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Certificate of Achievement
Orthopedic Technician Program

This program of study will provide students with in-depth knowledge and skills necessary to work as an orthopedic technician. Skills include immobilization, traction, casting, splitting, and assisting physicians with orthopedic care. The program of study requires all applicants to complete BIOL 125 with a grade of “C” or better, and passing of the reading and math assessment tests scoring above READ 043 and ENGL 035 prior to application. Following acceptance into the Orthopedic Technician program, the students will complete four core orthopedic courses. In total the program of study is 19 units. Upon completion of the program, students will receive a Certificate of Achievement and be eligible to take the national certification exam through the National Board of Certified Orthopedic Technicians (NBCOT).

Please contact the Student Success Team for this program if you have any questions.

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Sample Education Plan

This sample education plan for the 2024-2025 catalog year represents one possible pathway through the program. Each university (UC, CSU, private, and others) has their own transfer requirements; please see a counselor to create an education plan that is customized to meet your needs. Additional course descriptions may be found in the College Catalog.
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
BIOL 125 - Human AnatomyM4.0
BIOL 125 - Human Anatomy (4.0 units)

Advisory:BIOL 101, BIOL 105
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is primarily a systems approach to mastering the anatomical structures of the human body. The study of each body system includes structural specializations and functions at a microscopic and macroscopic level, emphasizing the interdependence of form and function. Additional topics include methods of anatomical study, human genetics, and embryonic development. This course is intended for pre-health students specifically preparing to enter careers in the health sciences.

Total Semester Units:4.0 
2nd Semester
ORTH 040 - Introduction to Orthopedic TechnologyM4.0
ORTH 040 - Introduction to Orthopedic Technology (4.0 units)

Prerequisite:BIOL 125

This course will provide students with an introduction to the roles, professional responsibilities, code of ethics, and employment qualifications of an Orthopedic Technician. Instruction will also include the review of the musculoskeletal system as it relates to the field of orthopedic technology emphasizing loco-motor, neuro-muscular and peripheral vascular structures.

Total Semester Units:4.0 
3rd Semester
ORTH 050 - Orthopedic Technician Health AssessmentM3.0
ORTH 050 - Orthopedic Technician Health Assessment (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:ORTH 040

This course will provide the student with entry level abilities to function as an Orthopedic Technician. Students will receive instruction in the physical examination of the extremities, spine and pelvis. Instruction will include joint range of motion, specific muscle group testing and measuring the loco-motor system.

Total Semester Units:3.0 
4th Semester
ORTH 060 - Orthopedic Technician ModalitiesM4.0
ORTH 060 - Orthopedic Technician Modalities (4.0 units)

Prerequisite:ORTH 050

This course will provide the student with entry level abilities to function as an Orthopedic Technician in the private practice, hospital and managed care facilities. Students will receive instruction in back office skills focusing on casting, splinting, application of soft goods, wound care management, client communication and surgical assisting in major and minor orthopedic procedures. The student will learn operating room etiquette, gowning, gloving, sterile back table set up for categories 1, 2 and 3 orthopedic procedures. Instruction will include seminars, demonstrations and physical examinations, hands on casting and splinting applications, surgical gowning and gloving and assisting in major orthopedic procedures.

Total Semester Units:4.0 
Summer 2
ORTH 070 - Orthopedic Technician PracticumM4.0
ORTH 070 - Orthopedic Technician Practicum (4.0 units)

Prerequisite:ORTH 060

This course will provide the student with entry level abilities to function as an Orthopedic Technician. Students will participate in clinical and hospital rotations consisting of instruction in back office skills to include casting, splinting, application of soft goods, wound care management, client communication and sterile technique. Operating room etiquette, gowning, gloving, sterile back table set up for category 3 major procedures.

Total Semester Units:4.0 
Total Units for Orthopedic Technician Program COA program 19.0 
Notes:
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
Legend:
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
Advising Sheet:
Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet.

Program Learning Outcomes

About RHC

Rio Hondo College, serving the communities of El Monte, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, South El Monte, and Whittier for over 50 years.

Contact

Rio Hondo College
3600 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601

Phone: (562) 692-0921
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