FAQ’s – Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have questions about WOMA postgraduate studies, the program, or course organization?
We have gathered answers to the most frequently asked topics to help you easily find the information you need.
If you don’t find an answer here, please contact us – we will gladly assist you.
Ratio of theoretical to practical classes
Each year of studies includes 5 practical sessions and 4 theoretical sessions. From the very first year, we emphasize practical application of the acquired knowledge, meaning that students learn not only osteopathy theory but also specific manual techniques and patient work right from the start.
Required professional background – physiotherapist or a medical doctor
To start postgraduate osteopathy studies at WOMA, you need a relevant professional background – you must be a physiotherapist (or at least a 4th or 5th year student of physiotherapy) or a medical doctor.
This is essential because our program builds on a solid foundation of anatomy, physiology, and clinical experience. Osteopathy combines medical knowledge with manual skills, which is why entering the program with prior professional education is crucial. In WOMA, we are committed to delivering the highest quality education and evidence-based knowledge. We welcome passionate individuals who are curious about new directions in medicine, but professional training and a deep understanding of human physiology must always come first.
What does a postgraduate programme in osteopathy offer, and how does it differ from a course or a training programme?
You are enrolling to a postgraduate programme — not a short course or a series of training courses. This distinction is important and has a direct impact on your professional development.
You enter into an agreement directly with the Warsaw Medical Academy of Applied Sciences for a 4-year postgraduate programme. We offer a comprehensive osteopathic education programme delivered over 4 full academic years, in accordance with the principles applicable to higher education and the guidelines of the Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education.
The entire Warsaw Osteopathic Medicine Academy programme is organised and delivered by the higher education institution – Warsaw Medical Academy of Applied Sciences, and culminates in the awarding of both a D.O. (Diploma in Osteopathy)
and a Postgraduate Certificate, as well as 240 ECTS credits.
- This means that:
your qualifications are clearly defined and comparable within the European educational context; - you have a stronger basis for seeking recognition of your qualification abroad and documenting the full 4-year programme completed;
- your education demonstrates preparation in accordance with European educational standards.
Warsaw Osteopathic Medicine Academy provides comprehensive academic education in osteopathy, supporting your professional development and strengthening your position in the labour market both, in Poland and internationally.
Recognition of qualifications and diplomas abroad
Each country may recognize foreign qualifications differently, depending on its local regulations and educational system. However, WOMA provides its graduates with distinct advantages that significantly increase the chances of qualification recognition and competitiveness in the international job market. Thanks to its membership in OsEAN (Osteopathic European Academic Network), WOMA’s curriculum is based on European standards of osteopathic education. This ensures that the qualifications obtained at WOMA are more widely recognized and comparable to programs in other countries, facilitating both professional mobility and the diploma recognition process. Employers and institutions abroad view OsEAN-affiliated schools as credible, and their graduates as well-prepared to work in accordance with European standards. In addition, WOMA’s full study program culminates in the award of 240 ECTS credits– the maximum allowable number of credits for postgraduate studies. ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) is a universal academic credit system used across Europe, which enhances the transparency and comparability of educational achievements. As a result, WOMA graduates can more easily demonstrate the scope and level of their education – an important asset in diploma recognition processes and in communication with employers or educational institutions abroad.
In summary – both OsEAN membership and the use of the ECTS system not only simplify the process of qualification recognition outside of Poland, but also genuinely enhance your career prospects across Europe and beyond.
Transparent payment Policy – one fee, no hidden costs
We do not charge any additional or hidden fees beyond the tuition fee. The tuition covers all services related to the program, including participation in classes, access to learning materials, exam sessions (both the first attempt and retakes), and full administrative support. Payment is made to a single institution, which is solely responsible for the delivery of the educational program. Tuition is paid exclusively in Polish zloty (PLN), which eliminates currency exchange risk and ensures cost predictability throughout the entire duration of the program.
Options for study funding
Our current students most often use funding from the Development Services Database (Baza Usług Rozwojowych). Many also receive funding from PFRON.
If you find other funding options for your studies, we will gladly assist with the formalities so you can receive them.
Here you can find information about funding for our studies: https://woma.edu.pl/dofinansowanie/
Gynecology classes
Gynecology classes take place in the 4th year and are an important part of the WOMA curriculum. This module covers topics in gynecology and visceral therapy, with an emphasis on full integration with the holistic osteopathic approach. The classes have been taught for years by Ewelina Tyszko-Bury, an experienced osteopath and lecturer specializing in working with women. Thanks to her practical experience and clinical knowledge, students receive not only a solid theoretical foundation but also learn sensitive and professional approaches to patients of various ages and life stages. The program covers topics such as working with the pelvic floor, reproductive organs, menstrual cycle, and osteopathic support during and after childbirth. These classes are highly rated by students and represent an important stage in shaping a conscious, holistic approach to osteopathic therapy.
