First College’s Manual Osteopathic Therapy (MOT) program (1,344 hours) is a comprehensive one-year diploma designed to provide extensive practical knowledge and hands-on clinical experience. The program includes over 480 hours of practice, 288 hours of in-class instruction, and 576 hours of self-paced learning, ensuring you are well-prepared for a career in healthcare. Specific dates and schedules will be announced soon.
As a manual osteopathic therapist, you’ll enter one of Canada’s fastest-growing healthcare fields. In British Columbia, graduates have various career opportunities, from starting a private practice to working within multidisciplinary healthcare teams. This flexibility allows you to shape your career to fit your personal and professional goals.
Upon graduation, you will complete a final exam at First College, and we will report your completion to CMMOTA to obtain your MOT certification.
What are your future opportunities?
Embark on a fulfilling career with the potential to earn over $100 per hour as a Manual Osteopathic Therapist (MOT). This competitive earning potential reflects the high demand for MOTs in the health and wellness industries, underscoring their essential role in patient care and rehabilitation.
What will you receive?
Manual Osteopathic Therapy (MOT) Program Diploma: Upon completion, you will be awarded a diploma that signifies your comprehensive knowledge, advanced skills, and readiness to excel in the field of manual osteopathic therapy.
Get in touch with an admissions advisor for more information!
The Manual Osteopathic Therapy (MOT) program Program is being approving by the PTIRU of the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills & Training.
The Registered Massage Therapy Program at First College has been awarded accreditation by The Canadian Massage and Manual Osteopathic Therapists Association (CMMOTA) on March 03, 2025
Understanding Manual Osteopathic Therapy (MOT)
What is MOT: Manual Osteopathic Therapy is a non-invasive, hands-on health care discipline that focuses on the interrelationship between structure and function of the body. By treating the body’s dysfunctions, MOT aims to restore each patient to a state of balanced health.
How Does It Work: MOT practitioners use a thorough intake and hands-on assessments to identify dysfunctional patterns in the body that may manifest as pain or discomfort. Treatment involves a variety of techniques tailored to address specific ailments, including:
- Muscle Energy Techniques: These are used to balance musculoskeletal restrictions affecting both skeletal alignment and muscle function.
- Joint and Fascial Mobilizations: Techniques to release "stuck" joints and improve range of motion through soft tissue and fascial manipulation.
- Myofascial Remodeling: This method releases fascial restrictions and adhesions, enhancing circulation.
- Lymphatic Techniques: Aimed at improving fluid flow, these techniques help release congested areas, enhancing immunity.
- Cranial Sacral Techniques: These improve the mobility of cranial bones and other skeletal structures, aiding the function of the central nervous system and fluid circulation.
- Visceral Techniques: Focus on improving the mobility and function of body organs.
Goals of MOT: The primary goal of Manual Osteopathic Therapy is to harness the body’s innate healing abilities, recognizing that:
- The body operates as a cohesive unit.
- The musculoskeletal structure profoundly influences function.
- The body naturally strives to maintain its own health and balance.
Program Information and Application
Admission requirements, application package and more!
Admissions Requirements
Educational Qualifications:
- A diploma, advanced diploma, or Baccalaureate/Bachelor’s degree in a health discipline (e.g., nursing, massage therapy, physiotherapy, primary/advanced care paramedicine, occupational therapy) or in a physical sciences field with an emphasis on human anatomy and physiology.
- Prior to acceptance applicants must meet at leastone of the following language proficiency requirements:
- Completion of 2 years of secondary education (including English 10 and 11 with a grade of ‘C’ or higher) from a country where English is one of the principal languages, or
- Completion of 2 years of full-time post-secondary education at an accredited institution where English is the language of instruction, or
- For international students: Provide verified results for one of the English language proficiency tests listed below. Test results must be dated no more than two years before the start date of the program.
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic: overall score of 5.5 or higher.
- Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP): Listening 7, Speaking 7, Reading 6, and Writing 6.
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) IBT: Minimum overall score of 46
- Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL) : Minimum overall score of 40
Application Components:
2. Application Essay (Max 500 words): Please provide an essay that addresses the following:
- Why do you want to be a Manual Osteopathic Therapist?
- Your experiences, if any, related to manual osteopathic therapy
3. Two Character Reference Letters: Letters that speak to your character and potential in the profession.
4. Your Current Resume: Detailing your educational background, work experience, and relevant skills.
5. A Criminal Record Check Clearance (CRC):
- Must be obtained from the B.C. Ministry of Public Safety and the Solicitor General’s Criminal Records Review Office.
- Criminal Record Check with Code: SJEVKCH8MU
6. Valid First Aid & CPR-C Certification
To register for the MOT Program, please email info@firstcollege.ca to begin your application process!
