Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Osteopathy different from other forms of manual therapy?
I heard that Osteopaths use techniques that other practitioners use, how is it different?
Is the program full-time or part-time?
How many years is the program?
Is October the only time your program begins?
What is the student-to-teacher ratio?
What type of academic presentation is typical at the CAO? Do I take notes as in a lecture hall environment?
How do I apply?
Are there any student loans available?
What makes Osteopathy different from other forms of manual therapy?
Osteopathy is a holistic system of healthcare based on the dynamic interrelationships of a person’s functional anatomy and the corresponding effects on their physiology. Osteopathy should not be defined by its manual techniques but rather the application of its philosophy.
I heard that Osteopaths use techniques that other practitioners use, how is it different?
The Osteopathic philosophy and understanding on how to best utilize and integrate the various manual techniques is what clearly defines Osteopathy. Techniques are most certainly taught at the CAO, but we believe it is most important to learn how these approaches all fit together in a treatment plan. The approaches chosen for treatment are done so only after careful evaluation, guided by Osteopathic reasoning.
Is the program full-time or part-time?
The curriculum is considered full-time, but it is offered in a modified attendance format. This means that students come to the CAO for classes 5 consecutive days a month (Wednesday to Sunday) during their classroom semester each year. This enables students to continue to work full-time as they study.
How many years is the program?
This is a 4 + 1 year program. Classroom modules take place over 4 years. The practical training and the required thesis can also be completed in this time. But, there is the option to do a 5th year if you need more time to complete your practical training or to finish your thesis. The optional 5th year is tuition exempt.
Is October the only time your program begins?
No. The school runs year round offering winter and summer semesters. Students can begin the program in October or in April. If you choose the winter semester for classes to start, you complete your practical training in the summer semester. If you choose the summer semester for classes, you complete your practical training in the winter semester. Class dates are fixed, practical training is flexible. Students choose their start dates for classroom/practical based on whichever time of year is better suited for each component.
What is the student-to-teacher ratio?
This is a major strength of the CAO. There is always at least 1 professor and 1 teaching assistant per 20 students, however, most often there are more teaching assistants available. Typically, there is a 1:4 to 1:6 teacher-to-student ratio which is extremely important for the students to have individualized attention.
What type of academic presentation is typical at the CAO? Do I take notes as in a lecture hall environment?
Some students choose to take notes, but it is often not necessary, as handouts are given for most lectures and many lectures are already fully scribed. Each time you participate in a module, notes and digital materials are given to you. These items are included in your tuition fee, and there are no additional charges for these materials.
How do I apply?
Applying is easy. Simply fill out the online application, which can be found on our admissions page. Interviews take place all year long for both the fall and spring start dates and are accepted on a first come, first served basis.
Are there any student loans available?
OSAP is not available to students as the CAO is a private college, however, many banks do offer educational loans for programs such as these.