The academic content and curriculum of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Undergraduate Program is designed to provide students with the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The program usually consists of various courses during a four-year undergraduate education.
Basic Sciences and Anatomy: At the beginning of the program, students are given basic information about the human body. This includes courses covering anatomy, physiology and biomechanics. These courses enable students to understand the structural and functional properties of the human body.
Material Science: Courses on the properties and selection of materials used in the manufacture of orthoses and prostheses. In these courses, mechanical properties, durability and biocompatibility of various polymers, metals and composite materials are examined.
Design and Production of Orthotics and Prosthetics: These courses cover the design and manufacture of orthotic and prosthetic devices. Students learn how different types of orthotics and prostheses are designed, manufactured and applied. In this process, computer-aided design (CAD) and manufacturing (CAM) technologies are also part of the courses.
Clinical Practices: Students gain experience by practicing on real patients. These courses provide students with the skills to communicate with patients, analyze their needs and provide appropriate orthotic-prosthetic solutions.
Rehabilitation In this field, the adaptation process of patients to the use of orthotics or prostheses and rehabilitation techniques are taught. These courses provide students with the ability to apply strategies to facilitate patients' return to their daily lives.
Research Methods and Ethics: Students are introduced to scientific research methods and ethical issues in the health sector. This helps students to conduct research projects and observe ethical principles in professional practice.
The curriculum of the program also includes elective courses and areas where students can gain in-depth knowledge based on their interests. In this way, students can acquire more knowledge and skills in the specific areas they want to specialize in the field of orthotics and prosthetics.
The overall structure of the curriculum is balanced to ensure that students learn both theoretical knowledge and practical applications in a comprehensive manner. This supports graduates to enter the world of work as effective and competent professionals in the field of orthotics and prosthetics.