Program Overview

Master of Osteopathic Medicine

The Master of Osteopathic Medicine is designed to develop a critical evaluation of the theory and practice of osteopathy and to produce primary care health practitioners who are able to solve complex problems and think rigorously and independently.

Overview

Osteopathy is a holistic system of diagnosis and manual therapy used to treat musculoskeletal and other functional disorders of the body. In Australia, osteopaths are registered primary care practitioners. The degree is built on a contemporary professional model that integrates the principles of evidence-based practice with a holistic paradigm of patient-centred health care.

Learning Outcomes and Graduate Attributes

Graduates of the Master of Osteopathic Medicine will demonstrate:

• Intellectual rigour: advanced and integrated understanding of a complex body of knowledge in osteopathy
• Creativity: innovative and creative responses to health problems and challenges within area of research and/or professional practice
• Ethical practice: understanding of health practice informed by ethical and legal principles
• Knowledge of a discipline: technical research skills to justify and interpret theoretical propositions, methodologies, conclusions, and professional decisions
• Lifelong learning: mastery of theoretical knowledge and extended understanding of recent developments in osteopathy
• Communication and social skills: person-oriented care and communication, professional relationships and behaviour with healthcare professionals
• Cultural competence: understanding of healthcare provision informed by cultural awareness and cultural competence

Placements, Work Experience, and Study Hours

The Master of Osteopathic Medicine includes substantial supervised clinical practicums at the SCU Health Clinic and in external health clinics and services. External placements provide opportunities to experience a range of community practices and to start building professional networks.

Specialisations, Majors, and Minors

Students undertake studies in osteopathic medicine, including advanced diagnosis and management of complex problems, complete clinical practice under supervision, and engage in a research project.

Availability

The Master of Osteopathic Medicine is available at the Lismore campus.

Career Outcomes

The Master of Osteopathic Medicine is accredited by the Osteopathy Board of Australia. Graduates may apply to become a registered osteopath and are eligible for professional membership with Osteopathy Australia.

Requirements

Applicants for admission to candidature shall:

1. Have completed the Bachelor of Clinical Science, majoring in Osteopathic Studies, Human Structure and Function at Southern Cross University, or an equivalent award from another institution.
2. Have demonstrated in an interview, commitment to and an understanding of the profession.

Course Requirements

To be eligible for the award of Master of Osteopathic Medicine, a candidate shall successfully complete the equivalent of sixteen (16) units (192 credit points) comprising all units listed in the Schedule of Units.

Course Structure

The course progression is in the recommended order that students should complete their course. The Schedule of Units includes:

• Year 1, Session 1: Osteopathic Medicine I, Osteopathic Clinical Practice and Research I, Osteopathic Studies VII
• Year 1, Session 2: Osteopathic Medicine II, Osteopathic Clinical Practice and Research II, Osteopathic Studies VIII
• Year 2, Session 1: Osteopathic Medicine III, Osteopathic Clinical Practice and Research III, Osteopathic Studies IX
• Year 2, Session 2: Osteopathic Medicine IV, Osteopathic Clinical Practice and Research IV, Osteopathic Studies X

Note

Double-weighted units are indicated in the Schedule of Units.