“ When you have

adjusted the
physical to its
normal demands
nature supplies “
the remainder
Dr. Andrew Taylor Still
Founder of Osteopathy

Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine (H. Dip. Ost.)

Message from the Principal

The Irish College of Osteopathic Medicine (ICOM) has

been established to deliver programmes of education in
the area of Osteopathy. The programme has been
written to degree level by osteopaths with a wide range
of teaching experience at the most well renowned
schools of osteopathy in the UK including:

•    The British School of Osteopathy

•    The British College of Osteopathic Medicine
•    The European School of Osteopathy
•    The London School of Osteopathy
•    The College of Osteopaths Educational Trust
•    The John Wernham College of Classical Osteopathy

At ICOM we are excited to bring the highest standard of osteopathic education to

Ireland. This allows students to obtain an internationally accepted qualification and
affords successful graduates the ability to practice as an Osteopath in Ireland and many
other European countries.

Life at ICOM is not just about academic brilliance. The great strength of the College is
its sense of community. Our students come to us from all over Ireland and abroad, but
they share common bonds: they value learning, respect each other and appreciate the
skills and expertise of their teachers.

I look forward to welcoming you to this pioneering programme and I am always

available to talk to prospective students by email at icom@ntc.ie or you can call me
directly on 01 882 6667

Melanie Coutinho
Principal
What is Osteopathy ?

Osteopathy is a form of drug-free non-invasive manual medicine that focuses on total body health by
treating and strengthening the musculoskeletal framework, which includes the joints, muscles and spine.
Its aim is to positively affect the body's nervous, circulatory and lymphatic systems.

This therapy is a unique holistic (whole body) approach to health care. Osteopaths do not simply
concentrate on treating the problem area, but use manual techniques to balance all the systems of the
body, to provide overall good health and wellbeing.

Dr. Andrew Taylor Still established the practice of Osteopathy in the late 1800s in the United States of
America, with the aim of using manual 'hands on' techniques to improve circulation and correct altered
biomechanics, without the use of drugs.

The philosophy of Osteopathy is what sets

it apart from other medical disciplines.
The philosophy of Osteopathy is what sets it apart from other medical disciplines. The key principles
are based on all parts of the body functioning together in an integrated manner. If one part of the body
is restricted, then the rest of the body must adapt and compensate for this, eventually leading to
inflammation, pain, stiffness and other health conditions. When the body is free of restrictions in
movement, Osteopathic treatment assists the body with pain minimisation, reduced stress and greater
mobility providing the body with the opportunity to heal itself.

Osteopaths use a broad range of gentle hands-on techniques including soft tissue stretching, deep
tactile pressure, and mobilisation or manipulation of joints.

In some cases, Osteopaths can complement

the advice given by GPs. For example, people
who suffer from arthritis are often prescribed
medication by their GP. In addition to that,
Osteopaths can ease the pain caused by joint
and muscle stiffness, by improving joint
mobility and the flow of blood to the joints,
and show arthritis sufferers how to prevent
causing injury to themselves.
Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine (H. Dip. Ost.)

The Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine is an internationally

accepted qualification which will afford the successful graduate the
ability to practice as an Osteopath in Ireland and many other European
countries.

This modular programme aims to deliver osteopathic education

relevant for the Irish and European markets which will match the
standards set in the UK where osteopathy is a regulated profession.

The programme aims to enable students to develop a competence and

confidence in all aspects of professional practice, by encouraging
autonomy and criticality in thinking and action.

Students will undertake clinical practice (under the supervision of

qualified osteopaths experienced at teaching to degree level), and thus,
we envisage, will become recognised as role models and significant
health care providers within the wider community and the osteopathic
profession.

With a tutoring team of highly qualified and respected osteopathic

experts this programme will give participants a complete and fully
rounded education.

Osteopathy is well established across Europe and continues to become

a major aspect of primary healthcare. Graduates are self employed and
can work alongside other practitioners in private practice, within
multidisciplinary clinics or within a national healthcare systems of certain
countries.

