You can do a degree in prosthetics and orthotics.

Your degree must be approved by the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists and the Health and Care Professions Council.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
• 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree

You could take a Prosthetist and Orthotist Level 6 Integrated Degree Apprenticeship to become a prosthetist and orthotist.

You could start by taking a Prosthetic and Orthotic Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship. This would allow you to become a technician, supporting prosthetists and orthotists. After this, you may be able to move onto the level 6 degree apprenticeship to progress to a prosthetist and orthotist.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

You'll need:

• knowledge of medicine
• sensitivity and understanding
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• excellent verbal communication skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• knowledge of psychology
• the ability to work well with your hands
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

Your duties will depend on whether you work as a prosthetist, an orthotist or a mix of both.

As a prosthetist, you'll create and fit artificial limb replacements.

As an orthotist, you'll use technology to correct problems with nerves, muscles and bones.

Prosthetic and orthotic tasks

In a role with a mixture of prosthetic and orthotic work, you'll typically:

• work out what a patient needs before a device is made or fitted
• discuss treatment plans with physiotherapists and surgeons
• work with technicians to make the final product using computer software
  
• check that the appliance or limb is comfortable and working properly
  
• check how a patient is coping with their device and make changes or repairs if needed

You could work at a health centre, at a client's home or in an NHS or private hospital.