A three or five year Higher Diploma (depending on background) which will qualify you to practice as an Osteopath and to offerr Osteopathy to the general public. Available in Dublin.
Duration: 3 to 5 years Level: Diploma Cost: €4,890.00 per year
The National Training Centre exists to provide education and training in the areas of complementary medical healthcare and health related fitness which lead to industry recognised national qualifications.
The National Training Centre (NTC) comprises five schools and colleges. The National College of Exercise and Health Studies (NCEHS) provides training in the area of health related fitness. The National School of Sports Massage (NSSM) provides training in the area of orthopaedic sports massage. The College of Complementary Medical Education (CCME) provides training in the areas of neuromuscular and physical therapy. The Pilates Institute (Ireland) provides training in the area of pilates. The Irish College of Osteopathic Medicine which provides training in the area of osteopathic medicine.
NTC is the accepted authority in these areas in Ireland and we work with world authorities to bring the very latest educational experiences to our students.
Our organisation is 100% student focused and our custom built facilities recognise our commitment to enhancing student's learning experiences and outcomes.
National Training Centre,
15 - 16 Saint Joseph's Parade,
Dorset Street, Dublin 7, Republic of Ireland
Email: info@ntc.ie
Dublin - +353 1 882 7777
Cork - +353 21 430 1222
Galway - +353 91 530 888
Donegal - +353 74 912 1733
Fax All Offices - +353 1 830 8757
The objects for which the Association is established are to protect and enhance the rights and privileges of those practicing physical therapies including, but not limited to, neuromuscular therapy, physical therapy and sports massage; to promote honourable practice; to repress malpractice; to settle disputed points of practice; to decide questions of professional usage of courtesy; and to establish a register of members.
ANMPT, 16a Saint Joseph's Parade
Dorset Street, Dublin 7, Republic of Ireland
Email: info@anmpt.ie
Dublin - +353 1 830 7063
Fax All Offices - +353 1 830 8757
When getting exercise instruction, using the services of a REPS Ireland Registered Exercise Professional has many benefits.
Most importantly, REPS Ireland is the independent verification that the exercise professional is suitable to give advice to or to instruct in a gym or a group exercise/aerobics class when they hold the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training.
Like most professional registration bodies, individuals registered with REPS Ireland agree to follow the industry Code of Ethical Practice
REPS Ireland also operates a complaints system for any person that wishes to complain about a registered trainer or instructor. Only persons who are deemed as suitable by REPS Ireland are able to continue to annually re-register, giving you confidence when dealing with a REPS Ireland registered trainer or instructor.
REPS Ireland
C/O ILAM,
Allenwood Enterprise Park,
Allenwood Nth,
Naas,
Co. Kildare
Email:
register@repsireland.ie
enquiries@repsireland.ie
Tel: 045 859162
The Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine is an internationally accepted qualification which will afford the successful graduate the ability to practice as an Osteopath in Ireland and many other European countries.
This modular programme aims to deliver osteopathic education relevant for the Irish and European markets which will match the standards set in the UK where osteopathy is a regulated profession.
The programme aims to enable students to develop a competence and confidence in all aspects of professional practice, by encouraging autonomy and criticality in thinking and action.
Students will undertake clinical practice (under the supervision of qualified osteopaths experienced at teaching to degree level), and thus, we envisage, will become recognised as role models and significant health care providers within the wider community and the osteopathic profession.
With a tutoring team of highly qualified and respected osteopathic experts this programme will give participants a complete and fully rounded education.
All applicants need to have a keen interest in working in a para-medical profession, and a commitment to upholding the professional standards and expectations of osteopathy. They need to be able to offer commitment to participation on this programme which has been designed to fit in with the busy schedules of working individuals.
Standard Route (5 Years)
Enrollment is available to persons without a professional qualification as the course covers all the required elements of anatomy and physiology for practice. Ideal applicants include anyone interested in the care of patients.
Students are expected to hold the Leaving Certificate (or equivalent) with a minimum of grade B (Ordinary Level) or grade C (Higher Level) in a science subject, preferably Chemistry.
APEL Route (3 Years)
Enrollment is available to those with a professional qualification of at least diploma level in an associated area. Although Leaving Certificate with a science subject is highly desirable, each application from qualified professionals will be considered individually.
Ideal applicants would include:
Nurses
Chiropractors
Doctors
Physiotherapists
H. Dip. Neuromuscular Therapists
Physical Therapists
You can enroll online by selecting the course and payment option which best suits your requirements on the right hand side of this page. Alternatively you can contact us by telephone on 01 882 7777.
You may also download an enrollment form by clicking the 'Brochure' button above and send completed forms to: National Training Centre, 15- 16 St. Joseph's Parade, Dorset Street, Dublin 7. You may also contact us at anytime to discuss any queries you have or to arrange an appointment to visit our facilities.
All enrollments are subject to interview. Should you book your place online and subsequently not get offered a place, any fees which have been paid are fully refundable.
