Orthotic / Prosthetic Technician Program (S102)
Apply Now:
Domestic Students
Program Description
Leadership Claims
Supplying technical personnel for the prosthetic and orthotic profession for over 20 years.
This program is the only full-time technical training program in Canada and one of three in North America.
Program Overview
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.
Full Description
Orthotic/Prosthetic Technician is a practice-oriented, hands-on program that prepares individuals in the technical aspects of orthotic and prosthetic management. Students will learn to be competent in the use of many hand tools and specialized machines for the fabrication of orthotic and prosthetic devices.
This is a full-time program open only to thirty domestic students per intake, with classes starting every September. (Winter and summer start options are not available.) It is taught at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre by faculty currently working in the field.
To be considered, applications must be submitted to OntarioColleges.ca by February 1 of each year.
The program has many unique activities that have become fixtures in the operation of the program. Since the inception of the program, it is mandatory for all second-year technical students to present a related topic in a formal setting. These "Grand Rounds" sessions occur once a month in the presence of faculty, students and professionals from the field.
The program has a formalized Curriculum Committee which meets regularly and includes practising technicians and clinicians. The Curriculum Committee must ensure that the Orthotic-Prosthetic Technical program is responsive to and reflective of the most up to date technical theories in the profession.
Over the course of two years, students will learn how to make the following devices to help rehabilitate individuals with disabilities:
- orthoses (braces and splints)
- prostheses (artificial limbs)
New techniques, including additive design and manufacture (3D printing), support the demand for technically competent people in this field.
The orthotic/prosthetic technician makes prostheses and orthoses from technical specifications, measurements and positive plaster casts using a variety of materials, such as:
- thermosetting resins
- thermoforming plastics
- metal
- fabrics
- leather
You should consider applying if you have:
- good hand skills
- a strong background in math and human sciences
Statistical information
- student intake: 30
- average no. of applicants: 150
- classes running per year: 2
- attrition (past five years): 20%
- employment record over the past five years: approximately 85%
Program Selection Process
To apply for the Orthotic/Prosthetic Technician program, a candidate must have at least the equivalent of an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with the recommendation that applicants have credits in physics and biology, OR one can apply as a mature student.
The selection of students involves a two-step procedure:
i) Eligible applicants will be invited to take an online admissions test involving subjects covering English, physics, anatomy, and workshop awareness.
Testing will be available on Saturday, March 5, or Sunday, March 6, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time).
Scheduling and arrangements for this testing will be done via the email applicants submitted when registering with Ontario Colleges.
ii) The top 50 ranked students from the admissions testing will be invited to an online video interview between March 7 and March 11, 2022.
Online interviews will run from Saturday, March 26, to Friday, April 1, 2022.
Approximately 30 applicants are selected for the first-year class beginning in September of each calendar year.
Address:
Prosthetic-Orthotic Technician Program
George Brown College Prosthetic & Orthotic Programs
c/o SCIL/U Wing2075 Bayview Ave.
Toronto, Ontario, CANADA
M4N 3M5
Technical Program Selection Process Overview
2022 Application Process:
Online admissions test on Saturday, March 5, or Sunday, March 6, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time).
Online video interviews from Saturday, March 26, to Friday, April 1, 2022.
Thirty applicants will be selected for the class that begins in September 2022.
PLEASE NOTE: Some of our clinical or work placement partners may require students to show proof of full vaccination. As such, students who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 may not be able to complete the required field placement component of their program in the regularly scheduled time frame. Please visit this page for the latest updates on COVID-19.
Your Field Education Options
Field education plays an integral role in this program by providing both practical experience and additional learning opportunities outside of the program's curriculum.
Students will gain valuable hands-on experience by completing four weeks of placement (37.5 hours/week) under the supervision of either a certified prosthetic/orthotic clinician or a registered prosthetic/orthotic technician.
The field education experience provides the opportunity for students to start developing their own professional network and allows them to get a better understanding of a typical work environment and their role with other prosthetic/orthotic clinic members.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Graduates of this program with a B.Sc. or equivalent degree who wish to continue their studies may qualify to apply to the Clinical Methods in Orthotics/Prosthetics (Postgraduate) program. See the S407 Clinical Methods in Orthotics/Prosthetics program page for full admission requirements.
