Master of Osteopathic Medicine (CRICOS course code 098206J) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This program is designed for students seeking a career in osteopathic practice, combining theoretical knowledge with clinical placements. Southern Cross University is a CRICOS-registered provider (01241G) with campuses in Gold Coast and Lismore. The course fee is indicative A$56,000 total, and it includes a substantial work-integrated learning component of 610 hours. All information on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. As a HeadStart Academy resource, we provide unbiased data to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
Master of Osteopathic Medicine (CRICOS course code 098206J) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This course is classified under the field of Health (06) with a focus on Rehabilitation Therapies (0617) and specifically Chiropractic and Osteopathy (061705). Osteopathic medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that emphasizes the interrelationship between structure and function of the body. Graduates typically pursue careers as registered osteopaths, working in private practice, clinics, or hospitals. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, and this course is one of them. Southern Cross University has been delivering quality education since 1994 and is fully accredited under the ESOS Act, ensuring protections for international students.
As a Masters Degree (Coursework) in Chiropractic and Osteopathy, this program covers advanced theoretical and practical aspects of osteopathic medicine. Students explore anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and diagnostic techniques specific to osteopathic practice. The curriculum integrates evidence-based research with clinical reasoning, preparing graduates to assess, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal conditions. Practical components include simulated labs and real-world clinical placements. While we cannot provide the exact syllabus, typical learning outcomes include the ability to apply osteopathic principles in patient care, develop treatment plans, and understand the ethical and legal frameworks of healthcare in Australia. The course is taught entirely in English, and all learning materials are aligned with Australian osteopathic standards.
The Master of Osteopathic Medicine is delivered full-time over 78 weeks (1 year 6 months). The course is conducted entirely in English and is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies attached. Students are expected to commit to a full-time study load, including both classroom-based learning and clinical placements. The CRICOS register lists the duration as 78 weeks, and this aligns with the actual program length. International students must maintain a full-time enrolment as per their student visa conditions. Southern Cross University may offer flexible study options, but the standard mode is on-campus at either the Gold Coast or Lismore campus.
Indicative fees for the Master of Osteopathic Medicine are as follows: Tuition: A$52,000, Non-tuition fees: A$4,000, estimated total: A$56,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change by Southern Cross University. Please note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For the most current fee schedule, always refer to the official SCU website. As a guide, living costs in Gold Coast and Lismore vary: Gold Coast is higher (approx. A$450–600 per week for rent), while Lismore is more affordable (approx. A$300–450 per week). Budgeting accordingly is essential for your stay in Australia.
Entry into this master's program typically requires a completed bachelor's degree in a relevant health science field, with a strong academic record. English language proficiency is essential: the indicative requirement is IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). Some applicants may need to demonstrate prior foundational knowledge in anatomy or physiology. Southern Cross University may also consider professional experience. As the course is at AQF Level 9, a postgraduate qualification is expected. Foundation studies are not offered for this course. For exact prerequisites, including specific GPA or prerequisite subjects, you must check the SCU website or contact their admissions team. All international applicants must meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements for their student visa.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component: 61 weeks of placement at 10 hours per week, totaling approximately 610 hours. This work-integrated learning is integral to the osteopathic training, providing students with hands-on clinical experience under supervision. Placements may occur in SCU's own osteopathic clinics, or with external healthcare providers such as private practices, hospitals, or community health centers. The work component is structured to develop practical skills in patient assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. It also helps students build professional networks and meet registration requirements with the Osteopathy Board of Australia. Students are responsible for any costs related to travel or uniforms during placements.
The Master of Osteopathic Medicine is delivered at two campuses: Gold Coast Airport Development Park - Bilinga in BILINGA, QLD, and Lismore in EAST LISMORE, NSW. The Gold Coast campus is located near the airport and borders New South Wales, offering a vibrant urban environment with a large international student population. Over 20 CRICOS-registered providers operate on the Gold Coast, and the city is known for its beaches and lifestyle. Lismore, in northern NSW, is a regional city with a lower cost of living and a strong community feel. Both campuses are accessible by public transport, and SCU provides student support services including accommodation assistance. Choosing between them depends on your preference for metropolitan vs. regional living.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia and includes work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. To obtain the visa, you must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity (including tuition, living costs, travel, and dependents), and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of health insurance and English proficiency. ESOS Act protections ensure your rights as an international student. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Applying for the Master of Osteopathic Medicine at Southern Cross University is straightforward. Follow these three steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to search for CRICOS-registered institutions offering this course. Filter by course level (Masters), field (Health), and location (QLD/NSW) to confirm SCU's listing.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit Southern Cross University's website to review exact entry requirements, including English language scores and academic transcripts. Submit your application online before the deadline (typically semester intakes). You may need to provide certified documents and meet specific prerequisite subjects.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, SCU will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. You will need to arrange OSHC, prove financial capacity, and attend a biometrics appointment if required. Always check the latest visa processing times.
Ready to start your journey? Explore Master of Osteopathic Medicine on Southern Cross University's website today.
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Master of Osteopathic Medicine is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross University (SCU). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.