Requirements and Target Group
The part-time Master's degree programme in Osteopathy (M.Sc.) at Hochschule Fresenius is aimed at already qualified and experienced therapists from the fields of osteopathy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or human medicine. The programme is designed for working professionals who wish to deepen their osteopathic competencies scientifically and further qualify themselves in order to take on responsibilities in practice, teaching, or research, or to collaborate in interprofessional teams. This course of study is especially suitable for individuals seeking an academically grounded and practice-oriented postgraduate programme to specifically expand their own profile and prospects in the healthcare sector.
What are the formal admission requirements?
You need one of the following degrees as an access requirement:
- Completed Bachelor's degree in Osteopathy with 240 ECTS
- Degree in a health or social sciences Bachelor’s programme (for example Physiotherapy or Occupational Therapy) with 240 ECTS or a completed medical degree AND at least four years of osteopathic further training
If you have obtained a relevant Bachelor's degree with fewer than 240 ECTS or if you are a medical doctor and the osteopathic further training lasted less than four years, your qualification will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Further information on special regulations is available from the academic advising service at Hochschule Fresenius.
You should already have practical experience in the field of osteopathy or a related therapeutic area. Analytical thinking skills, a sense of responsibility in dealing with patients, as well as an interest in scientific research and interdisciplinary collaboration are important. Communication skills, empathy, and the willingness to work independently will support your success in studying and working in osteopathy.
Study Content in Detail: What Competences Does the Master’s in Osteopathy Impart?
In the part-time Master’s programme in Osteopathy, you deepen your understanding of osteopathic diagnostics and therapy across all age groups. The curriculum combines scientific-theoretical and methodological basics, clinical application, and interdisciplinary perspectives. Key contents include:
- Theory of science and ethics in osteopathy
- Information management and scientific project work
- Pediatric and gynaecological osteopathy – including research and treatment techniques relating to pregnancy, childbirth, and childhood
- Adapted osteopathic examination and treatment techniques for various age groups and stages of life
- Clinical diagnostics, palpation and movement analysis (qualitative and quantitative)
- Basics of sports medicine, performance diagnostics, anti-doping and nutrition
- Theory of cultural-medical meaning-making, philosophy of culture and ethics
- Environmental analysis of the child and observation internship
- Fundamentals of fascia research
The practical training is complemented by interprofessional collaboration, giving you learning opportunities to plan and implement therapies together with other health professions. In cooperation with the Verband der Osteopathen Deutschland e.V., you also have the opportunity to acquire the certificate “Kinderosteopathie” (Paediatric Osteopathy).
Course Structure: How Is the Part-Time Study Organised?
The Master’s in Osteopathy at Hochschule Fresenius is modular and spans three semesters (standard period of study: 18 months, 60 ECTS). The programme is offered part-time, allowing you to flexibly combine study and work. Attendance sessions usually take place on weekends or in block phases at the study locations. Practical phases, internships and scientific projects are integrated into the curriculum.
Key points about the structure:
- Standard period of study: 3 semesters
- Organisation: part-time, attendance on selected days (e.g. weekends)
- Practical units: observation internship, working in interdisciplinary teams
- Degree: Master of Science
- Start of studies: annually in the winter semester
- Language of instruction: German
For optimal study organisation, you benefit from the StudyPLUS programme, which offers additional language courses, workshops on personal and career development, as well as numerous networking and internationalisation opportunities.
Career Prospects & Job Opportunities: What Opportunities Does the M.Sc. Osteopathy Offer You?
As an osteopath with a Master’s degree, you open up diverse professional development paths:
- Leadership roles in osteopathic practices or interdisciplinary therapy centres
- Specialisation and expert status (e.g. paediatric osteopathy, sports osteopathy)
- Teaching and training at (specialist) schools, universities or continuing education institutions
- Participation in osteopathic research, development of new therapy concepts and publication of scientific studies
- Health journalism and editorial work in the health sector (e.g. as an author for health magazines, publishers, blogs)
Interdisciplinary work and close cooperation with other health professions expand your areas of activity, for example in rehabilitation, prevention or corporate health management.
Study Locations: Where Does the Master’s in Osteopathy Take Place?
The programme is offered at the campuses in Cologne (North Rhine-Westphalia) and Munich (Bavaria). Each location offers modern teaching and practice rooms as well as networked connections to the regional health sector. Attendance dates are coordinated according to the chosen location.
- Cologne: Central location in MediaPark, close to numerous leisure activities, excellently accessible by public transport
- Munich: Campus Gesundheit & Soziales on Charles-de-Gaulle-Straße, pleasant learning environment and good infrastructure
The part-time structure allows you to complete the programme at your preferred location and, if necessary (after consultation), also to change locations.
Costs and Financing: How Much Does the Programme Cost and What Funding Options Are Available?
The Master’s in Osteopathy entails monthly tuition fees of 475 euros, so the total costs over three semesters amount to 8,550 euros. Additionally, a one-time registration fee of 250 euros is charged. The fees include all study materials, access to the Osteothek, practical and additional offers in the StudyPLUS programme as well as individual study support.
Various financing options are available:
- BAföG – also possible in individual cases for part-time study formats
- Scholarships – awarded by Hochschule Fresenius or third-party institutions
- Student loans – e.g. KfW student loan, educational funds
- Employer sponsorships and continuing education grants – support from practice or clinic employers
The study advising team at Hochschule Fresenius provides individual advice on financing options and supports you with applications or selecting a suitable funding opportunity.
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