The National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE) has announced the first centralized application service for O&P program applicants.
Launching this month, the Orthotics and Prosthetics Centralized Application Service (OPCAS) is currently enrolling schools with accredited O&P programs into the service. The following institutions will utilize OPCAS for the 2012-2013 admissions cycle:
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- California State University, Domiguez Hills
- Loma Linda University, California
- St. Petersburg College, Florida
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas
- University of Washington, Seattle
According to NCOPE, OPCAS will streamline and simplify the application process for prospective students applying to multiple programs, thereby reducing both time and cost. The applicant will submit a single application through OPCAS and select his or her schools of choice. Those who apply through OPCAS submit only one set of transcripts, essays, and reference letters. The application may be completed all at once or over multiple sessions, and the application fees are payable via e-commerce transaction. Student applicants may then monitor the progress and status of their application online, via phone or e-mail support, and a mobile application is forthcoming.
“Ultimately, the service provides direct access to all participating O&P schools in one convenient, online location,” said NCOPE Executive Director Robin Seabrook. “The participating schools are excited about the benefit this will bring to future students….”