The WOMA teaching faculty
The WOMA teaching faculty (https://woma.edu.pl/kadra/) consists of lecturers who are actively involved in delivering classes in our program. These are the same professionals that students work with directly during courses and who are present during practical examinations. We do not use names for promotional purposes – every instructor listed is genuinely responsible for teaching and program delivery. Our faculty members hold the DO (Diploma in Osteopathy) title and have extensive clinical and teaching experience, ensuring a high standard of education. In line with our commitment to transparency and quality, we guarantee that each lecturer is fully engaged in the teaching process.
Absence from theoretical classes
All theoretical classes are recorded, giving students flexibility in how they participate. You can attend: in person, live online, or watch the recordings later.
Recordings of all classes are archived and available to students until the end of their studies. They are an invaluable resource, especially when preparing for theoretical exams, reviewing material, or reinforcing key concepts.
Dean’s leave
At WOMA, you have the option to take a one-year unpaid dean’s leave.
Cadaveric anatomy in the program
Cadaveric anatomy is an integral part of the WOMA curriculum. These classes are held at one of the best-equipped centers in Europe for this type of teaching – the University of Antwerp. Participating in these classes is a unique opportunity to gain knowledge and experience beyond the standard anatomy teaching methods available in Poland, especially for physiotherapists. Classes in Antwerp allow direct work with anatomical specimens, enabling deep understanding of the human body’s structure at a level unavailable in most Polish educational institutions. This gives WOMA students the chance to learn anatomy in a practical and spatial way, which is invaluable for osteopath training. This method develops palpation skills and facilitates applying the knowledge in clinical practice later on.
WOMA knowledge base
Lecture recordings and educational materials from all years and cohorts are available to students throughout their studies. This allows them to regularly review and reinforce their knowledge at their convenience. It’s an invaluable aid in understanding the material, preparing for exams, and applying skills in practice. Access to this knowledge base replaces the need to attend many additional online courses by providing comprehensive and professional educational materials all in one place. It saves time and money, while offering continuous academic support at every stage of your education.
Studying while living abroad
One of the key advantages of the WOMA program is the ability to study while living abroad. Each year includes 10 seminar weekends – with the schedule announced well in advance to allow students to plan travel accordingly. Theoretical modules can be attended either in person or live online – the choice is yours. All lectures are also recorded, allowing flexible access afterward. Theoretical exams are held online twice a year. All classes take place in central Warsaw, conveniently located with easy access from the airport. Sunday classes end at 13:50, making it possible to travel back home the same day. Moreover, students who find it easier to travel to Belgium may complete selected practical seminars at our partner school, Osteon Education in Antwerp. This flexible format makes it entirely feasible for students living abroad or frequently traveling to fully participate in our program – without compromising on quality or connection to the WOMA community.
Teaching language
Classes at WOMA are conducted by international lecturers in English. If you are not confident in professional English – don’t worry! All lectures and practical classes are always held with the presence of a consecutive translator who translates into Polish.
Additionally, practical exams at every year are also conducted with a translator present, so all students can participate freely and with full understanding during lessons and assessments.
The only moment when presenting content in English is required is during the final thesis presentation in the 4th year. This is necessary due to our education being conducted according to OSEAN standards and the presence of an international examination board. Thus, the DO diploma is an international diploma.
OsEAN Student Exchange – How does It work?
Through the OsEAN (Osteopathic European Academic Network) student exchange program, WOMA students can take part in a 7-day exchange at any European osteopathy school that belongs to the OsEAN network. The exchange is tuition-free — students are only responsible for their travel and accommodation costs. This is a unique opportunity to explore different osteopathic approaches, gain valuable clinical experience, and build international connections. While the completed classes are not part of the formal WOMA curriculum and do not carry ECTS credits, they offer invaluable educational and professional experience. The program follows the spirit of the Bologna Process and supports the goals of the European Higher Education Area.
Do I need to bring anything to the first seminar weekend?
For the first seminar weekend, please bring:
- the original diploma qualifying you for postgraduate studies, or – in the case of physiotherapy and medical students – a certificate confirming completion of the 3rd year of studies. Documents will be verified against the original,
- comfortable sportswear — the first seminar includes practical sessions,
Water and light refreshments will be available throughout the day.