BA (Hons) Complementary Therapies
When can you start this course? | UCAS code | Fees | Course length | Entry requirements
Why choose this course?
It's a practice-based course that's accredited by three professional bodies: the Association of Reflexologists, the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists and the Shiatsu Society.
About the course
You can study this course over three years full time or five years part time.
You'll analyse the theory and practice of healing methods which support traditional medicine. It covers subjects that are central to the theory and practice of complementary therapies, such as Tai Chi, massage, anatomy, physiology, research and counselling. You will also take a specialist pathway in either Holistic Massage (Aromatherapy and Reflexology) or Shiatsu.
In all pathways, we focus on academic and experiential learning and you'll have a work placement in your final year.
The International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists and the Association of Reflexologists have accredited the generic modules and the Holistic Massage pathway.
The generic modules and the Shiatsu pathway assessments are ratified by the Shiatsu Society. So which ever pathway you take, you'll be able to apply to join and practice as a member of one or two professional associations.
Find out more about what subjects and modules you'll be studying...Your career

"After I graduated I went straight into a job at a hospice near Wigan, which I really enjoy. I use both my therapies - aromatherapy and reflexology - to help them relax and cope better. I feel really privileged to be working with the people there."
Jenny Charlton
Complementary therapies are an expanding growth area in private and public healthcare. Your proficiency will be illustrated by your membership of a recognised professional body.
What our students say

"As a sprightly 36 year old when I began my BA in Complementary Therapies, I re-entered the education system with some trepidation after a break longer than I would care to mention! However what I experienced has made the last three years some of the most enjoyable of my life. I have grown immensely as a person and feel very grateful for the opportunity to learn with some great lecturers and students."
Graduate, Shiatsu pathway
"..it was truly the best thing I ever chose to do!!"
Graduate, Holistic Massage pathway
How you'll learn
Workshops, practical tuition, lectures, seminars
How you're assessed
Practical assessments, essays, case study portfolios, learning journals
Work placements
There is a placement in the final year.
Start dates
If you're from the UK or EU you can apply to study this course in:
- September 2010 (part time only, if available)
- September 2011
See a list of courses we are still taking applications for in September 2010.
If you're from a country outside the EU you can apply to study this course full time in:
- September 2010
- September 2011
UCAS code
B300
Fees *
UK/EU students
- Full time: £3,290 (per year)
- Part time: £270 per single module (you usually take 24 of these modules in total)
International students
- Full time: £8,500 (per year)
*These fees apply if you're starting this course between September 2010 and August 2011. We recommend you check fee details with us though, as they can change. Costs can increase each year and there may be extra costs eg for exams, trips or special modules.
Course length
Full time: 3 years
Part time: 5 years
Entry requirements
Our entry requirements are usually 160-180 UCAS points from A levels, or equivalent ...


