Prepare with Confidence for the Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) Exam

Advance your expertise in orthopedic care and take the next step in your physical therapy career with UNE Online’s Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) Exam Prep Course. Designed for practicing physical therapists and recent graduates, this flexible online program provides the structure, expert guidance, and comprehensive resources you need to prepare for board certification with confidence.

Why Pursue OCS Certification

The Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) credential, awarded by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), signifies advanced clinical knowledge and evidence-based practice in orthopedic physical therapy. Earning the credential demonstrates your commitment to professional excellence and can open new opportunities for leadership, specialization, and patient impact.

How to Pass the OCS Exam

To qualify for the OCS exam, candidates must complete either 2,000 hours of clinical practice in orthopedics or an accredited orthopedic residency. The rigorous 200-question assessment is offered once annually in March, with registration closing September 30 each year. Most candidates begin focused study five months before the exam.

The key to success is proper preparation — a well-organized and disciplined study routine backed by high-quality, evidence-based resources.

UNE’s Orthopedic Clinical Specialist Exam Prep Course helps bridge the gap between clinical practice and exam readiness. Students gain access to:

• Comprehensive content covering major joint systems and integrating clinical practice guidelines.
• Self-paced, on-demand learning modules designed to fit around professional schedules. Pro Tip: Creating a structured study plan is key to success. Our flexible program allows you to create the structure that works best for you.
• Interactive case-based learning that applies real-world case applications, and exam-style questions. Pro Tip: Mock exams help prepare you for the real thing. Our program allows you to practice with mock exams modeled after the real OCS test.
• 24/7 access to course materials for flexible study anytime. Pro Tip: Take breaks to re-center and practice self-care. Our program gives you the flexibility you need to develop individualized study routines.

Additional study tips:

• Stick to your study routine
• Eliminate distractions and create an ideal study environment
• Network and seek guidance and mentorship from OCS-Certified Therapists

While this course is designed to prepare you thoroughly, passing the OCS exam depends on your own study effort, prior clinical experience, and mastery of the material. The course provides the tools, structure and support you need, but cannot guarantee results.

Access the Best Resources for OCS Test Prep with UNE Online

UNE’s OCS Prep Course takes the uncertainty out of exam preparation. Through a dynamic mix of pre-recorded lectures, case-based learning, practice exams, and live mentoring sessions, you’ll build a deep understanding of orthopedic principles and strengthen your clinical reasoning.

The program includes:

• 12 content modules, each designed to mirror the depth and variety of topics covered on the Orthopedic Clinical Specialist Exam
• Practice exams and case applications modeled after the OCS exam
• Monthly faculty office hours and guided review sessions
• Competency checks to track your progress and reinforce learning

Students receive year-long access to all course materials, allowing you to study at your own pace while maintaining your professional schedule. At $750, UNE Online offers competitive tuition for the OCS prep course. UNE alumni receive a 25% discount, reach out to ceonline@une.edu to inquire about alumni discount opportunities.

Enroll Now to Stay on Track

Whether you’re a recent graduate preparing for your first board exam or an experienced clinician pursuing advanced certification, UNE Online’s OCS Prep Course offers a clear, supportive path to exam success.

Ready to take your next professional step? Register now to gain access on January 12, 2026, and begin your journey toward OCS certification.