BECOME AN
OSTEOPATH
A CAREER, A LIFE-LONG PASSION!
Are you considering a career in healthcare? Becoming an osteopath could be the perfect path. Osteopaths are in high demand across the UK and internationally, known for their specialist knowledge and ability to help people of all ages live healthier, more comfortable lives.
Whether you pursue a Bachelor of Science (BSc.) or an Integrated Masters (M.Ost) degree, you’ll graduate fully equipped with the skills and confidence to provide expert osteopathic care. From day one, you’ll join a respected and regulated healthcare profession dedicated to improving well-being.
Not only is it a rewarding and impactful career, but it can also be financially fulfilling. Osteopaths typically earn between £64 and £110 per hour, with 5% of clinic-owning osteopaths earning over £100,000 annually, (based on results from the Institute of Osteopathy 2024 Census).
EXPLORE THE OSTEOPATHY PROSPECTUS
- Course information
- Course providers from the leading colleges and universities
- Entry requirements and more
Pathways into studying Osteopathy
Osteopathy is also an excellent second career option for individuals with experience in a variety of different backgrounds, including the Armed Forces, sports or holistic therapies. iO Professional Development Manager, Daniel McCarthy teamed up with NHS England to host an engaging and collaborative webinar, introducing osteopathy as a path for those transitioning from military service.
Below you will find a detailed overview of the osteopathic profession, including post-graduation career opportunities.
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Studying
Osteopathy
Learning all there is to know about anatomy and physiology together with nutrition, biomechanics, pathology and pharmacology, you will be working with real patients whilst you study for either Batchelor of Science (BSc.) or integrated Masters (M.Ost.).
You will learn hands-on practical skills and techniques that will enable you to assess, diagnose and help not only the site of pain but take a whole-person approach to health. Research skills and business communications are also included in your degree.
Courses typically last four years full-time or five years part-time and combine academic studies with over 1,000 hours of clinical training. Upon completion of your degree, and on registration with the regulator, you will be able to practise as a fully qualified osteopath.
There are several higher education institutions currently providing a recognised qualification in osteopathy. There are both full-time and part-time courses available. Please check with the individual institution on course options and entry requirements.
- The London School of Osteopathy, London
- Marjon University, Plymouth
- ICOM at Nescot College, Surrey
- Swansea University, Swansea
- Health Sciences University, UCO School of Osteopathy, London
- BCNO Group
Only the recognised providers listed are validated to provide osteopathic training that meets the educational standards required for registration by the UK’s regulator. If you require more information on recognised provided please contact us.
This will vary but typically you will need Level 3/higher level qualifications in health or science subjects. Some institutions will provide access or bridging courses to help school leavers and/or mature students apply for entry. If you have qualified as a doctor or physiotherapist, you may be able to take an accelerated course.
Tuition fees vary between institutions. If you are a UK applicant and do not already hold a degree-level qualification you can apply to Student Finance, England for a loan to help with fees and living costs.
These attributes are helpful to have when becoming an osteopath:
- Interest in people and how the body works
- Ability to work by yourself and be independent
- Ability to work with others
- A scientific enquiring mind
- Curiosity and creativity
- Maturity
- Independence and individuality
DON’T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT…
Whether is running your own practice or in the NHS, from working with children to sports people, step into the shoes of these successful osteopaths and find out what it’s really like working as an osteopath.