Master of Osteopathy

Please note: This programme is now closed for new applications.

This programme is only available to students who have successfully completed the Bachelor of Applied Science (Human Biology), or have successfully completed a degree in a closely related field such as physiotherapy. If you'd like more information, please contact us.

Gain the skills to become a safe and competent osteopathic practitioner who can provide patient management and care within a multi-cultural environment.

Improve your understanding of osteopathic treatment techniques, and learn to embrace and distinguish between a variety of healthcare paradigms. Further your ability to engage in critical reflective practice, scholarly debate, and research, and learn to critically assess your own performance.

You'll also find out how to locate and integrate healthcare information for the benefit of the patient.

Highlights

• Emphasis on clinical practice, critical thinking, and research.
• This programme is accredited by the Osteopathic Council of New Zealand.
• Work with real patients each week in Unitec's on-campus Osteopathic Clinic, under the supervision of professional osteopaths.
• Highly qualified lecturers who are experts in their field, with many also engaged in private practice. Staff have active relationships with diverse health services, which enables the programme to reflect many of the complexities of real life.
• Visiting industry experts and guest lecturers will give you a real feel for the career opportunities available.
• Positive relationships with professional bodies in New Zealand and Australia, and close links with osteopathic schools in Australia and Britain.
• Students undertake a research thesis in an area of interest, which involves one-to-one research supervision with experienced research supervisors.
• Helps you develop a commitment to lifelong learning and personal development.

What Next?

Once you've successfully completed the Master of Osteopathy, you will be eligible to apply for registration with the Osteopathic Council of New Zealand.

Academic requirements

You will need to provide the following, at different points of your application process.

1. Successful completion of the Bachelor of Applied Science (Human Biology) with a B grade average in your final year, or an Osteopathic Council of New Zealand (OCNZ) recognised equivalent;
2. Complete a self-declaration of criminal convictions and medical conditions form;
3. Demonstrate clinical and professional aptitude;
4. Consent to a Safety Check which meets the requirements of the Children's Act 2014 including:
   • Provide two forms of ID and evidence of any name changes;
   • Consent to a police vet check;
   • Provide the names of two referees who Unitec or your placement provider can contact;
   • If required, participate in an interview;
   • If required, provide a chronological summary of your work history for the past 5 years and the name of any professional organisations, licensing authorities and registration authorities that you have been or are a current member.

English requirements

If English is not your first language and you haven't completed the Bachelor of Applied Science (Human Biology) or an OCNZ recognised equivalent, you will need to have an IELTS band score of no less than 7.0 in each band test.

If you don't meet the English criteria above, we have a range of English Language programmes available, depending on your current level of ability.

If you don't meet these requirements, you may still apply under special or discretionary entrance.