The Orthopedic Technologist Program provides students with in-depth knowledge and skills necessary for immobilization, traction, casting, splinting, and assisting physicians with orthopedic care. Completion of this program will qualify you for employment as an Orthopedic Technologist and to sit for the Certification exam by the National Board of Certified Orthopaedic Technologists (NBCOT).

Key Dates

Fall 2024

June 3 – June 21, 2025

Prepare NOW

  1. Apply to Río Hondo College
  2. Obtain a Río Hondo College ID number. (this may take up to two weeks)
  3. See a Counselor
  4. It is recommended that students be able to read and comprehend textbooks written at the college level and be able to satisfactorily write a basic paragraph. See our catalog for more information.
  5. Complete Biology 125 (Human Anatomy) with a grade of C or better
  6. Complete Program Application: Application Period, June 1- June 15, 2024 for Fall 2024 start. Prerequisites and application must be complete at time of submission to be considered.

Please submit your completed application via the on-line application.

Application and Selection Process

Length of Program

  • Three Semesters: August – August (1 Calendar Year)
  • 20 Units including prerequisites

Lecture/Lab/Clinical

  • Fall semester: 2 Evenings a week
  • Spring semester: 1-2 Evening a week and Saturday labs
  • Summer: Internship at assigned clinical facility, scheduled labs on campus.

Prerequisite

  • Human Anatomy (Bio 125)
  • Meet the RHC Reading and English Proficiencies

Cost

  • $46.00/Unit + Books/Supplies
  • Student  Casting Supply Kit

Orthopedic Technology COA Estimated Program Costs (Starting Fall 2022)

CourseUnitsTuition
($46/unit)
BooksSuppliesEstimated Total
Biology 125(Anatomy)4$184.00Apx $150.00
Ortho 0404$184.00Apx $215.00Health/Safety requirements
Apx $200
Ortho 0503$138.00Apx $170.00
Ortho 0604$184.00Apx $250.00Apx $140.00
Ortho 0704$184.00Apx $0.00Apx $80.00
Student fees per
semester $36.00
(Includes parking: $3/day)
$144.00
Supplies for all courses
Estimated totals19$874.00$1,073.00$420.00$2,367.00

Salary Range

  • Starting Salary:  $17.00 – 18.00/hour
  • Experienced: $25.00 – 30.00/hour

For more information, contact the Health Science and Nursing Division at (562) 908-3421.

Orthopedic Technician Program flyer

This program was initiated by the California Community College Chancellor’ s Office Workforce & Economic Development Division to promote the advancement of California’s health care workforce through quality education and services; pursuant to grant #15-156-004, DSN Health awarded to Río Hondo College.