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Welcome from the Course Leader
A very warm welcome to the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Osteopathic Sciences & Healthcare) at Health Sciences University. The Access to Higher Education Diploma programme is a one-year Further Education programme which leads to a nationally recognised award. It is designed specifically, but not exclusively, for students over the age of 19 with little or no scientific background, and who have not previously studied in Higher Education but wish to go on to become osteopaths or to study a related health care discipline at degree level.
This Access programme enables you to develop the knowledge and skills needed for successful study of osteopathy or other health degree at undergraduate degree level. There is a strong emphasis on the biological and physical sciences, as well as an introduction to study skills. One unit looks specifically at life as a professional osteopath and units on English, mathematics, clinical communication and ensure that you have a sound basis for further study.
The programme is validated by Laser Learning Awards so successful students will gain a nationally recognised award which is an acceptable entry qualification in colleges and universities throughout the UK. Access students at the UCO School of Osteopathy enjoy all the resources that the largest and most well- established school of osteopathy in the UK can offer and we firmly believe there is no better course to prepare you for degree studies in this area. Student feedback on the course is consistently excellent, and we are confident that you will have a successful, rewarding and enjoyable year.
I’m looking forward to working with you.
Rachel Ives MSc, BSc (Hons), PG Cert, DO.
Course Leader
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Osteopathic Sciences & Healthcare) and MSc Pre-Registration course in Osteopathy.
Welcome Week, Enrolment and Induction
Welcome Week starts on 7 September. Access students will have their induction day on 11 September.
For more detail, view your Welcome Week timetable here.
- Welcome Week timetables are provisional and subject to change
Induction: 11 September 2026
View your Welcome Week timetable here.
- Welcome Week timetables are provisional and subject to change
Recommended pre reading
There’s no requirement to complete any pre-reading or preparation before you start. The course builds from the ground up, and preparation for each week is signposted on the VLE in good time.
If you’d like to get a head start, one option worth considering is looking at Biology, Chemistry and Physics GCSE material on BBC Bitesize: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zng4d2p
There’s nothing to submit or prepare formally. Just come ready to think and share.
Uniform
There’s no uniform or dress code for this course. There is a clinic visit in November, where you are required to dress in a professional manner.
Equipment
A scientific Calculator and a geometry set for the ‘Mathematics for Healthcare’ unit.
You won’t need any specialist equipment or clinical equipment for this course, but there are a few things worth having in place, and a couple of costs to consider alongside your course fee:
- A tablet or computer/laptop for your personal use. This isn’t compulsory, but it’s recommended, as it gives you immediate access to the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
- A good-quality broadband connection for studying at home.
- A webcam and microphone, for joining live sessions on Microsoft Teams.
A few other costs worth knowing about as you go:
- Teaching materials are provided electronically via the VLE. If you’d like printed copies, that’s at your own cost.
- Core texts are available as e-books through the library, so buying your own copies is optional — some students choose to buy a few, but it’s not necessary to complete the course.
Student ID Card
Your first HSU Student ID Card is provided free of charge when you enrol. If you need a replacement card, there is a £10 non-refundable fee.
Books and Study Materials
Most learning resources are provided electronically through our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). Core textbooks are available in the library, although numbers may be limited, and many students choose to purchase some recommended texts. We recommend waiting until your course begins before buying any books, as your tutors will advise which resources are most useful.
Printing and Photocopying
If you choose to print lecture notes or other learning materials, you will need to cover these costs yourself.
IT Equipment
To support your studies, we strongly recommend having access to a laptop or tablet so you can use the University’s online learning resources and complete coursework.
Social Activities
The Health Sciences University Students’ Union (HSUSU) organises a range of social events throughout the year, including Welcome Week activities for new students. Participation is optional, but you may wish to budget for any events or activities you choose to attend.
Please Note: The information above is intended as a guide and is not an exhaustive list of potential costs. All fees and charges are correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
Information for your First Day
What time to arrive 
Your first session, which is the course induction, will be at 13.30 on Friday 11th September and runs for 3 hours. The course then runs on Friday evenings (5.30-8.30) and Saturdays (9.30-4.30).
View your Welcome Week timetable here.
- Welcome Week timetables are provisional and subject to change
What to bring
Nothing to bring as such but you will need a device with access to Teams, webcam and microphone and a notebook. Nothing needs to be printed or purchased in advance.
Dress Code
None. As this is delivered entirely online, however you’re comfortable is fine. You will be required to wear professional dress for the clinic visit.
Who to contact if you're delayed
If you’re going to miss or be late to a live session, let your unit lead know in advance where possible.
If you have concerns about attendance or would like to discuss the course further contact Course Lead, Rachel Ives (Rachel.Ives@hsu.ac.uk).
Timetable
Information to come
Meet your Teaching Team
Course Leader
Rachel Ives
Course Leader (MSc Pre-Registration Osteopathy and Access to Higher Education Diploma)
Rachel is a registered Osteopath and has worked in osteopathic education for many years as a lecturer, clinic tutor and senior manager. She has also taught science in secondary schools.
Full bio
Meet your core teaching team
Jacqui Black – Unit Leader – Jacqui is a registered Osteopath in private practice and leads four units on the course.
Joanna Lear – Jo has a background in criminology and leads the study skills and Professional Studies units.
Shakeela Rashid – Shakeela is a retired Osteopath and also teaches physics in secondary schools. She teaches Physics and neuro-endocrine systems on the access course.
Amrit Theocharous – Amrit is a karate teacher, massage therapist and teaches Biology units on the access course.
Any Other Information
Read our course page HERE.