Currently there is no stated CPD requirement for professional

osteopaths practising in Ireland or across Europe (except the UK).
However if you wish to become a registered Osteopath in the UK, on
successful application, to the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) 30
hours per year CPD is required. For more information on registration
with the GOsC go to www.osteopathy.org.uk

The course takes place at the Irish College of Osteopathic Medicine at

the National Training Centre in Dublin.
Entry Requirements

Standard Route (5 Years)

Enrollment is available to persons without a professional
qualification as the course covers all the required elements of
anatomy and physiology for practice. Ideal applicants include
anyone interested in the care of patients.

Students are expected to hold the Leaving Certificate (or

equivalent) with a minimum of grade B (Ordinary Level) or grade
C (Higher Level) in a science subject, preferably Chemistry.

APEL Route (3 Years)

We hope to shortly offer enrollment to those with a professional
qualification of at least diploma level in an associated area.
Although Leaving Certificate with a science subject is highly
desirable, each application from qualified professionals will be
considered individually.

All applicants need to have a keen interest in working in a para-

medical profession, and a commitment to upholding the
professional standards and expectations of osteopathy. They need
to be able to offer commitment to participation on this
programme which has been designed to fit in with the busy
schedules of working individuals.

Ideal applicants would include:

Nurses
Chiropractors
Doctors
Physiotherapists
H. Dip. Neuromuscular Therapists
Physical Therapists

Books and Study Aids

All course notes which are required reading for this programme are included in
the course fees. Clinical equipment will need to be purchased by the student
prior to undertaking the clinical practice modules, however it is anticipated that
group concessionary rates will be available.
The Team

Dhirindar Bhullar Will Williams Helen Jenkins Nick Wooley Jamie Lauder

David Lintinbon Nicky Virdee Helen Bullen Claire Lenihan Ariane Jeffrey-Nolan

Greg Barker Barbara Mirecka Leah Hearle Julie Oliver Claire Mc Kenna

John Sharkey Melanie Coutinho

Melanie Coutinho
Principal of ICOM, Melanie Coutinho BSc (Hons), DO is a Registered Osteopath with over 22 years of
experience in the education of Osteopaths in the UK and Europe. An International lecturer and
examiner, she has led teams in the development and delivery of osteopathy to Masters Level and will
also be involved in teaching on the programme. Melanie has previously held the Principal role at two
UK osteopathic schools.

John Sharkey
John Sharkey, BSc, NMT, MSc, Director of the NTC and ICOM will also be a key member of the team.
He is an anatomist, exercise physiologist, neuromuscular physical therapist and a full member of the
Medical and Science team of the Olympic Council of Ireland since 1999.

Dhirindar Bhullar
A graduate of the British College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dhirindar lectures in anatomy, osteopathic
technique and clinical practice. A respected international lecturer, he specialises in the treatment of
newborns and children.
Will Williams
With more than a decade teaching experience, Will currently lectures at the College of Osteopaths
Middlesex University and has been involved in the establishment of the osteopathic degree course at
Keele University.

Helen Jenkins
Helen has the distinction of having studied under osteopathy icon, John Wernham. She has been
Academic Registrar and course manager for 2 UK Osteopathic degree programmes and is a member
of the team which established the subject benchmark for osteopathy in the U.K.

Nick Woolley
Nick has been a senior lecturer at the BSO and lectures in clinical skills and osteopathic technique. He
has been responsible for the outstanding management and development of the patient base for the
undergraduate patient clinic at another UK osteopathy school.

Jamie Lauder
Jamie’s area of expertise is the very theoretical and philosophical area of osteopathic principles and
mechanics. Jamie's unique understanding of this subject comes from the teachings of Still, Littlejohn and
Wernham, he employs a unique practical base to these lectures using methods such as debate,
presentation and practical exercises.

