosthetics programs has an endowed scholarship fund of more than $60,000.00
- The Orthotics and Prosthetics programs has established an educational fund for faculty education of more than $30,000.00
- The Orthotics and Prosthetics graduates in Minnesota provide service to an estimated 150,000 patients per year.
- Century College is the only institution in the nation to offer both Orthotic and Prosthetic technician and practitioner programs.
- Century College Orthotic and Prosthetic programs are the only institution in the nation to have an active student association, OPSA, the Orthotic and Prosthetic Student Association.
- The Orthotic and Prosthetic department hosts and annual O&P professional seminar for the seven-state area each spring.
O.P.S.A
Mission Statement
The purpose of O.P.S.A. is to promote the orthotic and prosthetic profession to Century College and the community, provide a forum for those interested in the profession, and to provide supplemental educational opportunities to students enrolled in Orthotic and Prosthetic programs.
OPSA Overview
Orthotics is the evaluation, manufacturing and application of orthotic devices used to assist in the ambulation and limb support of individuals who have some kind of skeletal, musculature, and or neurological impairment. These orthotics devices include but are not limited to leg braces, spinal braces, hand splints, and shoe supports.
Prosthetics is, in the absence of a limb (legs and arms), the evaluation, manufacturing and usage of prosthetic devices, also known as artificial limbs.
About the author
My name is Lynne Langschwager, 19 years old, and I am vice-president of OPSA. I'm originally from Bridgeport, Michigan, and I moved out to Minnesota in August of 2000. At Century College I have completed the Prosthetic Technician program and am currently enrolled in the Orthotic technician program. I will graduate from the technology programs with a dual AAS Degree in both Orthotics and Prosthetics Summer session 2002. I have been accepted to Metropolitan State University where I will complete a Bachelors degree in Human Services in May 2003. I will then enroll in the practitioner programs at Century College to complete my education.
OPSA Facilities
Coon Rapids
Winkley Orthopedic Labs / 763-546-1177
3960 Coon Rapids Blvd NW Ste 215 (55433-2569)
Golden Valley
Hanger Prosthetic & Orthotics Inc / 612-588-9047
820 Lilac Dr. N Ste 100 (55422-4614)
Maplewood
Hanger Prosthetic & Orthotics Inc. / 651-771-3500
1997 Sloan P. Ste. 24 (55117-2047)
Tillges Certified Orthotics Prosthetic Inc. / 651-772-2665
1983 Sloan Pl. Ste. 7 (55117-2004)
Minneapolis
Fairview Orthopedic Laboratory / 612-672-6653
Riverside Clinic
606 24th Ave S. Ste 301 (55454-1445)
Land of Lakes Orthotics & Prosthetic Inc. / 763-559-3004
144110 23rd Ave N (55447-4904)
Metropolitan Orthotic Laboratory Inc. / 612-879-9000
2800 Chicago Ave S. Lower Level (55407-1318)
Shriner's Hospitals for Children / 612-596-6205
2025 E. River Pkwy (55414-3604)
Winkley Orthopedic Labs / 612-863-8963
910 26th St. Ste 101 (55404-4526)
Minnetonka
Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare / 952-936-0977
6060 Clear Water Dr. W. Clinic (55343-9442
Robbinsdale
Fairview Orthopedic Laboratory Oakdale Clinic / 612-522-1746
3366 Oakdale Ave N. Ste 603 (55422-2948)
Rochester
Prosthetic Orthotic Laboratories / 507-281-5250
201 1st Ave SW (55902-3155)
St. Paul
Dan Rowe & Assoc./Div of ACTRA Rehab. Assoc. / 651-645-9481
2032 Marshall Ave (55104-5744)
Fairview Orthopedic Laboratories / 651-644-5808
2505 University Ave. W
Fabrication/Administration (55114-1507)
Fairview Orthopedic Labs/Tamarack Clinic / 651-644-9950
2200 University Ave. W, Ste 110 (55114-1839)
Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare / 651-229-3800
200 University Ave. E. (55101-2598)
OPSA Contact
- Mauricio "Mo" Morales
- OPSA President
- opsa@century.edu
- Steve Stolberg
- O&P Program Faculty
- 651-779-3311
- steven.stolberg@century.edu
Affiliations
Century College Prosthetic and Orthotic Practitioner Programs are accredited by the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE) Commission on Accreditation of Applied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) --a branch of the American Medical Association.