Orthopedic Technology - Associate's Degree Program

Orthopedic Technology

The Orthopedic Technology associate degree program prepares students to assist physicians in the care and treatment of patients with musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. Through classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical experiences, students learn skills such as applying and removing casts and splints, assisting with orthopedic procedures, and supporting patient care in orthopedic clinics and other healthcare settings.

Sample of reported job titles: 

  • Medical Appliance Technicians
  • Certified Pedorthotist
  • Lab Technician
  • Orthopedic Technician
  • Orthotic and Prosthetic Technician (O and P Technician)
  • Orthotic Technician
  • Prosthetic Technician
  • Prosthetics Technician
  • Registered Prosthetic Orthotic Technician

Wages & Employment Trends: 

  • Median Wages (2026): $31.26 hourly, $65,010 annual 
  • Employment (2024): 56,100 employees
  • Projected Growth (2024 – 2034): Much faster than average (7% or higher)
  • Projected Job Openings (2024 – 2034): 4,100

Program Information for Students and Parents

  • Will this pathway require an additional year of college after high school graduation? Yes
  • Will this pathway exceed their 30 hours of Georgia Student Finance Commission (Dual Enrollment) funding? Yes
  • Dual Enrollment (DE) Hours Required for the Pathway: 69
  • Age Requirements for the Pathway: None
  • Class Size: 12 students 
  • How many students will be admitted per high school in Houston County? 2-3
  • Number of Clinical Hours Earned: 540
  • Are prerequisites required? Yes. Students must take DE Biology 2113 and 2114 as a junior to be eligible for this program.

Sources:

https://georgiadata.org/topics/labor/occupation-projections#:~:text=Employment%20counts%20under%2040%20are,%2C%20Occupation%20Outlooks%2C%202022-2032
https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/29-1129.00 

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