David Lintonbon
Osteopathic technique is David’s passion. A graduate of the British School of Osteopathy, David has
refined osteopathic techniques and developed a programme for the physiotherapy team at
Manchester City FC. David has also produced a DVD for osteopathic technique which is sold
worldwide.

Nicky Virdee
A graduate of the British College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nicky teaches osteopathic technique as
well as playing an active role as a clinical tutor, where she has helped develop the educational
experience for students at all levels. Nicky’s specialist interests include Visceral osteopathy.

Helen Bullen
A qualified osteopath and teacher, Helen has taught osteopaths, sports therapists and rehabilitation
instructors within the British RAF, Navy and Army. She is also an external examiner for the College of
Osteopaths’ final examination. Helen teaches technique, clinical skills, pathology and more.
Claire Lenihan
Claire graduated with a first class honours degree in Osteopathic Medicine and currently lectures in
diagnostic studies, osteopathic technique and clinical practice. Claire has also studied applied physiology
and health science at Carlow IT.

Ariane Jeffrey - Nolan

Ariane qualified as an osteopath over twenty years ago from the BSO. She is lead lecturer in third year
technique and also works as a clinical tutor drawing on her large amount of experience having run two
osteopathic practices.

Greg Barker
Greg is a practising osteopath and naturopath for over twenty years. He has been a member of clinical
faculty at the British School of Osteopathy for thirteen years and currently holds senior faculty
member status at two U.K. osteopathic schools. Greg's speciality is osteopathic technique.

Our highly experienced lecturing team will be augmented with assistance from some new team members
who will bring a fresh approach to the delivery of osteopathic education.

Leah Hearle
Currently working with a rugby team dealing with acute sports injuries,rehabilitation and preventative
treatment.

Julie Oliver
Holder of a first class honours degree in osteopathy and currently working in a busy osteopathic
practice.

Claire McKenna
Head osteopath for the Swedish national women’s rugby squad as they prepare for the 2010 Olympic
Games.

Carrie McEwan
Besides lecturing at a UK osteopathic school Carrie is also working for two semi-professional football
clubs, and brings her expertise from the sports field with her to ICOM.
 Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine
Application
Use this form to submit your application for the Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine course only.

If completing this form by hand, please use black or blue ink. Use BLOCK LETTERS and mark boxes with an X

PERSONAL DETAILS
Please enter your name exactly as you would like it to appear on your qualification upon successful completion.

TITLE FIRST NAME (s) LAST NAME (s)

ADDRESS This address will be used for all correspondence before, during and after the course.You must inform us of any address change.

MOBILE NUMBER LANDLINE EMAIL

DATE OF BIRTH GENDER (Male or Female) OCCUPATION

NEXT OF KIN NAME NEXT OF KIN CONTACT NUMBER

HEALTH DETAILS
If you suffer from any illness or injury which could prevent your full participation, or if you have any special needs, please give details
here. If required please use additional sheet.

PUBLIC SAFETY
Please place an X in the box below to authorise a request to the Garda Central Vetting Unit should it be required for working with
children or vulnerable individuals.

DATA PROTECTION
The details entered on this form will be used by the NTC to contact you before, during and after the course. We will also pass your
name, email address and mobile telephone number to potential employers and clients post graduation. If

