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Course snapshot
Domestic snapshot
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Start Date
March
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Duration
1.5 years full-time; 3 years part-time
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Location
Gold Coast, Lismore
Undergraduate education in Osteopathy is required prior to admission; i.e. Southern Cross University Bachelor of Clinical Sciences (Osteopathic Studies), or an equivalent award from another institution. -
Placement
Yes Learn more
-
ATAR
Not applicable
-
Inherent Requirements
Yes Learn more
-
Language Requirements
IELTS Overall Score 7.0
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Entry Requirements
-
Course abbreviation
MOstMed
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Course code
1207235
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Credit points
144
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Equivalent units
12
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Scholarships
-
Indicative fee
Please note, some locations may not have all intake periods available. See the full availability details for further information.
International snapshot
-
Start Date
March
-
Duration
1.5 years full-time
-
Location
Gold Coast, Lismore
Undergraduate education in Osteopathy is required prior to admission, enrolment in the Bachelor of Clinical Sciences (Osteopathic Studies), or an equivalent award from another Australian institution provides a direct entry pathway. -
Placement
Yes Learn more
-
ATAR
Not applicable
-
Inherent Requirements
Yes Learn more
-
Language Requirements
IELTS Overall Score 7.0
-
Entry Requirements
-
Course abbreviation
MOstMed
-
Course code
1207235
-
Credit points
144
-
Equivalent units
12
-
Scholarships
-
Indicative fee
-
CRICOS
Please note, some locations may not have all intake periods available. See the full availability details for further information.
Overview
There is a growing demand for osteopaths as more people seek the kind of holistic and preventative approaches that are integral to this system of diagnosis and manual therapy, used to treat musculoskeletal and other functional disorders of the body.
The Master of Osteopathic Medicine is designed to develop a critical evaluation of the theory and practice of osteopathy, as well as to produce primary care health practitioners who are able to meet complex challenges and think rigorously and independently.
As a student, you will undertake substantial clinical practice of 610 hours under the supervision of an experienced practitioner at Southern Cross University’s state-of-the-art Health Clinic or in other settings. Graduates will be eligible to register as practitioners of osteopathic medicine.
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“I really enjoyed transitioning from the academic aspects in class to the hands-on clinical practice both on placements in the community and at Southern Cross University Health Clinic on campus.”
The Southern Cross Model is a game-changer in higher education study.
Our students now engage in shorter, six-week unit structures designed around immersive and interactive learning experiences. The shorter unit structure gives students a greater sense of momentum as they achieve milestones quickly, resulting in increased student success rates, and course and teacher satisfaction. Lectures are a thing of the past - students will be engaged in active, interactive and discussion-based learning.
On-campus students experience a variety of teaching approaches including lectures, tutorials, online activities and video-linked or podcast virtual classes.
Our online study option is highly interactive and may include a combination of podcast or video-linked lectures, electronic study materials, workshops, online discussion forums and virtual classes.
The method of teaching and assessment may vary from unit to unit.
Course Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a course. These outcomes are aligned with the graduate attributes (GA).
| Course Learning Outcome |
|---|
GA1: Intellectual rigour Demonstrate advanced and integrated understanding of a complex body of knowledge in osteopathy consistent with global, national and regional health priorities Develop advanced clinical reasoning and clinical reflection skills to integrate complex information and to contribute to continuous enhancement of professional practice |
GA2: Creativity Demonstrate translation of research into practice drawing upon innovative and creative responses between knowledge and research generation |
GA3: Ethical practice Demonstrate autonomy, accountability and an understanding of the legal, professional, ethical standards, codes and guidelines of osteopathic practice and health care in Australia |
GA4: Knowledge of a discipline Apply knowledge and skills appropriately in professional practice reflecting osteopathic scope of practice and the wise use of healthcare resources Demonstrate person-oriented care and communication, across the lifespan within the context of osteopathic practice |
GA5: Lifelong learning Demonstrate knowledge of research principles and methods applicable to osteopathy and its professional practice |
GA6: Communication and social skills Communicate concisely and appropriately in an academic and professional context to develop inter-professional and intra-professional relationships within a diverse healthcare community |
GA7: Cultural competence Apply and integrate an understanding of social and cultural diversity, cultural safety and respect for the identity and dignity of all persons Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the biopsychosocial influences on health and disease within the applied scope of practice of osteopathy in a safe, respectful, specific and effective manner |
The Master of Osteopathic Medicine includes 610 hours of supervised clinical practicums at the Southern Cross University 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 |
|---|---|
| Gold Coast | Term 1 |
| Lismore | Term 1 |
| Location | Teaching period | Annual Fees | CRICOS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gold Coast | Term 1 | $25,000 ($3,125 per unit) | 098206J |
| Lismore | Term 1 | $25,000 ($3,125 per unit) | 098206J |
Tuition fees are in Australian dollars, and are subject to change, including annual increases over the duration of a course. Annual tuition fee is based on completing 8 units per year. In addition students are required to pay OSHC for the duration of their visa in advance. Non-tuition fee covers textbooks, stationery and excursions. | |||
Career Outcomes
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 Southern Cross University’s Bachelor of Clinical Sciences (Osteopathic Studies), or an equivalent award from another institution.
Southern Cross University is seeking to increase the number of graduate osteopaths in order to meet community demand. Osteopathy Australia estimates a national shortage of osteopaths that will remain in effect for the foreseeable future.
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.
As an osteopathy student it is important to be aware of the registration standards required by the Osteopathy Board of Australia (OBA). See the details on the OBA website.
Students enrolled in the Master of Osteopathic Medicine will be registered by Southern Cross University with the Osteopathy Board of Australia as an enrolled student and will remain registered for the duration of study. Please see the AHPRA website for more details.