Collectively the Osteopaths teaching at ICOM have teaching experience at the most well renowned schools of osteopathy in the UK including:
Currently there is no stated CPD requirement for professional osteopaths practising in Ireland or across Europe (except the UK). However if you wish to become a registered Osteopath in the UK, on successful application, to the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) 30 hours per year CPD is required. For more information on registration with the GOsC go to www.osteopathy.org.uk
The cost of the Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine (H. Dip. Ost.) programme is €4,890.00 per year
You can secure a place on the programme by paying a non-refundable deposit of €1,890.00. The balance of fees can be paid using a variety of options, some of which lead to discounts.
OPTION 1
A single payment of €2,810.00 two weeks prior to the start date for each year. This leads to a discount of €190.00 per annum. The deposit for each subsequent year would be paid by weekend 18 (Standard Route) or weekend 22 (APEL Route) with the balance again payable two weeks before the start date for each year.
OPTION 2 - Standard Route
(5 Year Pathway)
60 monthly Direct Debit payments of €376.00
OPTION 2 - APEL Route
(3 Year Pathway)
36 monthly Direct Debit payments of €355.00
Medical Studies
A wide ranging study area which covers the pathology, clinical skills, clinical methods and diagnosis. It also covers detailed study of neurology orthopaedics and other medically relevant subjects.
Osteopathic Technique
A comprehensive range of techniques utilised by professional osteopaths for the treatment of wide ranging clinical presentations is studied. Specialised techniques for the treatment of children, pregnant women, the elderly or those with chronic conditions which require specialised care are also taught.
Osteopathic History, Principles and Philosophy
Students will learn about the historical background of osteopathy and its importance within the healthcare system. By understanding the philosophy and principles which underpin Osteopathy, students will be able to adapt and apply to care for patients with wide ranging presentations.
Osteopathic Clinical Practice
Students will be involved in the care and treatment of patients in a supervised clinical environment. Initially undertaking clinical observation of osteopathic treatments, and progressing through team work to finally taking responsibility for and managing their own patients. Students must show commitment to and professional responsibility for undertaking the clinical care of patients and be prepared to do so at times outside of the teaching weekends. The individual’s actual attendance will be timetabled in advance at the beginning of each academic year.
Dissertation
No research dissertation is required for the Higher Diploma, however when degree accreditation has been achieved a dissertation will be required from students wishing to obtain Masters degree level.
Do I need to hold any other qualification in order to participate on this programme ?
All applicants need to have a keen interest in working in a para-medical profession, and a commitment to upholding the professional standards and expectations of osteopathy. They need to be able to offer commitment to participation on this programme which has been designed to fit in with the busy schedules of working individuals.
Standard Route (5 Years)
Enrollment is available to persons without a professional qualification as the course covers all the required elements of anatomy and physiology for practice. Ideal applicants include anyone interested in the care of patients.
Students are expected to hold the Leaving Certificate (or equivalent) with a minimum of grade B (Ordinary Level) or grade C (Higher Level) in a science subject, preferably Chemistry.
APEL Route (3 Years)
Enrollment is available to those with a professional qualification of at least diploma level in an associated area. Although Leaving Certificate with a science subject is highly desirable, each application from qualified professionals will be considered individually.
What will I be qualified to do when I complete this course successfully ?
On successful completion you will be a qualified Osteopath and as such will be professionally competent to offer professional services in osteopathy. Currently there are no restrictions to practising as an Osteopath in Ireland.
Will I be able to get a job in a pain/sports injury clinic or in a hospital ?
Qualified Osteopaths generally work within multi-disciplinary injury clinics where therapists such as chiropractors, physical therapists, physiotherapists, Neuromuscular therapists etc. offer a variety of pain and injury solutions. This multi-disciplinary model normally consists of a great deal of cross referral whereby therapists refer patients to each other, depending on the therapists individual area of expertise, and, having determined which treatment model is likely to offer the best solution, decide collectively on the best approach. Individual Osteopaths can establish a G.P. referral scheme in conjunction with a local medical practitioner whereby the doctor will refer patients with appropriate symptoms to the Osteopath and using the skills gained through the qualification process, the Osteopath can refer their patients to the doctor when Osteopathy may not be appropriate. Graduates who hold an existing medical qualification, in nursing for example, may find that they can combine their new skills with their existing skill set within the hospital environment.
Are there many jobs available for graduates at present ?
Most Osteopaths operate in a self employed capacity either as sole traders, as part of a multi-disciplinary clinical team, or with a variety of sporting teams. There are many opportunities for qualified Osteopaths as individuals increasingly look outside of traditional medical disciplines for solutions to their health problems and as Osteopathy is a complementary discipline and 100% science based, its appeal is broad. It must be pointed out that as with all professional qualifications at all levels, graduate appeal to patients will be result driven and their success from a business viewpoint will be in proportion to the time, effort and dedication they are prepared to offer their profession. Many National Training Centre graduates have started their careers on a part-time basis and have seen this aspect of their professional life overtake their full time career to become their primary or only occupation and source of income.
How much will I earn as a qualified Osteopath ?