you do not want your
details passed on to potential employers and clients please Place an X in the box below.
COURSE SELECTION
Please indicate which VENUE and START DATE this application relates to.
DUBLIN MARCH 19TH 2011 5 Year Route
PAYMENT DETAILS
Please indicate the amount and method of any payment enclosed. Should you be unsuccessful at interview, any fees paid will be
refunded in full.
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DECLARATION
Your signature here indicates that the information provided by you on this form is true and complete and that you have read,
understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions below. A larger print version of the terms and conditions is available
on request.
Signature
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Disclosure Statement: By agreeing to be part of the Irish College of Osteopathic
Medicine (ICOM), I am aware that the college reserves the right to contact my
parent/guardian (if I am under 18 years old at the start of my programme) to share
attendance, progress and achievement data. I understand that if my employer is
paying my fees or releasing me from work, details of my attendance, progress and
achievement can be shared with my employer. I understand that in certain
circumstances ICOM may need to share attendance, progress and achievement data
with other concerned professionals, such as social workers, youth team workers and
learner support services. I understand that ICOM will respond to reference requests
from employers.
• I confirm that I have been interviewed and assessed for this course and received
advice and guidance as appropriate.
• I know that the course involves all activities of learning and accreditation and
achievement, including assessment, general and specific learner support services,
and enrichment activities as appropriate.
I have read the details above. I agree to be bound by the Student Code of Conduct
and agree to follow the behaviours as stated therein. I agree to ICOM using personal
data contained in this form or any other data which the College may obtain from
me, or other people, whilst I am a student for any purposes connected with my
studies or my health and safety whilst on the premises, or for any other legitimate
reason.
I confirm that the College will from time to time contact me by SMS, email and post
regarding college related matters.
Use of all study facilities is at the discretion of staff and tutors of the National
Training Centre (NTC) and its agents.
It is each student’s responsibility to ensure attendance at every tutorial. Such
attendance should be in a timely manner as late arrival at tutorials is disruptive for
other participants.
In addition to our Code of Ethics and our National Standards and Guidelines, the
National Training Centre has rules and regulations regarding personal appearance,
conduct, time-keeping, and attendance. Participation on this course assumes your
consent to be bound by these conditions.
At the time of interview or open day, please ask any questions you may have to
assist both the interviewer and yourself to ensure that this course meets your aims
and objectives. Payment of a deposit or course fees at any time guarantees a place
on the course, subject to availability. This guarantee is valid up to the specified
start date contained within the literature for this course, by which time the
balance of fees must be paid or a validated direct debit installment agreement
entered into. All deposit amounts paid in relation to courses are non-refundable in
all circumstances. The balance of fees may only be refunded in line with the NTC’s
standard refund policy. Once a course has commenced refunds will not be offered in
any circumstances. Should there be a genuine medical or compassionate reason why
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a student is unable to commence a course where a deposit or other fees have
already been paid, they may apply to the Educational Committee of the National
Training Centre to defer their participation to a later date. Deferrals will only be
considered for medically certified reasons and when fees are fully paid or
installment agreements are fully up to date.
This programme includes final examination and certificates will only be awarded to
those who successfully complete final examinations.
All applicants for courses have a responsibility to ensure that they are not suffering
from any illness or injury which may prevent their complete participation on the
course. Applicants must also ensure that they do not suffer from any communicable
disease and furthermore, should they contract such a disease during the term
where they are participating on the course, that they will not attend for the
duration of the period during which they could infect fellow students.
Students who wish to pay their course fees (other than deposits) by installments
must do so by Direct Debit, either from a bank account or a credit card account.
Examination results and / or certificates will not be issued to any student who has
not paid all fees due for their course.
Enrollment on this course commits students to the discharge of all fees related to
the course, irrespective of attendance or lack thereof. Once a course has
commenced refund of any course fees will not be considered in any circumstances
and all outstanding fees must be paid.
Any offer or promotion attached to this courses is subject to availability and may be
withdrawn without notice.
Course start dates may be subject to change. If a course start date changes you will
be offered the opportunity to transfer your enrollment to the new date or to
receive a full refund of any fees paid. Should a course be cancelled or postponed
the National Training Centre will not be held responsible for any additional costs
incurred by the student, including, but not limited to, transport or accommodation.
Once a course commences, although extremely unlikely, class dates and times may
be subject to change. Tutors for individual classes on courses may be subject to
change. Any and all special offers and/or promotions offered in relation to
enrollment for any course are always subject to availability. Although the National
Training Centre will always endeavour to meet all demands in relation to such
offers, should there be no availability for any offer an alternative or cash amount
will not be offered.
The ICOM is involved in the ongoing process of obtaining degree level accreditation
for Osteopathy programmes. This is standard procedure in the U.K. where courses
are established prior to obtaining degree level accreditation. Once accreditation
has been achieved students and graduates of this programme will have the option
to complete additional lectures and a dissertation in order to obtain degree status.
 Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine
Curriculum Vitae
Please complete all sections in order to assist in preparation for the interview

process. Please give as much detail as possible.

