Health Sciences - Complementary Therapies: University of Westminster

Introduction

The principles and philosophies of mind-body medicine and energy psychology underpin this course’s approach to complementary therapies. These principles, together with practice and research that is currently taking place worldwide, provide the basis for this professional entry course.

The course is aimed at those seeking a career in or developing their existing practice in complementary therapies, and it provides a practice-orientated education in a range of complementary therapies based on therapeutic approaches using touch and holistic thinking. Those approaches can include aromatherapy, healing, reflexology, remedial and sports massage, shiatsu, Thai yoga massage and therapeutic massage.

On successful completion of the appropriate modules graduates can apply for membership and insurance to practice with the following professional bodies: Aromatherapy and Allied Practitioners Association, Association of Therapeutic Healers, Institute of Sport and Remedial Massage, International Federation of Reflexology.

Course Content

The course is structured to support your intellectual, professional and practical skills development. Much of this is achieved through the use of themes that run through the modules and across levels. So in addition to the specific knowledge and skills required in Complementary Therapies the course integrates clinical skills development, health sciences, personal and professional development and research skills. Your development as a scholar practitioner comes together in the University’s innovative Polyclinic where, under the guidance of experienced clinic tutors, your learning from the various aspects of the course is integrated.

In Foundation course you will study biology, physiology, chemistry, cell biology, numeracy and information technology, study and communication skills and health studies. The course will ease your transition into full time study and a subsequent career in complementary medicine. All modules will introduce and integrate transferable skills into your learning to enable you to develop the essential communication skills that will be required for your studies and subsequent career in complementary medicine. The eight modules studied in this Foundation course would normally be taken in one year. However, as with all modular degree courses, flexibility is possible in the time taken to accumulate the modules and credits that lead up to the award. This flexibility, along with the wide choice of subject areas available within the School makes this Foundation course particularly attractive to mature students.

Associated Careers

The majority of students join this course with the intention of becoming practitioners. Modules are available to help with establishing your own practice and to be well prepared to work as an independent professional. The strong underpinning in health science, reflective practice and research provides a sound preparation for a range of other careers including health and social policy research, healthcare management and teaching. Graduates may also progress to postgraduate study.

Entry Requirements

• Qualification type Grade/points
• A Levels CCD to include Biology at Grade C
• International Baccalaureate 26 points to include a minimum of 5 in Biology at Higher Level
• BTEC National Diploma/Certificate MMP/DM in Science
• GCSE CC in double award Science
• Equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience will also be considered