BSc (Hons) Osteopathic Theory (Top-up)

Enhance your clinical reasoning and explore the osteopathic healthcare system with this unique and progressive top-up degree delivered in association with ICOM (Irish College of Osteopathic Medicine).

Build advanced clinical reasoning and develop musculoskeletal skills

Develop a greater understanding of how the human body functions and the treatment techniques that can help it.

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Progress onto this course using a relevant Higher National Diploma, Diploma of Higher Education, Foundation Degree, or other Level 5 Qualification

UCAS code TBC

UCAS institution code P63

Duration One year

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Course Summary

This course is the final year of the BSc Osteopathy degree delivered in partnership with ICOM, the Irish College of Osteopathic Medicine. It can also be studied if you have the necessary Level 5 qualification needed, however it will not give you the necessary qualifications to practice an Osteopath in the UK, which has different requirements to the Republic of Ireland. If you're interested in becoming a licensed Osteopathic practitioner in the UK, please see our M.Ost Undergraduate Master's.

On this course, critical evaluation of the theory of Osteopathy and underpinning healthcare systems will upskill you to a point where you can think and work independently, or as part of a multidisciplinary team. The degree is built on our expertise of a multidisciplinary professional model that integrates the principles of evidence-Informed practice with a holistic paradigm of patient-centred health care. Detailed study of structure and function in health and disease associated osteopathic principals, theories and techniques are read in detail on this programme.

Why choose this course?

Remote learning

Block learning

Highly skilled Osteopathic staff

Modules for this course

1st Year

OSTH01 - Pathology

Develop an understanding of the pathophysiology and biochemistry of various common diseases. Building upon knowledge and skills developed during the study of human physiology. Develop knowledge of body systems to cover changes that occur during the pathogenesis of common disorders/diseases. Understanding the control and balance of body systems. Investigate the study and analysis of healthy vs disease state. Developing an understanding of prevention and treatment of disease. A concept-driven module which provides a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms by which pharmaceuticals, toxicants and toxins act in t 100% Written Exam ( open Book) A Compulsory Condonable

OSTH02 - Osteopathic Evaluation and Therapeutics

Diagnosis and management of a range of conditions that could be encountered in osteopathic practice, including; Orthopaedics and rheumatology conditions. Neurology. Endocrine disease. Obstetrics and gynaecology. Gerontology. Dermatology. Biopsychosocial model of health and illness. 100% Written Exam (open Book) A Compulsory Condonable

OSTH03 - Managing clinical uncertainty

Refinement of the skills and critical appraisal of safety issues associated with the use of various osteopathic treatment techniques. Clinical and diagnostic reasoning strategies. Critical reflection on clinical practice and development of action plans for further individualised learning. Team based approaches to learning and development. Critical evaluation of approaches to osteopathic practice through peer reflection and feedback. Critical review and consolidation of the principles of osteopathic evaluation and techniques • Complex cases and the management of clinical uncertainty. Critical review of the effectiveness of techniques, rehabilitative exercises or activities. 100% Exam A Compulsory Condonable

OSTHO4 - Clinical Portfolio

Development and execution of an agreed clinical portfolio in the relevant subject area. • Sourcing and synthesis of relevant academic literature linking to project. • Application of relevant theoretical concept. • Independent interpretation and critical analysis. • Presentation of the work using appropriate academic discourse. • Individual formative feedback and tutorials as agreed with the supervisor. 100% course work B Compulsory Non-Condonable

OSTH05 - Private practice business module

The study of small businesses, their environment, operating principles and management Implications; entrepreneurs and entrepreneurialism. Business plans - research, design and delivery. The role of entrepreneurship and small businesses in the economy. Characteristics and behaviours of entrepreneurs. Creativity & Innovation in business. Business start-up - franchising, outsourcing, networking. Funding of entrepreneurial ventures. Developing business plans. 100% course work B Compulsory Condonable

This course is perfect if you're curious about...

The human body

Treatment and management of conditions

Differential diagnosis

Osteopathic concepts and modals

What might I become?

On completion of the BSc in Osteopathy at the University of St Mark & St John, you can go on to work in the private health care sector. There is growing demand for manual therapists following an increasing public desire for modern, patient-centred care. You might also become self-employed, running your own business.

There are also opportunities for further study. While the NHS is traditionally the biggest employer for MSK practitioners and the majority of these are physiotherapists, there are an increasing variety of opportunities within the NHS for other therapists. This strengthens your career opportunities in other workplace settings such as hospitals, private practice, education, research and industry.

How you’ll be taught and assessed?

How will you be taught?

This is a remotely taught course with 2 block weeks delivered in Cork Ireland.

How will you be assessed?

Remotely assessed via open book exams and essays.

John Evans

Course leader

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John is a qualified Osteopath and is a qualified Acupuncturist, Sonographer, Nutritionist, strength and conditioning coach and advanced rehabilitation specialist. Following severe damage to axillary nerves in his shoulders John developed Actively Intelligent Rehabilitation (AIR), a complete health care system that considers the patient's nutritional needs, physical rehabilitation needs, acute and chronic pain management and strength and reconditioning needs as part of their treatment plan.

Fees and funding

Fees UK students: £9,250

Lecturers

John Evans

Lecturer

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John is a qualified Osteopath and is a qualified Acupuncturist, Sonographer, Nutritionist, strength and conditioning coach and advanced rehabilitation specialist. Out of his own experience of nerve damage, John developed a complete health care system that takes into account the patient's pain and needs spanning nutrition, physical rehabilitation, acute and chronic pain management, fitness and strength and reconditioning.