The most common question about osteopathy answered.
How much do Osteopaths earn?
On average an osteopath will earn £46,500 per annum with the top 10% earning over £100,000. Figures based on 2014 survey by Institute of Osteopathy.
How long does it take to become an osteopath?
It takes a minimum of 3 ½ years to qualify as an osteopath.
At the LSO we offer the fastest route to qualification via our BOst (Hons) degree which takes 3 ½ years to complete on a full-time basis. To qualify with an MOSt students spend 4 years full-time or 5 years part-time studying osteopathy.
All students when they start are enrolled on our MOSt degree with the decision to qualify with an MOSt or BOst made in the penultimate year of studies.
Is osteopathy an allied health profession?
Since 2017 osteopathy has been recognised by NHS England as an Allied Health Profession.
Can I combine working with studying for a degree in osteopathy?
Our part-time degree course has been structured with those wishing to combine studying and working. Contact teaching time is every other weekend during term-time. Clinic hours are scheduled to fit in around your work pattern.
Depending on your occupation you may be able to work a couple of days whilst studying full-time.
Where does an osteopath work?
Most osteopaths work in private practice. They may work in a multi-disciplinary practice alongside chiropractors and other allied health professionals. Some osteopaths specialise in particular fields including: cranial osteopathy, antenatal, post-natal, sports injuries and equine osteopathy.
A small number of osteopaths work within the NHS.
Where do you study osteopathy?
LSO Osteopathy students spend time studying both in the college and in the clinic. Our college based in Bermondsey where lecturers and tutorials take place. Clinical practise takes place in Bethnal Green.
Why become an osteopath?
As an osteopath you will be joining one of the recognised allied health professions. Your hours and working pattern are set by you with no late night or weekend working unless you choose to. No two days are the same and no two patients are the same, so your days will be interesting and varied. The role is also rewarding, especially when a patient reports being free of the pain they’ve suffered for a number of months.
Do osteopaths need to be qualified to practise?
To practice in the UK osteopaths must complete a recognised Osteopathy qualification from a recognised school.
Are osteopaths doctors?
Osteopaths are not doctors and cannot prescribe medication. Students however train between 3 ½ and 5 years to become an osteopath. Lectures in the areas of physiology,anatomy, clinical pathology, differential diagnosis together with osteopathy are covered in-depth
How is Osteopathy regulated in the UK?
Osteopathy in the UK is regulated by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). To be on the register you must first complete a recognised qualification such as an osteopathy degree from the LSO. All osteopaths are required to register with the GOsC following qualification. Osteopaths must complete 90 hours of CPD in total (including at least 45 hours learning with others) over three years.
Why study osteopathy?
If you wish to practise as an osteopath then you need to complete a recognised osteopathy degree. As an osteopath you are able to diagnose and treat patients who present with a variety of conditions.
Can I study osteopathy part-time?
Yes students can choose to study part-time at the weekends or full-time during the week