The McMaster Rehabilitation Science (MSc) program is open to students of the Orthotics & Prosthetics Technician (S102) program who meet the entrance requirements for the MSc(RS) program, can apply to this concurrently or as a postgraduate.
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ANAT 1036 | Anatomy |
| ORTH 1007 | Materials and Laboratory Techniques I |
| KINE 1010 | Kinesiology for Orthotics/Prosthetics Technicians I |
| ORTH 1008 | Fabrication Theory I |
| COMM 1007 | College English** |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| PATH 1013 | Pathology |
| ORTH 1009 | Materials and Laboratory Techniques II |
| ORTH 1010 | Fabrication Theory II |
| KINE 1014 | Kinesiology for Orthotics/Prosthetics Technicians II |
| GNED | General Education Elective (choose two) |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ORTH 2009 | Materials and Laboratory Techniques III |
| ORTH 2011 | Externally Powered Orthotics/Prosthetics Rehabilitation |
| ORTH 2010 | Fabrication Theory III |
| KINE 1003 | Kinesiology/Biomechanics for Technicians I |
| ORTH 2012 | Pre-Graduate Work Experience I |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ORTH 2016 | Materials and Laboratory Techniques |
| ORTH 2015 | Professional Issues in Orthotics/Prosthetics |
| ORTH 2013 | Pre-Graduate Work Experience II |
| ORTH 2017 | Fabrication Theory IV |
| KINE 1005 | Kinesiology/Biomechanics for Technicians II |
| ORTH 2014 | Advanced Material Orthotics/Prosthetics Techniques |
**Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 Introduction to College Communication before progressing to COMM 1007. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit Assessment Centre for more information.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:
- Perform all primary fabricating procedures such as vacuum molding, laminations, bending and aligning components and other such processes.
- Perform all required technical skills such as fastening, sanding, gluing, cutting, drilling, etc., at a reasonable level of competence.
- Identify and perform tasks involved in the repair and maintenance of prostheses and orthoses.
- Identify and describe the common materials used in orthotic and prosthetic practice and demonstrate the proper use of such materials.
- Develop an efficient and effective protocol for the fabrication of orthoses and prostheses, based on the appropriate prescription and directions of the certified orthotist or prosthetist.
- Identify and demonstrate the proper procedures, operating specifications and common safety practices in the use of machines, tools and the handling of materials required in the fabrication of orthoses and prostheses.
- Demonstrate a competent knowledge in the application and function of common orthotic and prosthetic appliances and their corresponding components and systems.
- Demonstrate the common orthotic and prosthetic bench or static alignment procedures necessary to prepare the orthotic or prosthetic appliance for patient fitting and articulate the principles (biomechanical, anatomical, etc.) used in determining such alignments.
- Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the pertinent biomechanical, anatomical, physiological and pathological concepts necessary for the effective implementation of technical and clinical procedures in the delivery of orthotic and prosthetic care.
- Appreciate the need to keep abreast of new techniques and developments with respect to orthotic and prosthetic care and demonstrate an ongoing commitment to the research and development of more effective prosthetic and orthotic designs and procedures.
- Appreciate the roles the orthotic/prosthetic professional bodies play in the maintenance of standards and the development of the profession and be willing to contribute toward its advancement.
- Appreciate the roles of the various health team members involved in the delivery of orthotic and prosthetic care.
- Be familiar with issues related to the supervision of support personnel and laboratory activities and also the administrative duties required in the management of a prosthetic/orthotic practise.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2021. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2022 and at later dates.
This program does not accept International students.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and the selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
- grade 11 math (M or U) or Grade 12 (C or U)
- grade 11 biology (C or U) or Grade 12 (U)
- post-secondary (college or university) courses that are equivalent to the secondary school requirements stated will be accepted (certain courses only)
- online entrance exam (English, physics, human anatomy, workshop awareness), online video interview and manual dexterity task.
