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 under the supervision of an experienced practitioner at Southern Cross University’s state-of-the-art Health Clinic. Graduates will be eligible to register as practitioners of osteopathic medicine.

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

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.

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.  

Professional Placement

The Master of Osteopathic Medicine includes substantial 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 Recognition

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.