Why Study at the CAO?
Why Study at the CAO?
For over 22 years, the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy (CAO) has been shaping the next generation of osteopathic manual practitioners through rigorous academics, unmatched clinical training, and a supportive community. Choosing CAO means choosing excellence, experience, and a clear path toward a rewarding career in healthcare.
A Program Built for Success
Our 4200-hour curriculum is carefully curated by PhD-level experts in curriculum design, ensuring a structured and comprehensive education. With 1500 hours of supervised, in-person hands-on training, students gain the skills and confidence to assess, diagnose, and treat effectively from day one of practice. Our curriculum aims to meet or exceed the highest international standards.
Exclusive Approach to Treatment
CAO is the only school in Canada that teaches the Collective Mechanics™ approach—a principles-based model of osteopathic treatment that integrates movement, physics, and natural law for efficient and effective patient care. Our grads stand out from other OMP’s and other manual therapies for their precise and effective treatments.
Learn from Leaders in the Field
Our extensive faculty includes working osteopaths, PhD scholars, and MDs, bringing both clinical expertise and academic excellence into the classroom. Every lesson is backed by real-world application.
Training That Gives Back
The CAO has two charity clinics that provide FREE treatments to the communities of Hamilton and Clagary. Our senior students provide free treatments to the public while gaining invaluable clinical experience. This model has delivered hundreds of thousands of treatments to local communities—an incredible benefit for patients and a powerful apprenticeship for students. It prepares students to step seamlessly into professional practice with success!
Professional Recognition and Insurance Billing
The CAO program allows for direct entry into professional practice for all graduates. Through membership in OSTCAN, our alumni are eligible for full insurance billing across Canada, ensuring patients have access to care and graduates have a thriving practice.
Flexible Study Options
Whether you’re a recent university/college graduate, a healthcare professional, or an adult learner starting a new path, CAO has options for you:
- 3-year or 4-year programs to fit your pace.
- Direct entry for applicants from kinesiology, massage therapy, health sciences, and healthcare.
- Anatomy PREP pathway designed for non-health applicants and adult learners.
- The ability to study in Hamilton or Calgary, with opportunities to exchange between campuses.
Additional Support
We understand the financial commitment of higher education. That’s why we offer financial aid and payment plan options to make your osteopathy education more accessible.
Get the Details
4-Year and 3-Year Options Available
May 2026 | September 2026
Currently Enrolling for
Calgary | Hamilton
*3-Year option is only available at our Hamilton Campus
The leading provider of Osteopathic education in Canada for over 22 years!
A principles-based education which will teach you the theory and principles, plus the skills and techniques to succeed as an Osteopathic Manual Practitioner
Modified Full-time program - Flexible Schedule minimizes away time from work and allows distance students to commute easily from out-of-town, no need to relocate!
Transparent, responsible, and ethical training that is comprehensive, so you get all the skills necessary to build a thriving professional practice
Industry-experienced world-class Osteopathic faculty who are passionate about inspiring the next generation of Osteopathic Manual Practitioners
Our Supervised clinical training experience is unmatched in Canada.
Recognized by our Partners & affiliates for meeting or exceeding standards of Osteopathy education in Canada and worldwide