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Master of Osteopathic Medicine

Masters by Coursework

Course snapshot

Domestic snapshot

  • Course abbreviation

    MOstMed

  • Course code

    1207234

  • Credit points

    192

  • Equivalent units

    16

  • Indicative Fee

    Commonwealth supported

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 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. 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.

The Master of Osteopathic Medicine is the second stage of a professional-entry-level program that aims to produce graduates who are eligible to register as practitioners of osteopathic medicine. The first stage is the Southern Cross University Bachelor of Clinical Sciences (with the double major Osteopathic Studies/Human Structure and Function), or the Bachelor of Clinical Sciences (Osteopathic Studies) or an equivalent award from another institution.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Clinical Sciences (Osteopathic Studies) who commence the course from 2017 onwards, will receive four units of advanced standing into the Master of Osteopathic Medicine. For those entering the Bachelor of Clinical Sciences from 2017 onwards, the full-time duration for both courses (undergraduate and Master) is four years.

Graduate AttributeCourse Learning Outcome
Intellectual rigour

Demonstrate advanced and integrated understanding of a complex body of knowledge in osteopathy

Investigate, analyse and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts and theories and generate and evaluate complex ideas and concepts in osteopathic practice

Creativity

Develop innovative and creative responses to health problems and challenges within area of research and/or professional practice

Develop innovative and creative responses to health problems and challenges within osteopathic practice

Ethical practice

Develop and understanding of health practice informed by ethical and legal principles

Apply knowledge and skills with high level personal autonomy and accountability to fulfil primary health care responsibilities

Apply osteopathic knowledge and skills with creativity and initiative in professional practice in a way that reflects osteopathic philosophy and scope of practice

Knowledge of a discipline

Communicate and demonstrate technical research skills to justify and interpret theoretical propositions, methodologies, conclusions and professional decisions to specialist and non-specialist audiences

Demonstrate knowledge of research principles an methods applicable to osteopathy and its professional practice

Lifelong learning

Demonstrate mastery of theoretical knowledge, an extended understanding of recent developments in osteopathy and its professional practice, and reflect critically on personal and professional osteopathic practice

Communication and social skills

Demonstrate person-oriented care and communication

Demonstrate professional relationships and behaviour with health care professionals from all disciplines

Cultural competence

Apply an understanding of health care provision that is informed by cultural awareness and cultural competence, an international perspective and respect for the rights of all persons

Demonstrate an understanding of the physical, social, political, ecological and cultural influences on health and disease that impact health

The Master of Osteopathic Medicine includes substantial supervised clinical practicums at the SCU Health Clinic (Gold Coast or Lismore campuses) and in external health clinics and services. External placements provide opportunities to experience a range of community practices and to start to build professional networks that help establish future careers.

Professional experience placements require students to fulfil certain pre-requisites prior to attending any placements. Before applying for this course, it is important that you understand what these requirements are, as they include immunisation compliance.

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

Location Teaching period UAC code QTAC code
Lismore Session 1 N/A N/A

Career Outcomes

The Master of Osteopathic Medicine is accredited by the Osteopathy Board of Australia. Graduates may apply to become a registered osteopath.

Graduates of the course are eligible for professional membership with Osteopathy Australia (OA).

Osteopathic services are recognised under all state government statutory workers compensation schemes and motor vehicle accident compensation schemes; under Medicare's Chronic Disease Management Plan items; Departments of Veterans Affairs rebates and most private health insurance schemes.

Requirements

We encourage you to apply for the courses you most want to study. If you are not eligible to enter your chosen course right now, our team will work with you to find the best pathway option.

Before applying, make sure you double check all entry requirements, gather required documentation and review the University’s Rules Relating to Awards, noting any specifics listed below.

Entry 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
    shall have completed an award at another institution deemed by the School Board to be equivalent to the above; and
  2. have demonstrated in an interview, commitment to and an understanding of the profession.

Course requirements

  1. 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:
    1. all units listed in the Schedule of Units

Course structure

Your course progression is in the recommended order you should complete your course in. It is important that you follow this to ensure you meet the course requirements. For further assistance see How to Enrol in Units using My Enrolment.

Students should use course progression information to select units specific to their course and enrol in these units using My Enrolment.

Note 1:

Double weighted unit

Unit Code Unit Title Level of learning Notes
OST03321 Osteopathic Medicine I Introductory
OST03322 Osteopathic Clinical Practice and Research I Introductory
OST03323 Osteopathic Studies VII Advanced
OST03324 Osteopathic Medicine II Introductory
OST03325 Osteopathic Clinical Practice and Research II Introductory
OST03326 Osteopathic Studies VIII Introductory
OST03327 Osteopathic Medicine III Advanced
OST03328 Osteopathic Clinical Practice and Research III Advanced
OST03329 Osteopathic Studies IX Advanced
OST03330 Osteopathic Medicine IV Advanced
OST03331 Osteopathic Clinical Practice and Research IV Advanced
OST03332 Osteopathic Studies X Advanced