Health Sciences University
Health Sciences University (HSU) is a leading specialist institution dedicated to training the next generation of healthcare and sporting professionals through cutting-edge education, hands-on clinical practice, and pioneering research. Offering a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, apprenticeships and short courses, HSU draws upon the esteemed legacies of its founding institutions—AECC University College (AECC UC) and the University College of Osteopathy (UCO). With campuses in Bournemouth and London, the university delivers an exceptional learning experience across multiple health sciences disciplines.
HISTORY OF HEALTH SCIENCES UNIVERSITY
HSU is a specialist health sciences university that brings together a rich heritage of expertise in health sciences education. HSU's academic schools provide specialist training across key healthcare disciplines:
• The AECC School of Chiropractic, founded in 1965, has played a leading role in shaping modern chiropractic education in Europe.
• The UCO School of Osteopathy, with a history spanning over 100 years, is the UK’s oldest and largest provider of osteopathic education.
• The School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences offers courses in medical imaging, radiotherapy, sport and exercise performance, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, podiatry, speech and language therapy, dietetics, psychology, and mental health.
• Health Business School, situated in the heart of London, HSU's Health Business School is dedicated to advancing healthcare management.
• Centre for Workforce and Systems Innovation, supports workforce transformation, offering comprehensive professional development programmes for healthcare professionals, healthcare educators, healthcare leaders and policymakers.
Leaders in Health Sciences
HSU attracts world-class educators, researchers, and clinicians from across the globe, ensuring that its students are taught by highly qualified professionals in radiography, physiotherapy, anatomy, psychology, sports science, osteopathy, and more. Many faculty members actively contribute to research, patient care, and healthcare policy, maintaining strong links to the NHS and regulatory bodies.
With a global reputation, HSU continues to shape the future of healthcare education, equipping its students with the skills, experience, and confidence to make a lasting impact in their chosen career.
SPECIALIST AREAS AT HEALTH SCIENCES UNIVERSITY
As part of HSU, these schools contribute to a wider ecosystem of healthcare education, delivering undergraduate, postgraduate, apprenticeships and professional courses designed to prepare students for careers in healthcare, rehabilitation, and sport sciences.
At both the Bournemouth and London campuses, students benefit from an education that is:
• World-class: Delivered by leading academics, clinicians, and researchers.
• Hands-on: Offering access to specialist facilities and real-world placements.
• Internationally connected: Attracting students and faculty from diverse educational and professional backgrounds, including science, chiropractic, osteopathy, sport, physiotherapy, medicine, exercise science, nursing, and radiography.
Courses and lecturers
Courses at HSU are designed to provide students with the expertise, practical skills, and confidence needed to thrive in their chosen healthcare or sporting profession. Taught by expert practitioners, researchers, and industry leaders, HSU's courses bring real-world experience directly into the classroom.
With structured timetables that support a healthy balance between study, work, and personal commitments, HSU offers an exceptional learning experience through its three distinct schools:
AECC School of Chiropractic
With over 60 years of leading chiropractic education, the AECC School of Chiropractic is recognised for its commitment to advancing the profession. The school’s teaching is firmly grounded in evidence-based practice principles, equipping graduates with the expertise and skills to deliver exceptional patient care.
Students benefit from:
• Expert-led teaching and personalised support
• Immersive clinical placements on campus
• A strong focus on practical skills and hands-on experience
School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
The School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences offers a vibrant and inclusive learning environment, bringing together a diverse range of disciplines, including:
- Medical imaging and radiotherapy
- Sport, exercise, and performance
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational therapy
- Podiatry
- Speech and language therapy
- Dietetics
- Psychology, and mental health
Through collaborative learning opportunities, students work alongside peers from other disciplines, gaining a holistic understanding of patient care. Real-world experience is at the core of learning, with placements in hospitals, clinics, professional organisations, and community settings. On-campus placements at our Bournemouth campus also provide opportunities to work in multidisciplinary teams, delivering patient care alongside physiotherapists, radiographers, chiropractors, podiatrists, dietitians, and more.
UCO School of Osteopathy
As the UK’s oldest and largest provider of osteopathic education, the UCO School of Osteopathy brings over 100 years of specialist expertise.