Please note: physics courses are recommended prior to starting the program.
Please visit the Prosthetics and Orthotics website for more information.
** Mature Student Status (19 years or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English, math or science, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English, math or science.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
This program is available to domestic applicants only.
Special Requirements
Additional Mandatory Requirements
Pre-placement Health Form (for second-year students only)
- Second-year students must meet all the mandatory pre-placement health requirements for this program. It may take up to four months to complete all the requirements.
- All costs, service fees and fines associated with the overall health requirements are the responsibility of the student.
- For further details and to download the mandatory pre-placement health form, go to the Pre-placement website.
Police Vulnerable Sector Check (for second-year students only)
- In compliance with requests from our placement partners, all students in this program are required to have a police vulnerable sector check completed, and this check must be renewed annually before entering into field or clinical placement.
- The police vulnerable sector check process typically takes two to three months, but under some circumstances can take four to eight months. This is required to protect the clientele of our placement partner agencies, who are considered "vulnerable persons" under the law.
- Students are responsible for ensuring that the police record check covers appropriateness for "individuals being employed and/or volunteering who will be working with vulnerable person(s)."
- Students are required to keep the original copy of their police vulnerable sector check.
- Students who are unable to provide a "clear" police reference check may not be able to start their field or clinical placement and therefore may be unable to complete the program. Students who are not eligible to attend their practice placement due to a "not clear" status will jeopardize their progress in the program.
- Failure to meet the requirements for field placement will prevent students from completing the program and/or securing employment.
- The fees for the police record check vary and must be paid by the student. For more information, please visit the Pre-placement website.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
Contact Us
Phone: 416-480-5783 and leave a message at this number.
Email: applicant_info@gbcpando.com
Visit this program microsite to learn more about the Orthotics/Prosthetics programs.
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Orthotic / Prosthetic Technician Program (S102)
Apply Now:
Domestic StudentsProgram Description
Leadership Claims
Supplying technical personnel for the Prosthetic and Orthotic profession for over 20 years.
This program is the only full-time technical training program in Canada and one of three in North America.
Program Overview
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.
Full Description
Orthotic/Prosthetic Technician is a practice-oriented, hands-on program that prepares individuals in the technical aspects of Orthotic and Prosthetic management. Students will learn to be competent in the use of many hand tools and specialized machines for the fabrication of orthotic and prosthetic devices.
This is a full-time program open only to thirty domestic students per intake, with classes starting every September. (Winter and summer start options are not available.) It is taught at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre by faculty currently working in the field.
To be considered, applications must be submitted to OntarioColleges.ca by February 1 of each year.
The program has many unique activities that have become fixtures in the operation of the program. Since the inception of the program, it is mandatory for all second-year technical students to present a related topic in a formal setting. These "Grand Rounds" sessions occur once a month in the presence of faculty, students, and professionals from the field.
The program has a formalized Curriculum Committee which meets regularly and includes practicing technicians and clinicians. The Curriculum Committee must ensure that the Orthotic-Prosthetic Technical program is responsive to and reflective of the most up to date technical theories in the profession.
Over the course of two years, students will learn how to make the following devices to help rehabilitate individuals with disabilities:
- orthoses (braces and splints)
- prostheses (artificial limbs)
New techniques, including additive design and manufacture (3D printing), support the demand for technically competent people in this field.
The orthotic/prosthetic technician makes prostheses and orthoses from technical specifications, measurements and positive plaster casts using a variety of materials, such as:
- thermosetting resins
- thermoforming plastics
- metal
- fabrics
- leather
You should consider applying if you have:
- good hand skills
- a strong background in math and human sciences
Statistical Information
- Student Intake: 30
- Average No. of Applicants 150
- Classes running per year: 2
- Attrition (past five years): 20%
- Employment Record over the past 5 years: Approximately 85%
Program Selection Process
To apply for the Orthotic/Prosthetic Technician program, a candidate must have at least the equivalent of an Ontario High School Graduation Diploma with the recommendation that applicants have credits in Physics and Biology OR one can apply as a Mature Student.
