Accredited Prosthetic and Orthotic Programs

There are two Clinical Methods in Prosthetics and Orthotics programs in Canada that are available to become a Certified Orthotist or a Certified Prosthetist in Canada. Graduation from one of these schools is one step of the credentialing process. Each program is two years in length. Graduates of these programs can enter a residency/internship upon completion of the program. There is one accredited technician program in Canada. It is two years in length and graduates can enter the Internship program upon completion to pursue the Registered Technician credential.

Training to become a CO(c) or CP(c) requires:

  1. A university degree
  2. Two years in an accredited post graduate prosthetics and orthotics program
  3. Two years of residency under the supervision of a Certified Orthotist or Prosthetist
  4. Successful completion of national written and practical credentialing exams

The two clinical methods in Prosthetics and Orthotics Programs in Canada are:

British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) Clinical Program

BCIT's Prosthetics and Orthotics Diploma is one of two programs of its kind offered in Canada. Innovative, analytical, and patient-centered, this field is a unique blend of science, technology, and clinical care.

Prosthetists and orthotists transform physical disabilities into new mobility opportunities for their patients. Using specialized medical assessment techniques and leading edge technology, prosthetists and orthotists create treatment plans for the unique needs of each patient. Our program gives students the skills to help patients gain and regain mobility and quality of life.

BCIT accepts 12 new students into the program every second year. BCIT only accepts applications from individuals from BC, AB, SK and MB. Currently MB holds one spot.

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George Brown College (GBC) Clinical Program

Clinical Methods in Orthotics/Prosthetics is a joint program with Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and other facilities that teaches you how to assess and fit patients with artificial limbs, braces and splints. This program is unique in Ontario.

GBC accepts 10 new students into the clinical program each year. Eight students will be accepted to attend the Toronto-based program, and two students will be accepted to the Winnipeg-based program. Applicants can come from any province.

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There are two pathways to become a Registered Technician in Canada.

Method I

  1. High school diploma
  2. Completion of the two year accredited Orthotic/Prosthetic Technician Program at George Brown College in Toronto
  3. Register for OPC Internship Program
  4. Completion of a two year internship in prosthetics or orthotics under the supervision of a Registered Technician or Certified clinician in the appropriate discipline.
  5. Successful challenge of the written and practical national board exams.

Method II (do not need to complete the two year George Brown College Technician program)

  1. High school diploma
  2. Register for OPC Internship Program
  3. Completion of a four year internship in prosthetics or orthotics under the supervision of a Registered Technician or Certified clinician in the appropriate discipline.
  4. Successful challenge of the written and practical national board exams.
  5. Adherence to the Canons of Ethical Conduct.

George Brown College (GBC) Technical Program

Orthotic/Prosthetic Technician is a practice-oriented, hands-on program that teaches students to be competent with many hand tools and specialized machines used in the fabrication of orthotic and prosthetic devices. This program is unique in Canada.

GBC accepts 30 new students unto the technical program each year. Applicants can come from any province.

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