Students benefit from:
• Exceptional teaching from leading osteopathy experts
• Hands-on clinical placements
• A strong mentorship culture with experienced practitioners and educators
Courses With a Foundation Year: Unlock Your Career in Healthcare
For students who don’t meet standard entry requirements or are considering a career change, HSU's Courses with a Foundation Year offer a direct pathway into health sciences degrees. Available at both Bournemouth and London campuses, it includes:
• A tailored curriculum aligned with the chosen discipline, from chiropractic and osteopathy to radiography, psychology, and sports performance
• A supportive learning environment with dedicated academic guidance
• The opportunity to showcase the work, such as presenting an Extended Project at a professional poster event
Apprenticeships: Learn and Earn
For those seeking an alternative to traditional degrees, HSU offers expanding healthcare apprenticeships that combine academic learning with hands-on training. Covering undergraduate to master’s level, these courses help tackle workforce shortages while providing real-world experience under expert guidance and supervision.
Whether starting on a journey, advancing a career, or looking for a practical route into healthcare, HSU helps to equip students with the skills, experience, and confidence to succeed in fast-evolving healthcare professions.
LIFE ON CAMPUS
HSU is dedicated to empowering every student to achieve their full potential, providing both academic progress and personal development. Education is guided by academic experts and leading professionals in health sciences. HSU's lectures, practical sessions, and research opportunities are designed to provide:
- In-depth knowledge: Delivered by specialists with real-world expertise, ensuring learning is relevant and up to date.
- Career-focused preparation: Equipping students with the tools and insights needed to excel in professional health environments.
HSU provides an environment where students engage with the latest advancements in health sciences. Its commitment to research and specialisation means that students will:
- Be exposed to innovations that shape the future of healthcare.
- Develop the skills needed to address emerging health challenges in society.
- Gain hands-on experience that prepares them to step into the professional world with confidence.
Graduates of HSU are fully prepared to excel and lead in the dynamic and evolving health and sporting industries. Armed with relevant experience, practical skills, and a deep understanding of contemporary healthcare challenges, HSU students are ready to make an immediate impact in their chosen fields.
STUDENT SUPPORT AT HEALTH SCIENCES UNIVERSITY
HSU is committed to providing students with the guidance, resources, and support they need to thrive academically and personally. Every student’s journey is unique, so HSU's dedicated student services team offers a range of services to meet a range of needs, including:
- Study Skills Support: Offering help with writing, presentation preparation, time management, and more.
- Financial Guidance: Students can access advice on managing finances, funding studies, and exploring available resources.
- Career Development: Offering expert career advice and jobs guidance to help students prepare for life after university.
- Mental Health and Wellbeing: Wellbeing Advisers and counselling services provide confidential support to help students build resilience and succeed. With daily triage appointments and a 24/7 helpline, help is always available when its needed.
To ensure every student feels empowered and supported, HSU offer additional specialised services:
- Wellbeing Officer: Providing confidential guidance and practical strategies to improve overall wellbeing, making the university experience productive and enjoyable.
- Disability Support: Disability advisors create personalised plans to help students overcome challenges and achieve their potential.
- International Student Support: Specialist staff assist non-native English speakers in developing their language skills, with an EAP (English for Academic Purposes) tutor available for ongoing support.
With a strong commitment to student welfare, HSU ensures that every student has the tools and support needed to thrive, grow, and make the most of their university experience.
HEALTH SCIENCES UNIVERSITY FACILITIES
HSU takes pride in providing state-of-the-art facilities to support hands-on learning, pioneering research, and an enriching students’ experience. With campuses in Bournemouth and London, facilities allow students have access to the latest technology, specialist equipment, and dynamic learning spaces.
Advanced clinical training environments equip students with the tools needed to excel in their studies and confidently step into their future careers.
AECC School of Chiropractic
As an AECC School of Chiropractic student, you’ll train in our world-class chiropractic clinic, which serves over 30,000 patients annually. As the first European chiropractic training facility, AECC has provided excellent chiropractic education for over 60 years.
