Bachelor of Clinical Sciences

Only the following majors will be available in 2015:

Human Nutrition encompasses the study of food and nutrition in the context of human health, disease processes and in society.

Human Structure and Function extends knowledge through the study of advanced levels of anatomy and physiology, particularly the structure and function of the muscular and nervous systems.

Osteopathic Studies (only available as a double major with Human Structure and Function and taught at Lismore only) introduces students to the philosophical and biological underpinnings of the osteopathic concept of health. The major develops students’ foundational skills in diagnosis and technique that are utilised in osteopathic clinical practice.

Pedorthic Studies (only available as a double major with Foot Care and taught at the Gold Coast only) is a new allied health profession about keeping people mobile and getting the best performance from their feet, footwear or orthoses. In this major, students learn about health problems associated with feet, as well as footwear design and production.

Foot Care (taught at the Gold Coast only) introduces students to the requirements for foot care as the key to living independently and being mobile.

The course can also be completed without a major, providing the option to pursue a general study program from a wide range of elective units.

Please note:
Students interested in the Human Nutrition, Human Structure and Function, and Osteopathic Studies majors are advised to apply to study this course at Lismore, to commence in Session 1. Students interested in the Pedorthic Studies and Foot Care majors are advised to apply to study this course at Gold Coast, to commence in Session 1. Students interested in the generic pathway can apply to study at either Lismore or Gold Coast, to commence in Session 1 or 2.

Students who choose the osteopathic or pedorthic areas of study will have the opportunity to undertake a supervised professional placement. Professional placements provide students with experience in the practice of safe and effective manual therapy and the application of a wide range of treatments and management plans. Students have opportunities to work with a diverse range of patients in areas including rehabilitation, health promotion and illness prevention. Visit scu.edu.au/healthplacements

For students interested in pursuing a career in osteopathy, five years of education and training is required (three-year Bachelor of Clinical Sciences majoring in Osteopathic Studies and Human Structure and Function; and a two-year Master of Osteopathic Medicine offered by Southern Cross University). In Australia, entry level training in osteopathic medicine is accredited by the Osteopathy Board of Australia and this course pathway was granted full accreditation in 2012. Registration in Australia gives mobility across all states and territories and New Zealand.

The Human Nutrition major offers students the underpinning knowledge to work as nutritionists in non-clinical roles as well as to further their studies in postgraduate nutrition/dietetics. Graduates of this major may be eligible to apply as an Associate Nutritionist with the Nutrition Society of Australia. This course may also meet the requirements for entry to postgraduate study in nutrition and dietetics – interested students should seek further information from their chosen institution.

Students who wish to become pedorthists must complete the Pedorthic Studies and Foot Care double major. A pedorthist is a health care professional who specialises in the improvement of human movement, in particular gait and better foot function. A pedorthist conducts a comprehensive assessment which may lead to them manufacturing corrective footwear, orthoses or other supportive devices to address conditions which affect the feet and human mobility. The University is undertaking accreditation through the Australian Pedorthic Medical Grade Footwear Association. Once accredited, the degree will enable graduates to become members of the Association, to become certified pedorthists, and to practise as professional pedorthists in Australia.