The recommended fee for each 45 minute treatment session is between €60.00 and €120.00. The number of sessions you decide to complete each week will be determined by your own commitment and the results you achieve. One of the best things about qualifying as an Osteopath is that you can decide how many hours a day you want to work and therefore regulate your own earning potential.
Will I need to get insurance ?
The codes of ethics of the Irish College of Osteopathic Medicine insist that all Osteopathy graduates who are actively working in the profession, hold a professional indemnity insurance policy which covers the Osteopath against legal action taken by a patient as a result of an injury received during treatment. Osteopaths who are working on private premises may also need to hold public liability insurance.
On completion of this course can I practice as an Osteopath in Ireland?
Yes. Currently there is no restriction to practising as an Osteopath in Ireland. ICOM will undertake accreditation with whichever body becomes the official regulator to ensure our students are entitled to practice in Ireland.
Is this qualification accepted internationally ?
Depending on the country, usually yes, however the exception is the UK. Practice as an osteopath in the UK is regulated by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC), any person(s) wishing to practice in the UK who has not attended a school or college accredited by the GOsC has to make an individual application to the GOsC. For more information on registration with the GOsC go to www.osteopathy.org.uk. Other European countries each have different levels of acceptance for practice; it would be advisable for you to check directly with the country for yourself prior to undertaking your study.
I am a qualified therapist in a different field can I practice my osteopathic skills on my patients whilst studying?
It would be inadvisable to do so. In the UK it is illegal for any individual who is not a registered Osteopath to undertake osteopathic treatment of patients, and ICOM does not condone the use by students of osteopathic techniques on patients / clients unless carried out in the Student Clinic or other accepted supervised osteopathic practice.
Is this course similar to those offered in the UK?
Yes. Whilst this course maintains the core content and standards of those offered in the UK, it is a course specifically designed for the Irish and European markets and will therefore take into consideration the needs of these students in their study.
What is an Undergraduate Masters?
In order to facilitate movement of students across Europe, the Bologna Accord was developed by participating countries. The Accord aims to standardise degrees across Europe, it states that undergraduate Bachelor degrees should be at least 3 years in length, with a 1 or 2 year diploma added at the end to achieve the Undergraduate Masters degree. A dissertation is required for the Masters programmes.
How long does this course last ?
The Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine (H. Dip. Ost.) is available as a part-time weekend course.The duration of the programme is between 3 and 5 years depending on pre-existing qualification.
How much does this course cost ?
The Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine (H. Dip. Ost.) costs €4,890.00 per year. There is a €190.00 per year discount available to students who pay course fees in full prior to the start of each study year.
Can I pay by installments ?
Yes - students can opt to pay a deposit of €1,890.00 and thirty-six monthly direct debit installments of €355.00 for the three year APEL route or a deposit of €1,890.00 and sixty monthly direct debit installments of €376.00 for the standard five year route.
Where is this course available ?
The Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine (H. Dip. Ost.) is available at the National Training Centre in Dublin.
How will I be assessed ?
Students of the Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine (H. Dip. Ost.) are assessed through written and practical demonstration examination and clinical assessments on patients. A small amount of final examination marks may be achieved through continual assessment throughout the course.
What age group participate on this course ?
Students of all ages participate on the Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine (H. Dip. Ost.)
What is the success rate ?
As this programme in Osteopathic Medicine is the first of its kind in Ireland it is not possible to state a success rate, however in the U.K., where Osteopathy has been available as a study option for many years, 80% - to 90% of students will successfully complete all of their final examinations on the first attempt. Of the remainder most will need to repeat one exam with a small number having to repeat more than one exam. Every individual's ability to succeed will be in direct proportion to the number of tutorials attended and the commitment and time and effort they are prepared to commit to their studies. The success rate in the U.K. when repeat examinations are taken into consideration is in excess of 95%.
How much of the course is practical and how much is theory ?
The Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine (H. Dip. Ost.) comprises approximately 40% theory and 60% hands-on practical tutorials. Most tutorial sessions will contain both theory and practical aspects.
When will this course be accredited to degree level?
The course we are offering is a Higher Diploma in Osteopathy. ICOM is currently in discussion with the relevant authorities, for the validation of the diploma to the Undergraduate Masters Degree status. We are awaiting information regarding the accreditation process and timeframe.
What are the expected contact hours for this course?
The teaching programme will include attendance of 2 to 3 weekends per month in Dublin. However, the nature of the course requires that students will undertake the minimum number of home study hours which will be directed per module. The clinical phase of the course will require a minimum of 1000 hours of clinical attendance in the student teaching clinic. This will be timetabled for attendance during the week / weekends or in the evenings. Students will be informed of their timetabling before the start of the appropriate academic year.
What does the clinical training involve?
The clinical phase of the course will require a minimum of 1000 hours of clinical attendance in the student teaching clinic. Students will observe or undertake the treatment of real patients under the supervision of qualified and registered osteopaths. Student clinical practice will be timetabled for attendance during the week / weekends or in the evenings. Students will be informed of their timetabling before the start of the appropriate academic year.
