Keele University

What you'll study

The programme combines taught modules, practical laboratory work, supervised clinical placements and an independent research project. Core areas include anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal and neuromuscular systems, biomechanics and gait analysis, clinical assessment and prescription, materials and manufacturing processes (including CAD/CAM techniques), socket and brace design, paediatric and geriatric considerations, and professional and ethical practice.

• Anatomy, physiology and pathology relevant to limb loss and orthotic conditions
• Biomechanics and gait analysis using motion analysis and pressure measurement
• Materials science and manufacturing for prosthetic sockets and orthotic devices
• Clinical assessment, prescription planning and outcome measurement
• Paediatric and complex case management
• CAD/CAM, digital design and additive manufacturing as applied to device production
• Research methods and a substantial dissertation or project
• Supervised clinical placements across hospital, community and laboratory settings

The course typically integrates progressively longer clinical placements so students apply classroom learning to real-world patient care under supervision. Teaching methods include lectures, small-group seminars, hands-on workshops in clinical and fabrication labs, simulated practice, and reflective clinical supervision.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a good honours degree in a relevant subject such as biomedical science, health sciences, anatomy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or engineering. A 2:1 is commonly expected, though applicants with a lower-class degree plus substantial relevant clinical or technical experience may be considered. Admissions typically involve interview and practical assessment to judge manual and clinical aptitude.

• Relevant undergraduate degree or equivalent professional qualification
• Evidence of relevant experience (clinical placements, volunteering or employment) is desirable
• Occupational health clearance, an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and immunisation records will be required prior to clinical placements
• International applicants will need to demonstrate proficiency in English through an approved test or equivalent qualification

Career prospects

Graduates go on to clinical roles as prosthetists and orthotists in the NHS, independent clinics and the private sector. Typical first roles include clinical prosthetist/orthotist, device fabrication technician, or rehabilitation team member working with physiotherapists, occupational therapists and surgeons. Experienced clinicians may progress to specialist roles (for example, paediatric or vascular service leads), clinical management, research, education or product development within industry.

Other career pathways include academic research (MPhil/PhD), clinical tutor roles in higher education, clinical audit and quality improvement, and positions with manufacturers and suppliers of prosthetic/orthotic components and digital design companies.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a clinically orientated programme delivered within a health-focused faculty with established links to regional NHS prosthetics and orthotics services. The course benefits from dedicated anatomy and biomechanics teaching facilities, hands-on fabrication and CAD/CAM workshops, and access to motion analysis laboratories for gait assessment. Small cohort sizes support close supervision during clinical placements and personalised academic support.

Keele emphasises interprofessional learning and rehabilitation-focused practice, preparing graduates to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams. Research-active staff provide supervision for dissertation projects and opportunities to engage with applied research in device design, outcome measurement and service development.