Also called: Certified prosthetist, Orthotist
Designs and fits artificial limbs and braces for veterans, including advanced bionic prosthetics.
Prosthetists cast and scan residual limbs, build sockets, tune microprocessor knees, and work with amputees as they learn to walk or run again. The VA is a leader in advanced prosthetics. It's a rare blend of medicine, engineering, and art.
BLS orthotists and prosthetists, May 2024.
Master's degree, about 7 years after high school. Master's in orthotics and prosthetics plus a residency and certification.
Ways in: Graduate school. Training cost: $60k – $150k.
Majors to look at: Biomedical Engineering, Kinesiology, Orthotics & Prosthetics.
Growing much faster than average (about 11% over 10 years). BLS projects ~11% growth.
Low risk for 10 years. 3D scanning and printing speed fabrication; fitting limbs to each veteran stays hands-on.
Classes: Anatomy & physiology, Physics, Drafting / CAD.
Official data: O*NET occupation 29-2091.
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