Master of Health Science (Osteopathy)

Victoria University

About

This course will equip you with the knowledge and diagnostic skills to confidently begin your osteopathy career.

VU offers one of only three accredited osteopathy programs in Australia.

This masters follows on from the Bachelor of Science (Osteopathy).

Together, the courses provide eligibility for registration to practice as an osteopath.

Our highly regarded course has an extensive work-experience program, with hands-on practice at our professional clinics.

You’ll graduate skilled in formulating suitable and safe treatment programs, including soft-tissue techniques, joint mobilisation and exercise rehabilitation.

You’ll have the diagnostic skills and graduate capabilities for osteopathic practice required by primary healthcare practitioners.

Structure

To attain the Master of Health Science (Osteopathy), students will be required to complete 144 credit points in total consisting of Core Studies.

Course structure and units

Year 1

Semester 1:

  • Patient, Practitioner and Health System 7 Unit code HMH7101 Credits12
  • Evidence for Practice 7 Unit code HMH7901 Credits12
  • Advanced Clinical Theory and Skills 1 Unit code HMH7104 Credits12
  • Clinical Practice 1 Unit code HMH7105 Credits12

Semester 2:

  • Patient, Practitioner and Health System 8 Unit code HMH7201 Credits12
  • Evidence for Practice 8 Unit code HMH7902 Credits12
  • Advanced Clinical Theory and Skills 2 Unit code HMH7204 Credits12
  • Clinical Practice 2 Unit code HMH7205 Credits12

Year 2

Semester 1:

  • Patient, Practitioner and Health System 9 Unit code HMH7301 Credits12
  • Evidence for Practice 9 Unit code HMH7903 Credits12
  • Advanced Clinical Theory and Skills 3 Unit code HMH7304 Credits12
  • Clinical Practice 3 Unit code HMH7305 Credits12

Entry requirements

Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee you entry into this course. Some courses receive more applications than the number of places available. In this situation we will also assess your education, work and other relevant experience.

If you do not meet the minimum requirements you may be eligible for one of our special admission programs. We also encourage you to explore our study pathways to help you reach your goal.

Find out more about how to apply for our courses, and our commitment to admissions transparency.

Entry requirements

Completion of an Australian Bachelor degree in Osteopathy.

Pathways from VU courses

There are many ways you can start your education journey at VU. Pathways offer an easy transition between courses at different levels, so that you can start with a certificate and progress right through to postgraduate study.

Find out more about pathways and credits.

Credit for skills and past study

If you have completed study with another university or institution and believe you are eligible to receive credit for skills and past study, you can apply for advanced standing.

Applications for advanced standing can be made after a discussion with your course coordinator or academic adviser.

Additional information

First Aid: Before enrolling in this degree students must have successfully completed a Level 2 First Aid Certificate update. Working with Children (WWC): Before enrolling in this degree students must have a current working with children check. Applicants may also be required to attend a selection interview during which their suitability for entry into the course will be further assessed.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

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  1. Justify their philosophical position as an osteopath within the profession and broader Australian healthcare system;  
  2. Critically appraise and apply scholarly literature related to osteopathic philosophy and practice, as well as the broader healthcare field/area;  
  3. Design a patient-specific and evidence informed management plan based on the interpretation of physical, neurological, orthopaedic and osteopathic examination findings and clinical experience;  
  4. Resolve patient concerns as a flexible, reflective and consultative practitioner;  
  5. Implement osteopathic manual techniques to specialised patient populations (E.G. elderly, adolescents, athletes) as well as patient groups with specific cultural and religious needs;  
  6. Engage patients and the community by promoting health through effective communication, education and appropriate management based on evidence from osteopathic and public health principles;  
  7. Evaluate patient progress using standardised outcome measures, and modify treatment accordingly considering current available evidence and when indicated, explore new treatment approaches;  
  8. Design a research project relevant to their own professional practice, drawing on current evidence and study design protocols;  
  9. Critically reflect on theoretical concepts, practical activities and personal and clinical experiences to inform practice and embrace lifelong learning as an osteopath.  

Institution