Master of Integrative Medicine

Course Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a course. These outcomes are aligned with the graduate attributes (GA):

GA1: Intellectual rigour

• Apply an evidence-based clinical-decision making framework using appropriate evidence and critical thinking within contemporary integrative medicine practice.
• Apply knowledge of research principles and methods to investigating integrative medicine practice.

GA2: Creativity

• Critically and creatively evaluate and respond to actual and potential health problems impacting individuals, families and communities.

GA3: Ethical practice

• Understand and function within applicable professional competencies, scopes of practice, codes of conduct, codes of ethics, laws and policies.

GA4: Knowledge of a discipline

• Demonstrate advanced knowledge and critical application of pertinent integrative medicine theories and frameworks in clinical and professional contexts.
• Apply an integrated body of knowledge of, and be responsive to, local and global determinants of health across a range of populations in a safe and competent manner.

GA5: Lifelong learning

• Critically reflect on current skills, knowledge, attitudes and practices to plan and implement ongoing personal and professional learning.
• Apply autonomy, accountability, adaptability, professional advocacy, responsibility and leadership in integrative medicine across diverse teams and settings.

GA6: Communication and social skills

• Demonstrate advanced verbal and written communication skills that drive appropriate patient and population outcomes in diverse settings.

GA7: Cultural competence

• Demonstrate an ability to advocate the socio-cultural preferences, needs and values of individuals and groups across diverse settings and within interdisciplinary teams.

Integrative medicine (IM) is a model of healthcare where practitioners work together in interdisciplinary teams to understand and address the matrix of factors that contribute to illness in each individual. Patients are central to IM, and remain active participants in co-designing and managing their care. IM specialises in preventive medicine and treating complex and chronic conditions.

The Master of Integrative Medicine assists practitioners to more confidently practice in integrative health care teams and settings, and to prescribe interventions that facilitate behaviour change in order to support the prevention and management of chronic disease, and to improve patient outcomes.

The Master of Integrative Medicine is taught by leaders in the field and uses an evidence-based approach to examine the principles and practices of IM, including models of care, clinical reasoning, self-management, behaviour change, and strategies and interventions for preventing and managing disease. An observational placement is undertaken at the end of the degree to enable students to consolidate their understanding of IM in a real-life setting.

This course has travel expectations - please read the information below on placements carefully.

Award requirements

To be eligible to receive the Master of Integrative Medicine students must complete the equivalent of 8 units (96 credit points), comprising:

• 7 core units (84 credit points) and
• 1 option unit (12 credit points).

Choose your subjects

Majors

Students will study seven core units and one elective unit across the following areas: the principles and practice of integrative health care; nutritional medicine; botanical medicine; environmental medicine; integrative gastroenterology; integrative mental health; integrative women's health; and metabolic health and management.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $19,760

The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying part-time, which is typically 4 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

Revolutionary learning for strong employment outcomes

At Southern Cross University, online study is designed to fit around your life without compromising on quality. Through the Southern Cross Model, you learn in focused six-week terms, usually studying one or two units at a time.

This immersive approach helps you stay motivated, build momentum and balance study with work, family and other commitments.

You'll be supported by innovative teaching, practical learning experiences and a university community committed to your success - whether you're interested in business, education, healthcare, law, engineering, IT, science or other career-focused study areas.

Your flexible online study comes with the support, connections and confidence to help you achieve your goals and take the next step in your career.

Learn more about Southern Cross University

Explore Southern Cross University courses

QS World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

31

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

32

An Australian equivalent Bachelor degree in a clinical health discipline AND two years of documented, relevant clinical experience.

Credit for Prior Learning, also referred to as ‘Advanced Standing’ or Recognition for Prior Learning (RPL), is the process of looking at your prior study and/or experience to assess if you can be awarded academic credit or gain entry to a course on the basis of your existing knowledge and skills.

Students are required to complete a 24-hour observation placement at the end of their degree. This Work Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunity will be undertaken within an integrative health care setting and will enable students to consolidate their understanding of Integrative Medicine in a real-life context.

WIL is a vital part of your professional experience and comes with specific expectations and responsibilities. Please read the following carefully before applying for the course:

• Placement Locations: While we consider your current residential address when allocating placements, local placements are not guaranteed. It is essential to keep your address up to date in MyEnrolment, as inaccurate information may result in a placement that requires extended travel.
• Travel and Costs: You should be prepared to travel to your allocated placement, which may be outside your immediate local area. You will require access to reliable transport to complete shifts that may occur during mornings, afternoons, nights, and weekends. You are responsible for organising and covering any associated costs, including travel, accommodation, and related expenses.
• Fit-to-Practice Requirements: Before attending any placement, you must meet mandatory compliance requirements, which may include, but are not limited to, immunisations (as per the Australian National Immunisation Program), mask-fit testing, First Aid and CPR certification and National Police Certificate checks. 

 More detailed information on WIL is available on the Faculty WIL page.