If completing this form by hand, please use black or blue ink. Use BLOCK LETTERS and mark boxes with an X

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
Please use an additional blank page,if required.

DATE EMPLOYER POSITION HELD

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
Please use an additional blank page,if required.

DATE COLLEGE OR INSTITUTION QUALIFICATION OBTAINED

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
Please use an additional blank page,if required.

DATE ASSOCIATION

OTHER INTERESTS, e.g. Sports, Leisure etc.

Please use an additional blank page,if required.

REFEREES
Please use an additional blank page,if required.

NAME POSITION CONTACT DETAILS

PERSONAL STATEMENT
Please let us know about you, and your interest in Osteopathy. If you prefer to use a typed sheet, please attach here with a staple.
Synoptic Syllabus

Medical Studies
A wide ranging study area which covers the pathology, clinical
skills, clinical methods and diagnosis. It also covers detailed study
of neurology orthopaedics and other medically relevant
subjects.

Osteopathic Technique
A comprehensive range of techniques utilised by professional
osteopaths for the treatment of wide ranging clinical
presentations is studied. Specialised techniques for the
treatment of children, pregnant women, the elderly or those
with chronic conditions which require specialised care are
also taught.

Osteopathic History, Principles and Philosophy

Students will learn about the historical background of
osteopathy and its importance within the healthcare system.
By understanding the philosophy and principles which
underpin Osteopathy, students will be able to adapt and
apply to care for patients with wide ranging presentations.

Osteopathic Clinical Practice

Students will be involved in the care and treatment of patients
in a supervised clinical environment. Initially undertaking clinical
observation of osteopathic treatments, and progressing
through team work to finally taking responsibility for and
managing their own patients. Students must show commitment
to, and professional responsibility for, undertaking the
clinical care of patients and be prepared to do so at
times outside of the teaching weekends. The individual’s
actual attendance will be timetabled in advance at the
beginning of each academic year.

Dissertation
No research dissertation is required for this Higher Diploma,
however once degree accreditation has been achieved a
dissertation will be required from students wishing to obtain
Masters degree level.
Fees and Schedule

Cost
The cost of the Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine (H. Dip.Ost.) programme is €4,890.00 per
year

Payment Options
You can secure a place on the programme by paying a non-refundable deposit of
€1,890.00. The balance of fees can be paid using a variety of options, some of which lead to discounts.

OPTION 1
A single payment of €2,810.00 two weeks prior to the start date for each year. This leads to a discount
of €190.00 per annum. The deposit for each subsequent year would be paid by weekend 18 with the
balance again payable two weeks before the start date for each year.

OPTION 2 - Standard Route

(5 Year Pathway)
60 monthly Direct Debit payments of €376.00

Schedule - Year One 2011

March 2011 19th, 20th

April 2011 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 30th

May 2011 1st, 14th, 15th, 28th, 29th

June 2011 4th, 5th, 25th, 26th

July 2011 9th, 10th, 23rd, 24th

September 2011 10th, 11th, 24th, 25th

October 2011 8th, 9th, 22nd, 23rd

November 2011 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th

December 2011 3rd, 4th, 17th, 18th

January 2012 7th, 8th, 21st, 22nd

February 2012 4th, 5th, 18th, 19th

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to hold any other qualification in order to participate on this programme ?

All applicants need to have a keen interest in working in a para-medical profession, and a commitment
to upholding the professional standards and expectations of osteopathy. They need to be able to offer
commitment to participation on this programme which has been designed to fit in with the busy
schedules of working individuals.
Standard Route (5 Years)
Enrollment is available to persons
without a professional qualification as
the course covers all the required
elements of anatomy and physiology
for practice. Ideal applicants include
anyone interested in the care of
patients.

