All applicants need to have a keen interest in working in a para-medical profession, and a firm 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. 

The programme is structured to run over five years part-time. It involves weekend attendance and in the latter part of the programme further clinical hours of training. These are in addition to the weekend training and will be carried out at established osteopathic clinics. For applicants with eligible existing qualifications, a four-year direct entry route which takes into consideration previous anatomy and physiology knowledge is also available.

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. 



Direct Entry Route - 4 Years

A 4-year direct entry route for applicants who hold a professional qualification, of at least higher diploma level, in an associated area is also available. Although Leaving Certificate with a science subject is highly desirable, each application from qualified professionals will be considered individually. 

The University of Chester recognises prior experiential learning as a valid route into higher education, and each faculty of study has its own APL Assessor to facilitate this.

Four year direct entry route applicants must attend an interview with the Principal of the Irish College of Osteopathic Medicine to determine if their prior experiential learning is likely to meet entry requirements. Where it has been determined that an applicant meets entry requirements the student will then need to follow the University of Chester’s procedure for final acceptance on to the programme. 

Basic Sciences

The standard (5 year) route includes the detailed study of Anatomy & Physiology while both routes include:

Medical Studies: 


A wide ranging study area, which covers 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 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.

Principles of Osteopathy:

Students will learn about the historical background of Osteopathy and its importance within the healthcare system. By understanding the philosophy, principles and mechanics that underpin Osteopathic practice, students will be able to adapt and apply appropriate care to patients with wide ranging presentations. 

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 teamwork 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. 1204 hours of clinical attendance over the whole of the programme is expected.  The individual’s actual attendance will be timetabled in advance at the beginning of each academic year. 


Students will also study the role of the osteopath in a wider healthcare environment, enabling them to become prepared for the possibility of multi-disciplinary practice. 

Dissertation: 


An Honours level research dissertation is required to be developed in the final year. Study of the fundamentals necessary to fulfill this are undertaken from the first year.

The cost of the BSc (Hons) Osteopathy degree programme is €4,890.00 per academic year.



You can secure a place on the BSc (Hons) Osteopathy 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 (Four Year Direct Entry Route) with the balance again payable two weeks before the start date for each year.

OPTION 2 - Standard Route

60 monthly Direct Debit payments of €376.00 



OPTION 2 - Four Year Direct Entry Route

48 monthly Direct Debit payments of €368.12

Please note that enrollments for the Four Year Direct Entry Route route must be approved by the University of Chester’s APL Assessor.The Four Year Direct Entry Route Route Enrollment is available only to those with a professional qualification of at least higher diploma level in an associated area. Although the Leaving Certificate (or equivalent) with a science subject is highly desirable, each application from qualified professionals will be considered individually.

Students who have examined all aspects of the programme of education and who are sure that it meets their requirement, should pay the deposit as soon as they decide to enroll as places on this programme are limited.

Students who enroll on the Four Year Direct Entry Route route following interview with the Principal, but prior to the conclusion of the University of Chester’s APL Assessment, will have any course fees paid, including deposits, refunded if the University does not approve their entry to the Four Year Direct Entry Route option and if they decide not to pursue the standard route. Deposits are non-refundable in all other instances.

Collectively the Osteopaths teaching at ICOM have teaching experience at the most renowned schools of Osteopathy in the UK including the British School of Osteopathy, the British College of Osteopathic Medicine, the European School of Osteopathy, the London School of Osteopathy, the College of Osteopaths Educational Trust and the John Wernham College of Classical Osteopathy.



Principal

Principal of ICOM, Melanie Coutinho BSc (Hons), DO is a registered Osteopath with over 23 years of experience in the education of Osteopaths in the UK and Europe. An International lecturer and examiner, she has led teams in the development and delivery of Osteopathy to Masters Level and will be involved in teaching on this BSc programme. She has held the Principal role at two UK osteopathic schools.

Director 


John Sharkey, BSc, NMT, MSc, Director of the National Training Centre and ICOM will also be a key member of the team. He is an anatomist, exercise physiologist, neuromuscular physical therapist and a full member of the Medical and Science team of the Olympic Council of Ireland since 1999.

Greg Barker

Greg is a practicing osteopath and naturopath with over twenty years of experience. He has been a member of clinical faculty at the British School of Osteopathy for thirteen years and currently holds senior faculty member status at two U.K. osteopathic schools. Greg's speciality is Osteopathic technique.

Dhirindar Bhullar

A graduate of the British College of Osteopathic Medicine (BCOM), Dhirindar lectures in anatomy, osteopathic technique and clinical practice. A respected international lecturer, he specialises in the treatment of newborns and children.

Helen Bullen


A qualified osteopath and teacher, Helen has taught osteopaths, sports therapists and rehabilitation instructors within the British RAF, Navy and Army. She is also an external examiner for the College of Osteopaths’ final examination. Helen teaches technique, clinical skills, pathology and more.

Jamie Lauder

Jamie’s area of expertise is the theoretical and philosophical area of osteopathic principles and mechanics. Jamie's unique understanding of this subject comes from the teachings of Still, Littlejohn and Wernham; he employs a unique practical base to these lectures using methods such as debate, presentation and practical exercises.

Claire Lenihan

Claire graduated with a first class Honours degree in Osteopathic Medicine and currently lectures in diagnostic studies, osteopathic technique and clinical practice. Claire has also studied applied physiology and health science at Carlow IT.

