University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

The programme combines taught biomedical science and engineering fundamentals with clinical practice and a substantial research or project component. Core themes include human anatomy and physiology relevant to limb loss and musculoskeletal conditions, biomechanics and gait analysis, materials and manufacturing methods for prosthetic and orthotic devices, clinical assessment and prescription, outcome measurement, and service delivery models in rehabilitation.

• Foundations: advanced anatomy and pathophysiology; principles of rehabilitation; evidence-based practice and research methods.
• Technical modules: biomechanics, gait analysis, materials science and device design, CAD/CAM for orthotics and prosthetics.
• Clinical practice: clinical assessment and formulation, prescription and fitting of prosthetic and orthotic devices, follow-up and outcome evaluation, paediatric and complex care considerations.
• Professional practice and service delivery: ethics, multidisciplinary working, health systems, commissioning and patient-centred care.
• Project or dissertation: an independent research project or applied clinical project that applies research methods to a question in prosthetics, orthotics or rehabilitation.

Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory practicals in gait and biomechanics labs, workshop sessions on device fabrication and modification, simulated clinical assessments and supervised clinical placements in healthcare settings. Assessment is typically by written examinations, practical assessments, coursework and the final project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a good honours degree (UK 2:1 or equivalent) in a relevant subject such as biomedical engineering, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, nursing, sports science or life sciences. Applicants with a 2:2 plus substantial relevant clinical or technical experience may be considered. Registered practitioners seeking specialist postgraduate qualification are also welcome.

Selection normally takes account of academic record, references and relevant work or voluntary experience in health, rehabilitation or technical roles. Successful applicants will need to meet any occupational health and background check requirements of clinical placement providers, and evidence of English language competence is required for international applicants (for example, an overall IELTS level and component minima consistent with postgraduate healthcare programmes).

Career prospects

Graduates go on to careers as prosthetists and orthotists in the NHS, private clinics, charitable and international organisations, and specialist rehabilitation centres. Other pathways include roles in clinical specialist services, multidisciplinary rehabilitation teams, orthotic and prosthetic manufacturing and product development, clinical research, education and policy or service development.

The programme equips graduates with clinical assessment and device prescription skills, technical understanding of device design and materials, and research literacy — all of which support progression to senior clinical roles, specialist practice, or academic and industry positions in assistive technology and rehabilitation.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

The University of Strathclyde combines strengths in engineering, health and applied research, offering access to specialist facilities such as biomechanics and gait laboratories and workshop spaces suited to prosthetic and orthotic training. The programme benefits from links with local and national healthcare providers, giving students structured clinical placement opportunities and real-world experience.

Strathclyde places emphasis on applied, multidisciplinary education and employability, with teaching delivered by staff with clinical, engineering and research expertise. The course is designed to develop both the practical clinical skills and the academic rigour needed for contemporary rehabilitation practice and innovation in assistive technology.