About the program/cycle of studies

According to Order nº 207-B/2014 of 8 October:

1. The Osteopathy is a therapy that aims to differentially diagnose, treat and prevent neuro-musculo-skeletal disorders and other related changes, using a variety of techniques and other related manuals needed for a good osteopathic performance to improve physiological functions and or the regulation of homeostasis that can be altered by somatic disorders, neuro-musculo-skeletal and vascular elements, and related neural and lymphatic elements.

2. The Osteopathy:

a) has a systemic approach of care and is based on the concept that the human being is a dynamic functional unit, in which all parts are interconnected and has inherent mechanisms of self-regulation and self-healing;

b) Respects the relationship between the different dimensions of the human being, in sickness and in health;

c) Emphasizes the structural and functional integrity of the human body and its intrinsic ability for self-healing;

d) Gives special attention to the biomechanics of the neuro-musculoskeletal system and its relationship with the physiology of the organism;

e) It has as essential intervention components the structural diagnosis, the manipulative treatment and others necessary to a good osteopathic performance.

The general objective proposed for the cycle of studies is to enable the acquisition of knowledge, skills and attitudes to promote the acquisition of skills based on the scientific evidence, necessary for the effective performance of the functions of the Osteopath, with responsibility, professionalism and autonomy.

In this context, the specific objectives focus on 3 main areas: cognitive - to demonstrate the knowledge of the structure and workings of the human body and to be able to identify the situations of dysfunction and pathology; psychomotor – to demonstrate the ability to perform a set of evaluation techniques and therapeutic intervention relating to the different affected structures and movements, with the purpose of the restoration of its functionality; and affective – to demonstrate the ability and autonomy in decision making during your response and clinical reasoning based on evidence-based practice.

Course accredited by A3ES on the 29^th June 2016

 

Academic Degree

Polytechnic Education, Bachelor’s Degree, 1^st cycle of studies leading to a Bachelor’s degree, ISCED Level 5.

 

Entry requirements

International applicants for admission and enrolment in the Bachelor's degree and Integrated Masters, must:

• hold a qualification granting them access to higher education, such as a diploma or certificate issued by a competent authority which attests to the successful completion of an educational programme and authorises them to apply for and enrol in higher education in the country where it was conferred; or
• hold a secondary education degree legally equivalent to the Portuguese secondary education.

Under the regulations for international students, candidates must take an exam at CESPU. (Decree-Law no. 36/2014).

 

Type of recognition

The holder of a Bachelor’s degree in Osteopathy provides the framework for independent and autonomous professional practice, in accordance with the order no. 172-E/2015 of 5^th June. The osteopath can carry out professional duties in institutions of health care, both public and private. You can also develop research activities.

 

Course duration

4 years - 8 semesters - 240 ECTS