David Lintonbon

Osteopathic technique is David’s passion. A graduate of the British School of Osteopathy, David has refined osteopathic techniques and developed a programme for the physiotherapy team at Manchester City FC. David has also produced a DVD for osteopathic technique, which is sold worldwide.

Nicky Virdee

A graduate of the British College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nicky teaches osteopathic technique as well as playing an active role as a clinical tutor, where she has helped develop the educational experience for students at all levels. Nicky’s specialist interests include visceral Osteopathy.

Will Williams

With more than a decade teaching experience, Will currently lectures at the College of Osteopaths, Middlesex University and has been involved in the establishment of the osteopathic degree course at Keele University.

Our highly experienced lecturing team will be augmented with assistance from some new team members who will bring a fresh approach to the delivery of osteopathic education.

Leah Hearle

Currently working with professional rugby and football teams in the UK dealing with acute sports injuries, rehabilitation and preventative treatment.

Claire McKenna

Head osteopath for the Swedish national women’s rugby squad as they prepare for the 2012 Olympic Games. 

Carrie McEwan
Besides lecturing at a UK osteopathic school Carrie is also working for two semi-professional football clubs, and brings her expertise from the sports field with her to ICOM.

Besides these lecturers the ICOM team will include Osteopaths from Ireland and other countries, all of whom will be registered and experts in specific areas such as sports medicine.   

BSc (Hons) Osteopathy - Schedule

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. 


The 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.



The Direct Entry Route (4 Years)

Enrollment is available only to those with a professional qualification of at least higher diploma level in an associated area. Although the Leaving Certificate with a science subject is highly desirable, each application from qualified professionals will be considered individually. Applicants for this route must have undertaken the APEL procedure for acceptance.


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 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 collectively which treatment model is likely to offer the best solution. 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 you can 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 Osteopathic 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.The National Training Centre have a customised insurance scheme with discounted rates available exclusively to those who have qualified with NTC. The policy is one of the broadest available including many important features that other policies may not offer. The policy has been arranged through Balens Ltd and the insurer for the scheme is the Zurich and DAS Legal Expenses. Balens are a very well established, fourth generation family-run business dedicated to looking after health professionals. They are built on solid roots going back to 1950 and are pioneers in the development of top quality cover for all types of health professionals with special rates and industry leading cover that has been developing and improving over 22 years in this speciality. The scheme will cover thousands of other therapies/activities you may require cover for and many at no extra premium subject to suitable qualification held. Some of the features covered in the policy consist of Medical Malpractice, Professional Indemnity, Public Liability, Product Liability, Loss of Reputation, Breach of Intellectual Property, Client Confidentiality Protection, Loss of Documents cover, First Aid cover as well as Good Samaritan Acts. The indemnity limit is €4,000,000 per claim for the Republic of  Ireland. Unlike some other policies on the market, an unlimited number of claims may be made for any year and unlimited legal defence costs are also included. Also included, at no extra charge, is retroactive cover to pick up any previous insured work. Temporary cover abroad (excluding USA/Canada(although available on request)) is available with no time restrictions and at no additional premium as long as you are a UK/Ireland resident. If you cease to practice Balens include unlimited run off cover which means the policy will always be in place if a claim was made after you stop the policy running and this is also free of charge. For further information or proposal form, please contact Balens directly on 00441684 580771 or e-mail- info@balens.co.uk 


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. The BSc (Hons) Osteopathy qualification fits with currently published requirements for entry onto professional registers.

Is this qualification accepted internationally?



Depending on the country, usually yes. The General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) is the statutory regulator in the UK and ICOM graduates intending to work in the UK would be able to apply for registration in accordance with the GOsC registration guidance which can be found at http://www.osteopathy.org.uk/uploads/registering_with_the_gosc.pdf  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 College Student Clinic or other College accepted osteopathic practice and then only under the supervision of registered Osteopaths. 


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. 




How long does this course last?

The BSc (Hons) Osteopathy degree is available as a part-time weekend course. The duration of the programme is between 4 and 5 years depending on pre-existing qualification. 


How much does this course cost?

The BSc (Hons) Osteopathy degree 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 forty-eight monthly direct debit installments of €368.12 for the four year direct entry route or a deposit of €1,890.00 and sixty monthly direct debit installments of €376.00 for the standard five year route. 


When must the non-refundable deposit be paid?  Once you have decided to enroll you should pay the deposit as places are available on a first come, first served basis.

Where is this course available? 


The BSc (Hons) Osteopathy degree is available at the National Training Centre in Dublin. 


How will I be assessed? 



Students of the BSc (Hons) Osteopathy degree are assessed through written assessments, practical demonstration assessments and clinical assessments carried out on real patients. A percentage of the assessment marks may be achieved through continual assessment throughout the course, and the amount will depend on the individual modules. Students are also required to undertake a viva voce to defend their research dissertation in the final year. 



What age groups participate on this course? 



Students of all ages participate on the BSc (Hons) Osteopathy degree, so students can expect an interesting and exciting experience when studying at ICOM.  

What is the success rate?


As this programme in Osteopathy 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 BSc (Hons) Osteopathy degree comprises approximately 40% theory and 60% hands-on practical tutorials. Most tutorial sessions will contain both theory and practical aspects. 



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. In unusual circumstances students may be permitted to undertake a small percentage of their clinical study at agreed osteopathic practices closer to their normal abode, however there are strict regulations for this and students need to adhere to these in order to be permitted to do so.