Prosthetics And Orthotics (Master)
This course information is for local students only
Year
2012
Award
Master of Clinical Prosthetics and Orthotics
Length
2 years full-time
Campuses
Melbourne
Course description
Prosthetist-orthotists are responsible for the provision of prostheses (artificial limbs) to people with amputations, and orthoses (supportive devices) to people with musculoskeletal disabilities. Their responsibilities include client assessment, design, fabrication, fitting and alignment of prostheses and orthoses, and monitoring and review of devices used by clients. Prosthetist-orthotists are integral members of healthcare teams, with a clinical, technical, advisory and educational role. They aim to maximise client function and comfort by providing the most appropriate prosthetic or orthotic treatment.
Download our Frequently Asked Questions (PDF 184KB) document for more details.
Course structure
In first year students develop skills in foot and ankle orthotics, upper-limb orthotics, trans-tibial prosthetics, upper-limb prosthetics, and clinically applied research. This is followed by 12 months of clinical theory and practice, with a focus on trans-femoral prosthetics and above-knee orthotics, during which students are primarily located in a clinical environment.
Please note: clinical practice and theory may extend outside of normal university semester times.
Contact hours
Approx 20 contact hours + around 30 hours of independent study and clinical professional education placements.
Subject details
Overseas study opportunities
Overseas study opportunities are available.
Please see
www.latrobe.edu.au/international/exchange
for more information
Application
Apply through VTAC by 30 September 2011.
Please download the Supplementary Form (PDF 247KB).
Fee type
Both Commonwealth Supported & full fee places available
Annual (or Total) Tuition Fee (AUD)
Indicative (2012): $22,480 per 120 credit points.
Some Commonwealth Supported Places may be available.
Scholarships
A variety of scholarships and prizes are available for postgraduate students at La Trobe. Visit the postgraduate scholarships webpage for details http://www.latrobe.edu.au/scholarships/postgraduatesAdditional costs (AUD)
Approximate costs include: A$600 for tool kit, A$40 for uniform, A$10 for name tag, and A$200 for student notes and manuals. Students can buy books, uniforms and equipment from any supplier; these remain the students' personal property. Student notes are also available free of charge online. Prior to commencing clinical or community placements, students must provide proof of immunisation. National Police Check - A$15, immunisations - approximately A$500, Working with Children Check (no cost). Accommodation for any clinical placements may vary according to the venue and location. Students without a background in prosthetics and orthotics fabrication skills will be required to complete the bridging course in P&O Fabrication skills and Occupational Health & Safety. The cost for the course is A$900 (2011 fee, subject to change).
Prerequisites
Bachelor degree completed within the last seven years. Highly recommended prerequisites are tertiary-level subjects in anatomy and physiology, including regional muskuloskeletal anatomy. Desirable prerequisites are tertiary-level subjects in biomechanics, clinical assessment, psychology, pathology, materials technology, evidence-based practice, research methods or statistics, and human movement.
Students without a background in prosthetics and orthotics fabrication skills must to complete a
Bridging Course in P&O Fabrication skills and occupational health & safety, at a cost of $900 (2011 fee, subject to change).
Semester starts
Semester 1 (March)
Additional information
In some subjects, students are expected to practise on each other during practical classes. A police record clearance and Working With Children Check are required for all clinical subjects. Students must also adhere to the Australian Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA) Ethical Code and Professional Conduct.
Career opportunities
Graduates have a range of career opportunities in major hospitals and private commercial companies. Good employment opportunities are available both within Australia and overseas, in developed and developing countries.
Professional recognition
Graduates are qualified to practise in Australia and a number of overseas countries, and eligible for membership of the Australian Orthotic Prosthetic Association.