The Prosthetics and Orthotics Bachelor programme receives recognised international accreditation

The Prosthetics and Orthotics Bachelor programme at the School of Health and Welfare at Jönköping University (JU) has been accredited by the International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics (ISPO) at the Prosthetist/Orthotist level after an extensive review process.

Student is building a prosthetic.

The School of Health and Welfare at Jönköping University is the only institution in Sweden to offer the Prosthetics and Orthotics Bachelor programme, which also leads to a licence to practice. Since 2018, the Prosthetics and Orthotics Bachelor programme has been offered in English and accepts students from all over the world. Currently, about 100 students from around 10 countries in Europe, Africa and Asia are studying in the programme.

“The accreditation is an international recognition of the quality, scope and organisation of the programme, which we are very proud of. This is the first time that the programme has applied for ISPO accreditation," says Sara Kallin, university lecturer in Prosthetics and Orthotics and Programme Manager for the Prosthetics and Orthotics Bachelor programme.

ISPO is an international, non-governmental and multi-professional organisation that supports development and work in prosthetics and orthotics technology. ISPO’s vision is a world where all people have equal opportunity for full participation in society. ISPO is affiliated with the World Health Organization.

The message from ISPO reads "The ISPO Education Committee has approved the Prosthetics and Orthotics Bachelor programme delivered by Jönköping University, as an ISPO-accredited Prosthetist/Orthotist training programme for a period of 3 years, between January 2022 and January 2025."

The programme has achieved the Distinguished accreditation level, which is the second highest level (level 5 of a total of 6 levels).

Students will benefit from the accreditation whereas graduates of the programme can apply to ISPO for an individual ISPO recognition certificate. The certificate facilitates recruitment for work abroad.

The following are highlighted from the assessment:

  • faculty members are not only on high academic level as well as clinical experience and skill level, but seem very motivated and engaged to run and develop the program further.
  • integration of the state-of-the-art gait lab for research opportunities, biomechanical teaching, etc., is a strong integral aspect.
  • the international intake policy provides access to students beyond Sweden
  • the programme is delivered in English language which increases access internationally
  • well established network and relationship within service providers which secures quality placement opportunities
  • opportunities for clinical placements are provided even internationally
  • the programme is state funded, thus its free of charge for students (at least EU members)
  • physical premises of the programme are impressive, modern and well equipped

Questions and more information

Sara Kallin
2022-04-14