The Northwestern University Prosthetics-Orthotics Center (NUPOC) has launched a first-of-its-kind Master of Prosthetics & Orthotics Research (MPO-R) program, marking a significant step forward in the integration of clinical care and scientific research in the field of prosthetics and orthotics (P&O). This new academic initiative is the first in the United States to formally blend advanced research education with clinical training, setting a new standard for preparing future leaders in rehabilitation science.
Offered through Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, the MPO-R program builds upon NUPOC’s well-established Master of Prosthetics & Orthotics (MPO) degree. It extends the program by two additional sessions, enabling students to complete research-intensive coursework and a thesis-based capstone project.
Students enrolled in the MPO-R program will:
- Fulfill all clinical education requirements of the MPO program
- Take additional courses in statistics, biomechanics, research methods, and scientific writing
- Develop and defend a research thesis under the guidance of a faculty committee
- Gain immersive experience in both clinical care and rehabilitation research
“This program empowers students to ask important questions, design meaningful studies, and ultimately shape the future of prosthetic and orthotic care through evidence-based practice,” said Dr. Matthew Major, Program Director of MPO-R.
Launched in 2024, the program’s first cohort of five students is now entering its second year and already contributing meaningfully to both academic and clinical spaces. One student, Elyssia Wellington, emphasized the unique value of the program:
“There’s not much out there like this. I want to be on the front end of design, development, and implementation of technologies to better serve people. This degree will open doors for me.”
Another student, Maria Gamez, shared:
“Outside of classwork, I enjoy having an avenue to further explore topics I’m passionate about and collaborate with experts in the field.”
Through this program, NUPOC continues its mission to advance rehabilitation care and mobility for people with limb loss or neuromuscular conditions. The MPO-R program underscores Northwestern’s commitment to innovation, academic excellence, and service to the disability community.
📎 Learn more about the MPO-R program and how to apply:
🔗 https://www.nupoc.northwestern.edu/education/mpor-curriculum.html
