Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Osteopathy
This postgraduate study is intended for physiotherapists, chiropractors, and physicians interested in building an osteopathy-based healthcare practice. Graduates of the program gain the academic credentials and practical skills required to qualify as a manual osteopath internationally and use the professional designation M.Sc.O (Master of Science in Osteopathy).
Graduates of LCO’s Diploma in Osteopathic Manual Practice (DOMP) are eligible for direct admission into the M.Sc. in Osteopathy.
Program Objective
To solidify students’ understanding of osteopathic philosophy, principles, and concepts of health and disease; advance students’ knowledge of functional anatomy, biomechanics, and the pathophysiological processes that determine changes in health and function; gain proficiency in observation, palpation and diagnostic skills; record patient’s case history, taking into account the nature of their presentation; develop clinical reasoning and technical skills to deliver safe and effective osteopathic care.
Program Outcome
Graduates of the program are awarded a Master of Science in Osteopathy degree (M.Sc.O ) and receive the qualification of an Osteopath. Holders of the Master’s degree may join a professional osteopathic association in the country of their residence and practice osteopathy as autonomous health care practitioners.
Completion time – 12 months
The estimated duration of the study is one year. However, as the program is partially offered in an online format, dedicated students may complete their studies within a shorter period.
Program Structure
The M.Sc. in Osteopathy program is delivered in a blended learning format:
- Module I – Pre-clinical Studies / Online
- Module II – Thesis/ Osteopathic Research
- Module III – Hands-on Clinical Training
Materials:
Online textbooks, recorded lectures, downloadable lecture slides, video tutorials, handouts/readings.
Evaluation
Each course requires completion of online quizzes and a final exam. The passing grade is 75%.
Module I – Preclinical Studies / Online
Through nine dynamic and comprehensive online courses, students acquire the core osteopathic knowledge before taking part in the hands-on clinicals. Access to LCO’s e-learning platform www.studyosteopathyonline.com does not expire, allowing students to complete Module I at their own pace. Course instructors provide guidance and support. To view a complete course curriculum please refer to the program outline available for download on this page.
Module II – Osteopathic Research
The submission of osteopathic research relevant to a student’s occupational specialization is an essential component of the M.Sc.O program. In their graduate thesis, students generate and argue an original osteopathic thesis that sparks their professional interest. A dedicated academic advisor supports and mentors students through their research
Module III – Hands-on Clinical Training
Supervised clinical training is an intensive learning event lead by experienced osteopaths It enables students to put into practice theoretical knowledge they have acquired in online module I. Students have an opportunity to work with real-life patients presenting a broad spectrum of health conditions commonly encountered in osteopathic practice. A low student-to-teacher ratio allows for a personalized approach to each participant.
Upon graduation, students will be able to perform an osteopathic assessment, identify a somatic dysfunction, and formulate and perform an appropriate treatment using the most effective osteopathic techniques. Through individual tutoring sessions and open discussions, students are encouraged to develop treatment styles relevant to the specifics of their practice. The clinics take place in Barcelona, Spain or Toronto, Canada, in April and November annually. For more information, please refer to the program outline available for download on this page.