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 shall have:
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completed the Bachelor of Clinical Sciences (Osteopathic Studies) at Southern Cross University, or
completed an award at another institution deemed by the Course Coordinator to be equivalent to the above; and -
achieved:
- the IELTS (academic module) minimum overall score of 7 and a minimum score of 7 in each of the four components: or
- the PTE Academic with a minimum overall score of 65 and a minimum score of 65 in each of the four communicative skills; or
- the TOEFL iBT with a minimum total score of 94 and the following minimum score in each section of the test: 24 listening, 24 reading, 27 writing, and 23 speaking.
Please note, Rule 2 Schedule B test scores equivalencies do not apply to this course.
Applicants with a completed award from another institution and applicants with an award completed more than twelve months previously will be required to demonstrate a commitment to and an understanding of the profession in an interview.
Language requirements
English language requirements apply to International applicants and other applicants whose previous study was undertaken in a language other than English. The minimum English language requirements for such applicants for entry to this course are as follows
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Overall Score | 7.0 |
| Reading | 7.0 |
| Writing | 7.0 |
| Listening | 7.0 |
| Speaking | 7.0 |
Course requirements
To be eligible to receive the Master of Osteopathic Medicine, students must complete the equivalent of 12 units (144 credit points), comprising all core units.
Professional Experience Learning
This course includes professional experience learning. Pre-requisites to meet national and state-based regulatory requirements, as detailed on Faculty of Health Professional Experience page must be met prior to attending professional experience placement. All professional experience learning hours must be completed and professional behaviour and conduct must be demonstrated.
Progression
Students are not permitted to have an extended period of more than 12 months between study of any two (2) units with professional experience learning.
Students are not permitted to have an extended period of more than 12 months between study of a theory unit that relates specifically to a particular unit with professional experience learning.
Students who have an interrupted study sequence of more than 12 months will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and may be required to undertake a specified supported professional experience placement to ensure professional experience currency prior to continuation of the course.
Inherent Requirements
Inherent Requirements apply to this course as defined on the Student Equity and Inclusion website. Students who have a disability or health condition which may impact on their ability to meet these requirements are encouraged to visit the Student Equity and Inclusion website for further information and contact details.
Other things to consider
Credit for Prior Learning, also referred to as ‘Advanced Standing’ or Recognition for Prior Learning (RPL), is the process of looking at your prior study and/or experience to assess if you can be awarded academic credit or gain entry to a course on the basis of your existing knowledge and skills.
Course structure
Why Health at SCU
One of the best clinical lab facilities in Australia
Health Clinics on-campus provide safe and supervised environments for practicums
5-star health ratings
We are 5-star rated in psychology, nursing and health services and support
(GUG 2023)Graduates in very high demand
Health graduates in very high demand as Health Care and Social Assistance is Australia's largest and fastest growing industry
Fees and Scholarships
Domestic students
You are a domestic student if you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident, New Zealand citizen, or Australian humanitarian visa holder. Your course will either be a Commonwealth Supported Place or a full fee-paying place. This is noted in the course snapshot.
Commonwealth Supported Places:
In a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), the Government pays some of your fees and you pay the rest as the Student Contribution Amount (SCA).
SCA is calculated per unit, not per course. Eligible students can defer the SCA through a HECS-HELP loan.
Full Fee-Paying Places:
A full fee-paying place is where you pay the full (unsubsidised) tuition fee for your course. Eligible students can defer the payment of their tuition fees through the FEE-HELP scheme (including employer-reserved places for The Hotel School courses).
Also known as SSAF, the Student Services and Amenities Fee is a compulsory fee for most students used to provide important services and amenities to students both on and off campus. It’s charged per unit, based on the unit’s credit point value. Eligible domestic students have the option of deferring this fee through the SA-HELP loan scheme. More about SSAF
Depending on your course, your costs could also include computer equipment and software, books, stationery, field trips, uniforms or other course-specific expenses such as art materials, musical equipment or travel for practicums, internships, vaccinations or industry experience.
Scholarships vary in amount, from a few hundred to several thousand dollars each year. Eligibility isn't limited to top-performing students or those facing financial challenges; there are opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds and with different accomplishments. This ensures that education remains accessible to all, changing lives and helping individuals achieve their goals for a brighter future.
Fees and Scholarships
International Students
If you're an international student, you can find the annual course cost in Australian dollars (AUD$) on our International Courses and Fees page or on the web page for your course under fees.
Also known as SSAF, the Student Services and Amenities Fee is a compulsory fee for most students used to provide important services and amenities to students both on and off campus. It’s charged per unit, based on the unit’s credit point value. Eligible domestic students have the option of deferring this fee through the SA-HELP loan scheme. More about SSAF
Depending on your course, your costs could also include computer equipment and software, books, stationery, field trips, uniforms or other course-specific expenses such as art materials, musical equipment or travel for practicums, internships, vaccinations or industry experience.
Southern Cross University offers a range of scholarships designed to support you while you study, available for a variety of backgrounds and achievements. Scholarships range from a few hundred dollars a year to several thousand dollars a year. Southern Cross has also introduced Access25, a new initiative for 2025 to deliver a quality education combined with a straightforward tuition model, ensuring every international student has equal access.
Apply now
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Click the Apply button to start your application in our Application Portal.
Dates for the diary
Our shorter, more focused six-week unit structure gives students a greater sense of momentum and motivation as they achieve milestones quickly. Application dates per Term are shown on each course page however refer to our key dates and teaching calendar for detail on when enrolment opens, studies commence and when grades are published. There are also Dual Term and Tri Term calendars for those who have specific subjects.
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