The selection of students involves a two-step procedure:
i) Eligible applicants will be invited to take an online admissions test involving subjects covering English, physics, anatomy, and workshop awareness.
Testing will be available on Saturday, March 6th or Sunday, March 7th, 10a.m.-2p.m. (Eastern Standard Time), 2021.
Scheduling and arrangements for this testing will be done via the email applicants submitted when registering with Ontario Colleges.
ii) The top 50 ranked students from the admissions testing will be invited to an online video interview between March 7th and March 27th, 2021.
Online interviews will run from Saturday, March 27th to Friday, April 2nd.
Approximately thirty applicants are selected for the first-year class beginning in September of each Calendar year.
ADDRESS:
Prosthetic-Orthotic Technician Program,
George Brown College Prosthetic & Orthotic Programs
c/o SCIL/U Wing,
2075 Bayview Ave.,
Toronto, Ont. CANADA, M4N 3M5
Technical Program Selection Process Overview
2021 Application Process:
Online admissions test on Saturday, March 6th or Sunday, March 7th, 10a.m.-2p.m. (Eastern Standard Time), 2021.
Online video interviews from Saturday, March 27th to Friday, April 2nd, 2021.
Thirty applicants are selected for the class that begins in September 2021.
PLEASE NOTE: Some of our clinical or work placement partners may require students to show proof of full vaccination. As such, students who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 may not be able to complete the required field placement component of their program in the regularly scheduled time frame. Please visit this page for the latest updates on COVID-19.
Your Field Education Options
Field education plays an integral role in this program by providing both practical experience and additional learning opportunities outside of the program's curriculum.
Students will gain valuable hands-on experience by completing four weeks of placement (37.5 hours/week) under the supervision of either a certified prosthetic/orthotic clinician or a registered prosthetic/orthotic technician.
The field education experience provides the opportunity for students to start developing their own professional network and allows them to get a better understanding of a typical work environment and their role with other prosthetic/orthotic clinic members.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Your Career
Upon graduation, students have the initial competencies to function as an integral team member in the delivery of Orthoses and Prostheses. Graduates are also eligible to sit national registration exams after working in the profession for 2 years under the supervision of a certified practitioner. Upon successful completion of these exams, Alumni are eligible to apply for professional registration with Orthotics Prosthetics Canada (formerly the "Canadian Board of Certification").
Excellent employment opportunities are available across Canada in:
- hospitals
- rehabilitation centres
- private facilities
Educational Pathways
Graduates of this program with a B.Sc. or equivalent degree who wish to continue their studies may qualify to apply to the Clinical Methods in Orthotics/Prosthetics (Postgraduate) program. See the S407 Clinical Methods in Orthotics/Prosthetics program page for full admission requirements.
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ANAT 1036 | Anatomy |
| ORTH 1007 | Materials and Laboratory Techniques I |
| KINE 1010 | Kinesiology for Orthotics/Prosthetics Technicians I |
| ORTH 1008 | Fabrication Theory I |
| COMM 1007 | College English |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| PATH 1013 | Pathology |
| ORTH 1009 | Materials and Laboratory Techniques II |
| ORTH 1010 | Fabrication Theory II |
| KINE 1014 | Kinesiology for Orthotics/Prosthetics Technicians II |
| GNED | General Education Elective (choose two) |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ORTH 2009 | Materials and Laboratory Techniques III |
| ORTH 2011 | Externally Powered Orthotics/Prosthetics Rehabilitation |
| ORTH 2010 | Fabrication Theory III |
| KINE 1003 | Kinesiology/Biomechanics for Technicians I |
| ORTH 2012 | Pre-Graduate Work Experience I |
| GSCI 1056 | Computers in Our Society |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ORTH 2016 | Materials and Laboratory Techniques |
| ORTH 2015 | Professional Issues in Orthotics/Prosthetics |
| ORTH 2013 | Pre-Graduate Work Experience II |
| ORTH 2017 | Fabrication Theory IV |
| KINE 1005 | Kinesiology/Biomechanics for Technicians II |
| ORTH 2014 | Advanced Material Orthotics/Prosthetics Techniques |
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Perform all primary fabricating procedures such as vacuum molding, laminations, bending and aligning components, and other such processes.
