New Starter - Pre-Reg Osteopathy | Health Sciences University

Pre-Reg Osteopathy

Welcome from the Course Leader

Welcome to the MSc Osteopathy (Pre-registration) programme at Health Sciences University.

I am delighted to welcome you to a course that has been specifically designed for experienced healthcare professionals who are ready to take the next step in their careers by becoming registered osteopaths. You are joining a community of learners who already bring a wealth of clinical knowledge and professional experience, and we look forward to helping you build on these strengths throughout your studies.

This accelerated programme recognises your existing expertise in musculoskeletal care while providing the knowledge, practical skills and clinical experience required to develop into a safe, confident and autonomous osteopathic practitioner. Over the next two years, you will deepen your understanding of osteopathic philosophy and principles, refine your clinical reasoning and manual skills, and develop the competence required to apply for registration with the General Osteopathic Council upon successful completion of the course.

Learning at master’s level is both challenging and rewarding. You will be encouraged to question, reflect and think critically, integrating new osteopathic concepts with your existing professional practice. Through teaching, supervised clinical education and research, you will develop the confidence to manage increasingly complex patient presentations while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and patient-centred care.

One of the greatest strengths of this programme is the opportunity to learn within our purpose-built teaching clinic, where you will work with a diverse range of patients under the guidance of experienced clinicians. Alongside your clinical education, you will become part of a supportive academic community that values collaboration, innovation and lifelong learning, helping you to develop as both an osteopath and a healthcare professional.

We are committed to supporting you throughout your journey and helping you achieve your ambitions. Whether your goal is to integrate osteopathy into your current practice or to establish yourself as an autonomous osteopathic practitioner, we look forward to working with you and seeing you develop over the next two years.

I wish you every success and look forward to welcoming you to the MSc Osteopathy (Pre-registration) programme.

Rachel Ives
Course Leader, MSc Osteopathy (Pre-registration)
Health Sciences University

Welcome Week, Enrolment and Induction


Welcome Week is your chance to meet your tutors, university teams and, most importantly, your new classmates. You’ll also have the opportunity to get to know your campus, take part in social activities and start settling into university life.

Induction is your introduction to your course and life as an HSU student. You’ll get important information about your course, meet key members of your teaching and support teams, and find out everything you need to know to get started.

Both Induction and Welcome Week are important parts of starting your HSU journey. You can find your timetable below, including details of your sessions and activities.

MSC PRE-REGISTRATION SCHEDULE

 

You will receive an email with instructions on how to complete your initial registration ahead of induction and enrolment. Please follow the instructions in the email and complete your registration as soon as possible.

Information for your First Day


Where to go on your first day

On your first day at Health Sciences University (HSU), go directly to the reception area – located at 275 Borough High Street, London SE1 1JE for the London campus. Staff will be there to greet you and direct you to your classroom.

What time to arrive

The course starts on Monday 17th August at 9.00am with ‘Welcome Registration and & Introductions’

What to bring
  • A laptop or tablet with access to Microsoft Teams, a webcam and a microphone.
  • A notepad and pens for taking notes.
  • A refillable water bottle. Water fountains are available throughout the University.

If you have been allocated a locker, you do not need to bring a padlock.

Dress Code

There is no formal dress code for lectures, seminars and other classroom-based teaching. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and footwear that is suitable for a full day of study.

Clinic scrubs will be required for practical teaching sessions and clinical activities from Year 1.

Who to contact if you're delayed

If you’re going to miss or be late, 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).

Academic Preparation


The course starts on Monday 17th August.

In addition to your tuition fees, there are some additional costs you may wish to budget for during your studies. These will vary depending on your personal circumstances and choices.

Accommodation and Living Costs

If you are moving away from home, you will need to arrange and pay for your own accommodation and day-to-day living expenses. Our Student Services team can provide advice and guidance on finding suitable accommodation.

Enhanced DBS Check

As part of the requirements for this course, you will need to complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before starting your studies. Depending on your clinical placements, you may also be required to complete additional DBS checks for community clinic placements.

We also recommend subscribing to the DBS Update Service, which allows your DBS status to be checked by the University, employers and placement providers without the need for a new DBS application.

  • Enhanced DBS Check: approximately £58
  • DBS Update Service: currently £16 per year, plus a £5 administration fee
  • Police Checks (if required): subject to local charges
Occupational Health Screening and Vaccinations

Before enrolling, you will need to complete an occupational health screening to confirm your suitability for clinical practice.

The initial pre-enrolment health screening currently costs £28.50. Additional costs may apply for vaccinations, missed appointments or second opinions where required.

Students are strongly advised to ensure they are vaccinated against COVID-19 and occupational Hepatitis B, and that routine immunisations including Polio, Tuberculosis (TB), Tetanus, Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Diphtheria, Varicella (Chickenpox) and seasonal influenza are up to date.

Clinical Equipment

You will need to purchase a range of clinical equipment for practical and clinical examination skills from Year 1. This typically includes a stethoscope, sphygmomanometer, patella hammer, tuning forks, pen torch and neurological testing equipment.

  • Approximate cost: £150–£300, depending on the supplier.
Clinic Scrubs

Clinical scrubs are required for practical teaching and clinical sessions from Year 1 onwards. We recommend purchasing three sets.

  • Current supplier price: from £13.40 + VAT (without embroidered HSU logo) or £17.15 + VAT (with embroidered HSU logo).
  • Prices may vary if purchased from another supplier.
Student ID Card

Your first HSU Student ID Card is provided free of charge when you enrol. Replacement cards are available for a non-refundable fee of £10.

Travel

You will be responsible for the cost of travelling to and from the University throughout your studies. Most University clinics are within walking or cycling distance of the campus, although some community clinic placements may require additional travel.

Optional Overseas Opportunities

There may be opportunities to take part in optional overseas placements or exchanges, including Australia and other destinations. Participation is voluntary, and students are responsible for all associated travel, accommodation and visa costs.

Books and Study Materials

Most learning resources are provided electronically through the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). Core textbooks are available through the library, although copies 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 appropriate.

Printing and Photocopying

Should you wish to print lecture notes or other learning materials, you will be responsible for these costs. Printing required for patient records in clinic is provided where necessary.

IT Equipment

To make the most of your studies, we recommend having access to a laptop or tablet for accessing online learning resources, completing coursework and participating in digital learning activities.

Social Activities

The Health Sciences University Students’ Union (HSUSU) organises a range of social events throughout the year, including Welcome Week activities designed to help new students settle into university life. Participation is optional, but you may wish to budget for any events or activities you choose to attend. UK students from low-income backgrounds may be eligible for a Welcome Week Social Events Bursary.

Graduation

If you successfully complete your course, you will be invited to attend your graduation ceremony. Attendance is optional.

Graduates attend the ceremony free of charge but are required to hire academic dress (approximately £39). Guest tickets are available to purchase (typically £20–£25 each), and any travel or accommodation costs associated with attending the ceremony are the responsibility of the graduate and their guests.

Please note: This information is intended as a guide and is not an exhaustive list of potential additional costs. Fees and charges are correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.

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

Any Other Information


Read our course page HERE.

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