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A practitioner performs reflexology on a client's foot in a serene therapy room, emphasizing the course's focus on applied reflexology techniques.

OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Applied Reflexology for Integrated Medicine

This diploma develops advanced applied reflexology knowledge, clinical practice, reflected anatomy, integrated medicine, stress management, evidence-based practice, and business skills for professi...

Awarding Body: OTHM|Course Level: Level 5
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Course features

This regulated OTHM qualification is delivered over one year and combines applied reflexology, clinical practice, integrated medicine, evidence-based study, and business preparation within a mandatory 120-credit structure.

  • Ofqual regulated OTHM qualification with Ofqual reference number 610/2055/2.

  • Eight mandatory units totalling 120 credits.

  • 1200 Total Qualification Time and 480 Guided Learning Hours.

  • One-year qualification with pass/fail grading.

  • Coursework-based assessment with internal assessment and external verification.

  • Includes a Level 6 unit in Evidence Based Practice for Reflexology.

About course

The OTHM Level 5 Diploma in Applied Reflexology for Integrated Medicine is designed to develop learners’ knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of reflexology and then expand this through advancing conceptual and practical knowledge. It is studied across eight units over one academic year and is assessed at a level equivalent to Foundation Degrees, Higher National Diplomas, and year 2 of a three-year UK bachelor’s degree.

  • Builds advanced conceptual and practical knowledge in applied reflexology.

  • Develops reflexology within a clinical and integrated medicine context.

  • Includes anatomy, physiology, psychology, reflected anatomy, and pathology.

  • Supports integration of complementary medicine with conventional care.

  • Embeds evidence-based practice and reflective decision-making.

  • Prepares learners for employment settings and self-employed reflexology practice.

What you will learn

Learners study official outcomes across the mandatory units that develop safe practice, anatomical knowledge, clinical reflexology skills, integrated care awareness, stress treatment protocols, and evidence-based reflexology understanding.

  • Understand safety, health and welfare principles and practice for reflexology.

  • Understand the structure and function of body systems, feet, and hands.

  • Be able to reflect the macro body onto the feet for reflexology and perform foundation clinical reflexology practice.

  • Be able to apply reflexology through clinical assessment, analysis, evaluation, and critical review.

  • Understand stress and its impact and provide applied reflexology for stress-related conditions.

  • Understand historical perspectives, reflexology theories, and evidence-based practice in reflexology.

Course content

Who should attend

This course is suitable for adult learners and practitioners who want to deepen reflexology knowledge within a clinical context, including those seeking integrated medicine applications and progression in complementary therapy practice.

  • Learners aged 18 and above.

  • Learners holding a relevant Level 4 Diploma.

  • Learners with GCE Advanced level in 2 subjects or an equivalent qualification.

  • Mature learners over 21 with relevant management experience, subject to centre approval.

  • Reflexology practitioners seeking deeper clinical reflexology knowledge.

  • Medical and health professionals interested in integrating reflexology with conventional medicine.

Course requirements

OTHM states that this qualification is designed for learners typically aged 18 and above, and centres should review each learner’s prior qualifications and experience to confirm suitability for study at level 5.

  • Entry profile should include a relevant Level 4 Diploma, GCE Advanced level in 2 subjects or equivalent, or mature learner experience.

  • Learners from non-majority English-speaking countries must provide evidence of English language competency.

Assessments

The qualification uses coursework-based assessment and includes observed assessments, case studies, internal centre assessment, and external verification by OTHM. Learners must also complete minimum practical case study and observed practice hours.

  • Coursework assessment across all units.

  • Observed assessments and case studies.

  • Minimum 140 hours of case study treatments.

  • Minimum 24 hours of observed practice assessment, with internal assessment and external OTHM verification.

Progression

Successful completion enhances reflexology knowledge in a clinical context and may support academic progression, broader healthcare opportunities, and private practice development.

  • Progression to bachelor’s degrees in Complementary Therapies and related subjects.

  • Opportunities in corporate businesses.

  • Opportunities in GP surgeries, hospices, hospitals, and NHS-related environments.

  • Scope for new business development in private practice.

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