HSU continually invest in learning spaces and equipment, including:
• Treatment benches and simulation equipment.
• Advanced anatomy technology and tools.
• A comprehensive Library and Learning Services hub.
• Prosection lab
• On-campus clinic with 34 treatment rooms
• On-campus imaging facilities
HSU's Integrated Rehabilitation Centre also offers opportunities for specialist placements in paediatric and sports chiropractic, enabling students to develop expertise in targeted approaches to patient care.
School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
Practical learning is at the heart of the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences. HSU's Bournemouth and London campuses offers a wealth of specialist facilities designed to develop student’s clinical skills.
HSU's Bournemouth campus offers:
• Rehabilitation Hub and Clinical Skills Suite: Perfect for practising physiotherapy and sports rehabilitation.
• Human Performance Laboratory: Designed for sports performance students and athlete support.
• Podiatry Suite: A dual-purpose space for learning and treating real patients.
• Assisted Daily Living Suite: Designed as a home environment complete with kitchen, living and sleeping area, and a fully functional bathroom.
HSU's Integrated Rehabilitation Centre provides rehabilitation services to the local community and features nine consultation rooms and a multi-zoned physical rehabilitation area, where students work alongside professionals from multiple disciplines.
For students on radiography and imaging courses, our cutting-edge imaging facilities include:
• Open Upright MRI Scanner
• X-ray and CT Scanners
• Ultrasound Clinic
• VERT (Virtual Environment Radiotherapy Training)
• Mock wards
To further support students' learning, simulation spaces and interactive patient manikins allow them to practice clinical skills in a safe, supportive environment. For occupational therapy students, the Assisted Daily Living Suite mimics a real home environment, enabling them to provide care and guidance in realistic scenarios.
HSU's London Campus offers:
- Psychology Laboratory
- Vision Performance Suite
- Virtually Reality Learning environment
UCO School of Osteopathy
Clinical training is a cornerstone of the UCO School of Osteopathy.
At HSU's teaching clinic on Southwark Bridge Road in London, students gain invaluable experience by working with real patients. Supporting approximately 35,000 appointments annually, the clinic provides:
• Specialist services in women’s health, sports injuries, paediatrics, HIV care, and transgender and non-binary health.
• Extensive clinical training, with students completing 1,000 hours, progressing from observation to managing their own patient lists.
Other Facilities
Across both campuses, students will find spaces that support their academic and personal growth:
• Bournemouth Campus:
- A converted chapel library with stunning stained-glass windows, housing extensive resources including databases, e-journals, e-books, and Anatomy TV.
- A student gym with state-of-the-art equipment, designed for those who train professionally or recreationally.
- The Toggler’s Arms student bar and a campus café serving hot and cold meals, ideal for socialising or relaxing.
- A range of lecture theatres, seminar rooms, lounge areas, and quiet spaces for study or downtime.
• London Campus:
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A modern Learning Hub with a library of books, journals, and anatomical models.
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High-tech lecture theatres.
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A virtual reality suite and recording lab to support innovative teaching and learning.
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Technique practice rooms and spaces for independent and group study.
From advanced clinical training to vibrant social spaces, HSU's facilities are designed to give the best possible student experience. Whether in Bournemouth or London, students will have access to everything they need to help achieve their academic and career goals.
SPORTS AND SOCIETIES AT HEALTH SCIENCES UNIVERSITY
Students' Union
The Health Sciences University Students’ Union (HSUSU) is the heart of student life at HSU, providing a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive community. Committed to student wellbeing, connection and engagement, HSUSU promotes a positive environment where every student’s voice is valued and heard.
Clubs and Societies
HSUSU offers a wide range of clubs and societies, providing opportunities to connect, grow, and share common interests. These groups are run by students, for students, and reflect the diverse and dynamic HSU community. Whether students are interested in joining a team, participating in a society, or trying something new, there’s something for everyone at HSU.
Beach or City Life
HSU students benefit from studying in one of two dynamic locations: Bournemouth or London.
• Bournemouth Campus is set in a stunning coastal location, just minutes from the beach and close to the breathtaking Jurassic Coast. It offers the perfect blend of academic focus, outdoor activities and a balanced student lifestyle.
