Overview
NCOPE and O&P education
The National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE) accredits orthotics and prosthetics (O&P) education and residency programs. Entry to the profession is now at the master’s level, and NCOPE works in coordination with CAAHEP for its accreditation.
The Path
From degree to certified practitioner
The route runs through NCOPE-accredited education and an ABC credential. You complete an NCOPE-accredited master’s in O&P, then an NCOPE-accredited residency, then earn certification from the ABC (American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics) — as a Certified Orthotist (CO), Prosthetist (CP), or both (CPO). About 17 states also license O&P practitioners.
- NCOPE-accredited master’sThe entry-level professional degree.
- NCOPE-accredited residencySupervised clinical training.
- ABC certificationCO, CP, or CPO — the professional credential.
- State licenseRequired in the states that regulate O&P.
Do It Yourself
Verify a program
Go Deeper
Official sources
Questions
Frequently asked questions
- Who accredits orthotics and prosthetics programs? The National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE), which accredits O&P master's and residency programs, in coordination with CAAHEP.
- Do I need an NCOPE-accredited program to practice? Yes. The path runs through an NCOPE-accredited master's and residency, then ABC certification. About 17 states also license O&P practitioners.
- What degree do O&P practitioners need? A master's in orthotics and prosthetics from an NCOPE-accredited program, followed by a residency.
- What is ABC certification? Certification from the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics — as a Certified Orthotist (CO), Prosthetist (CP), or both (CPO).
- Is O&P a licensed profession? About 17 states license orthotists and prosthetists; the ABC certification built on NCOPE-accredited education is the profession's standard everywhere.
- Is a residency required? Yes. An NCOPE-accredited residency follows the master's and precedes ABC certification.
- Is NCOPE recognized? NCOPE is the recognized O&P education accreditor, coordinating with CAAHEP.
- How do I verify an O&P program? Search the NCOPE directory of accredited programs and confirm certification with the ABC.