Master of Prosthetics & Orthotics Research

The Master of Prosthetics & Orthotics Research (MPO-R) program at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine is a selective, comprehensive and specialized academic journey designed to cultivate future research leaders in the field of Prosthetics & Orthotics (P&O). This program is unique to the field of P&O in the United States, providing a one-of-a-kind opportunity for students to pursue a combined clinical- and research-intensive program.

The MPO-R Difference

Spanning over nine sessions, this program integrates training in clinical practice with additional training in rehabilitation research methods, distinguishing it from the seven-session Masters in Prosthetics and Orthotics (MPO) program which focuses primarily on clinical training. The MPO-R program curriculum covers core educational content in the MPO program, and includes two additional sessions dedicated to completing and presenting a thesis-based research study.

Students will work closely with their cohort enrolled in the MPO, benefiting from a curriculum that enhances their clinical skills, while also equipping them with the expertise needed to excel in research. The MPO-R program ensures that graduates are well-prepared to assume leadership roles in both clinical practice and research within the P&O field. By the program's end, students will have developed a robust foundation in the practical and investigative aspects of P&O, ready to significantly contribute to advancements in the field.

NUPOC Research

MPO-R students will benefit from the robust P&O research at Northwestern University Prosthetics - Orthotics Center. Learn more about our existing research, including areas of focus and published work.

The MPO-R program spans nine sessions, with two additional research-focused sessions following the existing MPO curriculum. With this extended timeline, students will complete all the requirements of the MPO program and additionally complete three additional courses and a research thesis study. The additional coursework comprises advanced topics in statistics, biomechanical research methods, scientific writing, and research study design.

The Research Thesis

Each student will conceptualize and execute a research thesis under the advisement of their research mentor and thesis committee. The program culminates in a thesis presentation (i.e., defense) delivered to their mentor, thesis committee and peers during the student’s final session. This additive curriculum to the MPO program is designed to train students to take on clinician-scientist roles in their careers, since graduates of the MPO-R program will have rigorous training in designing and executing scientific programs alongside their clinical expertise.

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