University College of Osteopathy

University College of Osteopathy (UCO), formerly known as the British School of Osteopathy, is a higher education institution in London, United Kingdom, specializing in osteopathic education and research. It is the oldest and one of the most respected osteopathic colleges in the world, offering undergraduate and postgraduate education in osteopathy. The UCO is recognized for its comprehensive curriculum, which combines theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experience, preparing students for professional practice in the field of osteopathy.

History[edit | edit source]

The University College of Osteopathy was established in 1917 by John Martin Littlejohn, a pioneer in the field of osteopathy. Littlejohn's vision was to create an institution that would provide rigorous academic and clinical training in osteopathy, ensuring high standards of practice. Over the years, the college has evolved, changing its name from the British School of Osteopathy to the University College of Osteopathy to reflect its university college status and its broad range of academic offerings.

Programs[edit | edit source]

The UCO offers a variety of programs aimed at different levels of osteopathic education, including:

Bachelor of Osteopathy (BOst) - A full-time undergraduate program that provides students with a thorough grounding in osteopathic theory and practice.
Master of Osteopathy (MOst) - An integrated undergraduate program that leads to a master's degree, offering an advanced understanding of osteopathic medicine.
Postgraduate courses in osteopathy - These courses are designed for practicing osteopaths who wish to further their knowledge and skills in specialized areas of the field.

Clinical Services[edit | edit source]

The UCO operates a public clinic that serves as a teaching facility for its students while providing affordable osteopathic treatment to the community. The clinic offers a range of services, including general osteopathic treatment, sports injury treatment, and specialized clinics for children, pregnant women, and the elderly.

Research[edit | edit source]

Research is a key component of the UCO's mission, with a focus on advancing the evidence base for osteopathy and improving patient care. The institution supports a range of research activities, including clinical trials, systematic reviews, and qualitative studies in areas such as chronic pain, musculoskeletal health, and osteopathic education.

Accreditation[edit | edit source]

The University College of Osteopathy is accredited by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC), the regulatory body for osteopathy in the UK. This accreditation ensures that the UCO's programs meet the high standards required for osteopathic education and practice in the UK.

Alumni[edit | edit source]

The UCO boasts a network of successful alumni who have made significant contributions to the field of osteopathy and healthcare in general. Alumni are involved in clinical practice, research, education, and leadership roles within the osteopathic profession and beyond.