- Perform all required technical skills such as fastening, sanding, gluing, cutting, drilling, etc., at a reasonable competence.
- Identify and perform tasks involved in the repair and maintenance of prostheses and orthoses.
- Identify and describe the common materials used in orthotic and prosthetic practise and demonstrate the proper use of such materials.
- Develop an efficient and effective protocol for the fabrication of orthoses and prostheses, based on the appropriate prescription and directions of the Certified Orthotist or Prosthetist.
- Identify and demonstrate the proper procedures, operating specifications and common safety practices in the use of machines, tools and the handling of materials required in the fabrication of orthoses and prostheses.
- Demonstrate a competent knowledge in the application and function of common orthotic and prosthetic appliances and their corresponding components and systems.
- Demonstrate the common orthotic and prosthetic bench or static alignment procedures necessary to prepare the orthotic or prosthetic appliance for patient fitting and articulate the principles (biomechanical, anatomical, etc.) used in determining such alignments.
- Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the pertinent biomechanical, anatomical, physiological and pathological concepts necessary for the effective implementation of technical and clinical procedures in the delivery of orthotic and prosthetic care.
- Appreciate the need to keep abreast of new techniques and developments with respect to orthotic and prosthetic care and demonstrate an ongoing commitment to the research and development of more effective prosthetic and orthotic designs and procedures.
- Appreciate the roles the Orthotic/Prosthetic professional bodies play in the maintenance of standards and the development of the profession and be willing to contribute toward its advancement.
- Appreciate the roles of the various health team members involved in the delivery of orthotic and prosthetic care.
- Be familiar with issues related to the supervision of support personnel and laboratory activities and also the administrative duties required in the management of a prosthetic/orthotic practise.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2020. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2021 and at later dates.
This program does not accept International students.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and the selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
- Grade 11 Math (M or U) or Grade 12 (C or U)
- Grade 11 Biology (C or U) or Grade 12 (U)
- Post-secondary (college or university) courses that are equivalent to the secondary school requirements stated will be accepted (certain courses only)
- Online Entrance Exam (English, Physics, Human Anatomy, Workshop Awareness), online video interview and manual dexterity task.
Please note: Physics courses are recommended prior to starting the program.
Please visit the Prosthetics and Orthotics website for more information.
** Mature student status (19 years or older and no OSSD)
Mature Students may take the Admissions Assessment for English, Math or Science, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English, Math or Science.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
This program is available to domestic applicants only.
Special Requirements
Additional Mandatory Requirements
Pre-placement Health Form (for second year students only)
- Second year students must meet all the mandatory pre-placement health requirements for this program. It may take up to four months to complete all the requirements.
- All costs, service fees and fines associated with the overall health requirements are the responsibility of the student.
- For further details and to download the mandatory pre-placement health form, go to the pre-placement website.
Police Vulnerable Sector Check (for second year students only)
- In compliance with requests from our placement partners, all students in this program are required to have a police vulnerable sector check completed, and this check must be renewed annually before entering into field or clinical placement.
- The police vulnerable sector check process typically takes two to three months, but under some circumstances can take four to eight months. This is required to protect the clientele of our placement partner agencies, who are considered "vulnerable persons" under the law.
- Students are responsible for ensuring that the police record check covers appropriateness for "individuals being employed and/or volunteering who will be working with vulnerable person(s)."
- Students are required to keep the original copy of their police vulnerable sector check.
- Students who are unable to provide a "clear" police reference check may not be able to start their field or clinical placement and therefore may be unable to complete the program. Students who are not eligible to attend their practice placement due to a "not clear" status will jeopardize their progress in the program.
- Failure to meet the requirements for field placement will prevent students from completing the program and/or securing employment.
- The fees for the police record check vary and must be paid by the student. For more information, please visit the pre-placement website.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
Contact Us
Phone: 416-480-5783 and leave a message at this number.
Email: applicant_info@gbcpando.com
Visit the program website.
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