Students are expected to hold the

Leaving Certificate (or equivalent)
with a minimum of grade B
(Ordinary Level) or grade C (Higher
Level) in a science subject, preferably
Chemistry.

APEL Route (3 Years)

We hope shortly to offer enrollment
to those with a professional
qualification of at least diploma level
in an associated area. Although
Leaving Certificate with a science
subject is highly desirable, each
application from qualified
professionals will be considered
individually.

What will I be qualified to do when I complete this course successfully ?

On successful completion you will be a qualified Osteopath and as such will be professionally
competent to offer professional services in osteopathy. Currently there are no restrictions to practising
as an Osteopath in Ireland. ICOM will undertake accreditation with whichever body becomes the
official regulator to ensure our students are entitled to practice in Ireland. 
Will I be able to get a job in a pain/sports injury clinic or in a hospital ?
Qualified Osteopaths generally work within multi-disciplinary injury clinics where therapists such as
chiropractors, physical therapists, physiotherapists, Neuromuscular therapists etc. offer a variety of pain
and injury solutions. This multi-disciplinary model normally consists of a great deal of cross referral
whereby therapists refer patients to each other, depending on the therapists individual area of
expertise, and, having determined which treatment model is likely to offer the best solution, decide
collectively on the best approach. Individual Osteopaths can establish a G.P. referral scheme in
conjunction with a local medical practitioner whereby the doctor will refer patients with appropriate
symptoms to the Osteopath and using the skills gained through the qualification process, the
Osteopath can refer their patients to the doctor when Osteopathy may not be appropriate. Graduates
who hold an existing medical qualification, in nursing for example, may find that they can combine their
new skills with their existing skill set within the hospital environment.

Are there many jobs available for graduates at present ?

Most Osteopaths operate in a self employed capacity either as sole traders, as part of a multi-
disciplinary clinical team, or with a variety of sporting teams. There are many opportunities for qualified
Osteopaths as individuals increasingly look outside of traditional medical disciplines for solutions to
their health problems and as Osteopathy is a complementary discipline and 100% science based, its
appeal is broad. It must be pointed out that as with all professional qualifications at all levels, graduate
appeal to patients will be result driven and their success from a business viewpoint will be in
proportion to the time, effort and dedication they are prepared to offer their profession. Many
National Training Centre graduates have started their careers on a part-time basis and have seen this
aspect of their professional life overtake their full time career to become their primary or only
occupation and source of income.

How much will I earn as a qualified Osteopath ?

The recommended fee for each treatment session is between €60.00 and €120.00. Your full earning
potential will be determined by the number of sessions you decide to complete each week.

Will I need to get insurance ?

The codes of ethics of the Irish College of Osteopathic Medicine insist that all Osteopathy graduates
who are actively working in the profession, hold a professional indemnity insurance policy which covers
the Osteopath against legal action taken by a patient as a result of an injury received during treatment.
Osteopaths who are working on private premises may also need to hold public liability insurance.

On completion of this course can I practice as an Osteopath in Ireland?

Yes. Currently there is no restriction to practising as an Osteopath in Ireland. ICOM will undertake
accreditation with whichever body becomes the official regulator to ensure our students are entitled
to practice in Ireland.

Is this qualification accepted internationally ?

Depending on the country, usually yes, however the exception is the UK. Practice as an osteopath in
the UK is regulated by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC), any person(s) wishing to practice in
the UK who has not attended a school or college accredited by the GOsC has to make an individual
application to the GOsC. For more information on registration with the GOsC go to
www.osteopathy.org.uk. Other European countries each have different levels of acceptance for
practice; it would be advisable for you to check directly with the country for yourself prior to
undertaking your study. 
I am a qualified therapist in a different field can I practice my osteopathic skills on my patients whilst
studying?
It would be inadvisable to do so. In the UK it is illegal for any individual who is not a registered
Osteopath to undertake osteopathic treatment of patients, a similar situation will be expected in
Ireland and ICOM does not condone the use by students of osteopathic techniques on patients /
clients unless carried out in the Student Clinic or other accepted supervised osteopathic practice.   

