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Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS)
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100% Online Fully Online CoursesOn-Demand
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12 Modules 12 Months of AccessSave Money
Get 25% off Alumni DiscountOrthopedic Clinical Specialist Exam Prep Overview
Advance your career in physical therapy and strengthen your expertise in orthopedic care with UNE Online’s Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) Exam Prep Course. Designed for practicing physical therapists and recent graduates, this flexible online program provides structured guidance, expert instruction, and focused resources to support confident board exam preparation.
The OCS credential, awarded by the American Physical Therapy Association, recognizes advanced clinical skill and evidence-based proficiency in orthopedic physical therapy. Eligibility requires either 2,000 hours of orthopedic clinical practice or completion of an accredited orthopedic residency. The exam is a rigorous 200-question assessment offered annually each March, with registration closing September 30.
UNE’s OCS Prep Course removes the uncertainty from studying. Through pre-recorded lectures, case-based learning, practice exams, and live mentoring sessions, you’ll build mastery across major joint systems while developing an effective study strategy. Twelve comprehensive modules integrate clinical practice guidelines, real-world case application, and exam-style questions to reinforce learning.
Participants receive 12 months of access to materials and ongoing faculty support, offering a clear path toward certification success.
Get Started Today
How Can I Register?
Ready to take the next step? Getting started is simple, just follow the registration process to reserve your place and complete your program payment. With limited availability in each cohort, we encourage you to secure your spot early to ensure access to this experience.
Whether you’re looking to deepen your expertise or build new skills, this is your opportunity to move forward with confidence.
What is the Orthopedic Clinical Specialist Exam Prep Curriculum?
UNE Online’s Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) Exam Prep Course delivers a comprehensive, exam-aligned curriculum designed to mirror the depth, scope, and clinical rigor of the Orthopedic Clinical Specialist board certification exam. The program is organized into 12 focused modules, each structured by body region to reflect how content is tested on the OCS exam.
Learners progress through each module using a consistent, applied learning framework that blends recorded expert lectures, case-based learning, recommended readings, and interactive assessments. Throughout the course, participants strengthen clinical reasoning, reinforce evidence-based decision-making, and build confidence with exam-style questions and competency checks.
Across all 12 modules, learners will:
- Review key anatomy, biomechanics, and pathology by body region
- Apply current clinical practice guidelines to real-world orthopedic cases
- Integrate examination, diagnosis, and management strategies
- Assess mastery through competency checks and board-style questions
This structured, region-based curriculum supports both deep clinical understanding and effective exam preparation, allowing participants to study strategically while reinforcing day-to-day orthopedic practice.
Sample Module: The Shoulder
- Anatomy and Biomechanics Review
- Outcome Measures
- Differential Diagnosis
- Examination Using the STAR Shoulder Model
- Imaging and Fracture Management
- Non-operative and Operative Management
- Clinical Practice Guideline Review (Adhesive Capsulitis)
- Clinical Practice Guidelines
- STAR Shoulder Approach
- Dutton Orthopedics: Shoulder Complex
- Case Study Scenarios
- Examination and Intervention Technique Videos
- Competency Check & Exam Prep Questions (80% required to pass)
This modular design ensures learners are thoroughly prepared for the OCS exam while strengthening advanced orthopedic clinical practice.
What are the Learning Outcomes?
Earning the Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) credential demonstrates advanced clinical expertise and a strong commitment to excellence in orthopedic physical therapy. With focused, exam-aligned preparation, physical therapists can deepen clinical reasoning, strengthen evidence-based decision-making, and approach board certification with confidence.
UNE Online’s Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) Exam Prep Course provides a structured, exam-focused pathway designed to support both practicing clinicians and recent graduates. The course strengthens orthopedic knowledge across major joint systems while reinforcing effective study habits and test-taking strategies aligned with the OCS exam.
Outcomes and Career Alignment
With this course, you’ll be prepared to:
- Prepare confidently for the 200-question OCS board certification exam using a structured study plan
- Deepen orthopedic clinical expertise through current clinical practice guidelines
- Apply evidence-based reasoning to real-world orthopedic case scenarios
- Refine test-taking strategies through exam-style questions and competency checks
- Strengthen your professional profile with preparation for a highly respected specialty credential
- Study on your schedule with one year of flexible access to course materials
Career-aligned outcomes include advancing clinical practice, demonstrating orthopedic specialization to employers, and positioning yourself for leadership and advanced practice opportunities within orthopedic physical therapy.
What is the Tuition?
Tuition for our highly regarded Orthopedic Clinical Specialist Exam Prep program is $750. This competitive tuition covers the comprehensive curriculum, expert instruction, and invaluable information provided throughout the duration of the program.
Alumni Discount Available: Contact ceonline@une.edu to claim your code for 25% off.
*Tuition is subject to change.
Why Choose UNE?
Flexible Online Formats
Flexible online formats designed for working professionals, career changers, and lifelong learners balancing goals, schedules, and responsibilities confidently.
Applied Learning
Applied, real-world learning focused on practical skills, clear outcomes, and immediate relevance across diverse professional contexts and industries.
Faculty
Expert instructors, supportive advising, and intentional design ensure learners gain confidence, momentum, and meaningful progress through every program.
“This course blends evidence-based content and targeted exam preparation to build clinical confidence and success. It is designed for new and developing clinicians who want structured mentorship, deeper orthopedic reasoning, and a clear roadmap to earning their OCS and elevating patient care.”
Matthew Somma, PT, DPT, Board Certified Specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
This course is open to physical therapists and recent graduates (within 5 years) who are preparing to sit for the OCS exam. No formal application is required.
The OCS Prep Course is offered on-demand, so you can register and begin at any time.
Yes. You will earn 21 CEUs for eligible participants in conjunction with the course if you engage with all the content and modules.
- The estimated time commitment is 15-25 hours per module. If you engage with all the optional readings, some modules will be up to 25.
- The weekly time commitment also depends on how close the student is to the exam date, and how much support they need.
Full access includes all lectures, case-based learning, practice questions, module resources, and live mentoring sessions. You’ll have access for one full year, giving you flexibility and time to revisit content as needed.
UNE Online’s OCS Prep Course is delivered 100% online and asynchronous, meaning there are no scheduled meeting times for class. You can complete the coursework when it is convenient for you.
Live sessions will be recorded (when feasible) so that you can view them later. You’ll still have full access to all recorded lectures, module content, and practice resources.
Within each module, competency checks or exam-style question sets are built in (e.g. 10 question quizzes with a minimum score of 80% to pass). These help you track your understanding before moving forward.
You will be able to reach your instructor through the course. Courses are held in the learning management system, Brightspace, and there is easy messaging available to communicate with your instructor.
Please email ceonline@une.edu with any registration issues and our team can help to assist with your registration.
You are unable to withdraw from the course once you have registered and paid. Please connect with your instructor about the best course of action for your circumstances.
There are no refunds.