• London Campus places students in the heart of one of the world’s most vibrant cities, providing great opportunities for academic growth, career networking, and cultural exploration in a globally connected environment. Whether studying by the coast or in the capital, HSU students can enjoy a rich and rewarding university experience.
ACCOMMODATION AT HEALTH SCIENCES UNIVERSITY
Finding the right place to live is an important part of the university experience, and the HSU Student Services team is here to help.
Bournemouth offers a variety of accommodation choices to suit different lifestyles and budgets:
- Private Halls of Residence: Centrally located near the town centre, close to bars, restaurants, shops, and award-winning beaches.
- Lulworth House: Located just two miles from campus, offering easy access to university facilities while providing a vibrant, student-friendly environment.
- Private Rentals: A strong network of local landlords offers student flats and houses near campus.
The London rental market offers a range of options:
- Private Rentals or House Shares: Ideal for those who prefer independence or shared living with other HSU students.
INTERNATIONAL FOCUS
A Home Away from Home
At Health Sciences University (HSU), students are welcome from around the world, providing a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
Support for International Students
HSU understands that studying in a new country can be both exciting and challenging. The International Student Support team at HSU help non-native English speakers adjust to academic life. Students have access to an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) tutor, providing ongoing language support and tailored guidance to help them succeed in their studies.
HSU is committed to supporting its students by offering a range of scholarships and bursaries. These awards are designed to assist undergraduate students in funding their studies and do not need to be repaid.
INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS
HSU provides an environment where students engage with the latest advancements in the health sciences. Its commitment to research and specialisation means that students will:
- Be exposed to innovations that shape the future of healthcare.
- Develop the skills needed to address emerging health challenges in society.
- Gain hands-on experience that prepares them to step into the professional world with confidence.
EMPLOYABILITY AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
HSU's mission is to help shape the future of healthcare and sport by training professionals who will make a real difference. In today’s rapidly changing world, the need for skilled, compassionate individuals in health and sport has never been greater.
Through innovative programmes, community clinics and strong industry partnerships, HSU helps alleviate pressure on healthcare systems, support public health and promote active lifestyles. Students gain the expertise and experience needed to launch a rewarding career while contributing to a healthier, more active society. The university reflects a bold ambition to lead the way as the go-to institution for health and sport. It offers an extensive range of disciplines — from chiropractic and osteopathy to rehabilitation and sports science — all designed to contribute to a healthier, more inclusive future.
HSU students gain hands-on experience through placements in on-campus community clinics and hospital settings with NHS partners. With access to advanced facilities such as imaging suites and sports performance labs, they graduate with practical skills highly sought after by employers and are prepared for diverse career opportunities.
STUDY IN HEALTH SCIENCES UNIVERSITY
HSU students are based in one of two vibrant and dynamic locations: Bournemouth or London.
Bournemouth campus offers a stunning coastal setting, just a five-minute walk from the beach and close to the Jurassic Coast. It’s the perfect environment for students to study, stay active, and enjoy a balanced lifestyle.
London is one of the world’s most exciting cities, offering students unique opportunities to expand their academic and professional horizons while immersing themselves in its rich cultural and historical landscape.
WHY STUDY AT THE HEALTH SCIENCES UNIVERSITY
Students at HSU benefit from the following advantages:
- Expert tuition: With nearly 60 years of experience in chiropractic education at AECC UC and over 100 years of osteopathic excellence at UCO, the university offers unparalleled expertise across healthcare and sport.
- Comprehensive programmes: From undergraduate and postgraduate degrees to apprenticeships and short courses, HSU caters to both newcomers and professionals looking to specialise or advance their careers.
- State-of-the-art facilities: Students gain practical experience in cutting-edge environments, including imaging suites, rehabilitation spaces, sports performance labs, treatment rooms, and simulation facilities.
- Supportive and collaborative community: HSU is a welcoming, multidisciplinary environment where aspiring healthcare and sporting professionals connect, collaborate, and grow together.
For students with a passion for healthcare or sport, HSU offers the expertise, resources, and community to help them achieve their goals and thrive in an evolving, dynamic field.