Is this course similar to those offered in the UK?

Yes. Whilst this course maintains the core content and standards of those offered in the UK, it is a
course specifically designed for the Irish and European markets and will therefore take into
consideration the needs of these students in their study.      

What is an Undergraduate Masters?

In order to facilitate movement of students across Europe, the Bologna Accord was developed by
participating countries. The Accord aims to standardise degrees across Europe, it states that
undergraduate Bachelor degrees should be at least 3 years in length, with a 1 or 2 year diploma added
at the end to achieve the Undergraduate Masters degree. A dissertation is required for the Masters
programmes.  

How long does this course last ?

The Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine (H. Dip. Ost.) is available as a part-time weekend
course.The duration of the programme is 5 years. We also hope to offer a shorter three year route
for those with relevant pre-existing qualification.

How much does this course cost ?

The Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine (H. Dip. Ost.) costs €4,890.00 per year. There is a
€190.00 per year discount available to students who pay course fees in full prior to the start of each
study year.

Can I pay by installments ?

Yes - students can opt to pay a deposit of €1,890.00 and sixty monthly direct debit installments of
€376.00 for the standard five year route.

Where is this course available ?

The Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine (H. Dip. Ost.) is available at the Irish College of
Osteopathic Medicine which is located at the National Training Centre in Dublin.

How will I be assessed ?

Students of the Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine (H. Dip. Ost.) are assessed through written
and practical demonstration examination and clinical assessments on patients. A small amount of final
examination marks may be achieved through continual assessment throughout the course.

What age group participate on this course ?

Students of all ages participate on the Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine (H. Dip. Ost.)

How much of the course is practical and how much is theory ?

The Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine (H. Dip. Ost.) comprises approximately 40% theory and
60% hands-on practical tutorials. Most tutorial sessions will contain both theory and practical aspects.

When will this course be accredited to degree level?

The course we are offering is a degree level Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine. ICOM is
currently in discussion with the relevant Irish authorities, for the validation of the diploma to the
Undergraduate Masters Degree status.  We are awaiting information regarding the accreditation
process and timeframe. We have also commenced the process required to achieve accreditation via
U.K. institutions so that we can be very confident in obtaining international accreditation whether in
Ireland or the U.K. The Higher Diploma in Osteopathic Medicine is written to the same standards as a
Masters degree.

What are the expected contact hours for this course?

The teaching programme will include attendance of 2 to 3 weekends per month in Dublin. However,
the nature of the course requires that students will undertake the minimum number of home study
hours which will be directed per module. The clinical phase of the course will require a minimum of
1000 hours of clinical attendance in the student teaching clinic. This will be timetabled for attendance
during the week / weekends or in the evenings. Students will be informed of their timetabling before
the start of the appropriate academic year.  

What does the clinical training involve?

The clinical phase of the course will require a minimum of 1000 hours of clinical attendance in the
student teaching clinic. Students will observe or undertake the treatment of real patients under the
supervision of qualified and registered osteopaths. Student clinical practice will be timetabled for
attendance during the week / weekends or in the evenings. Students will be informed of their
timetabling before the start of the appropriate academic year.
Location

The Irish College of Osteopathic Medicine is conveniently located close to Dublin’s city centre. ICOM
can be reached using many Dublin Bus routes including 3, 10, 11, 13, 16, 33, 40, 41, 121, 122 and is just
a five minute walk from O’ Connell Street.
 15-16 Saint Joseph’s Parade, Dorset Street, Dublin 7
Telephone: 01 882 7777 Fax: 01 830 8757 Email: icom@ntc.ie Web: www.ntc.ie
© 2010, Irish College of Osteopathic Medicine