Health Sciences/Prosthetics And Orthotics

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This course information is for local students only

Year

2010

Award

Bachelor of Health Sciences and Master of Clinical Prosthetics and Orthotics

Length

4 years full-time

Campuses

Melbourne (Bundoora)

Course description

Prosthetics and orthotics are the clinical disciplines related to the provision of prostheses (artificial limbs) to people with amputations, and orthoses (supportive devices), to people with musculoskeletal weakness or neurological disorders. Students in this course acquire theoretical knowledge of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and prosthetic and orthotic manufacturing, enhanced by strong practical skills in research methodology, clinical assessment, and the application of prosthetic and orthotic techniques.

Course structure

In first year, students undertake an interdisciplinary common year, focusing on basic human biosciences and factors influencing health, and on developing an understanding of the roles of health professionals in the health and welfare sectors. In second year, students develop skills specific to prosthetics and orthotics, and in third year, they expand on their theoretical knowledge of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and prosthetic and orthotic manufacturing.

Learning is enhanced by strong practical skills in research methodology, clinical assessment, and the application of prosthetic and orthotic techniques. In fourth year, students apply their knowledge and practical skills to the management of disorders across the lifespan. Clinical placements are a key feature from second year onwards.

Handbook

Melbourne (Bundoora)

Major areas of study

Prosthetics, orthotics, anatomy, physiology.

Overseas study opportunities

Overseas study opportunities are available.
Please see www.latrobe.edu.au/international/exchange for more information

Application

VTAC

Fee type

Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)

Scholarships

Applicants who are Australian citizens or who hold permanent humanitarian visas are eligible for a range of University-wide scholarships, including Commonwealth Scholarships. For details please see http://www.latrobe.edu.au/scholarships/prospective/uniwide/index.html

Additional costs (AUD)

Other approximate costs include A$560 for tool kit, A$26 for uniform, A$9 for name tag, A$200 for student manuals. Students can purchase uniforms, books and equipment from any supplier; these remain students' personal property. Student notes are also available free of charge online. Accommodation costs for clinical placement vary depending on venue.

Middle Band

Applicants are selected in the middle-band based on relevant employment or work experience with a prosthetic and orthotic facility, and criteria associated with VTAC's Special Entry Access Scheme.

Selection

ENTER 84.40

Extra requirements

Non-Year 12 applicants must call (03) 9479 5815 to request a Prosthetics and Orthotics Supplementary Information Form, and submit it by 25 September 2009. Late applicants must call before applying. Current Year 12 applicants must outline relevant work experience or employment on the VTAC Pi form. Applicants aged 21 or over on 1 January 2010 who have not completed a semester of tertiary level studies in the last two years must complete the STAT Multiple Choice.

For important information about clinical placements, visit www.latrobe.edu.au/health/courses/undergrad/about_courses

Prerequisites

VCE Units 3 & 4: Study score of at least 30 in English (ESL) or 25 in any other English, and at least 25 in two of Biology, Chemistry, a Mathematics (any), Physical Education, or Physics.

Semester starts

Semester 1 (March)

Additional information

Prior to undertaking professional placements, students must obtain a police check (Victoria Police: $A14.50 for local students) and provide proof of immunisations.

Career opportunities

Graduates have a range of career opportunities in major hospitals and private prosthetic-orthotic facilities. Good employment opportunities are available both within Australia and overseas.

Professional recognition

Graduates are qualified to practise in Australia and a number of overseas countries, and eligible for membership of the Australian Orthotic Prosthetic Association.

Contact information

Enquire Online
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Future Students Centre:
T 1300 135 045
E study@latrobe.edu.au
Division of Allied Health:
T (03) 9479 5815

All students may pay a Voluntary General Service Fee.
Most international students must pay for Overseas Student Health Cover