Are you intrigued by the world of holistic healing? Do you find yourself drawn to the wisdom of Shiatsu, and Oriental Medicine? If so, the Australian Shiatsu College is the ideal place for you to answer the call to a transformative journey in holistic healthcare. We are proud to offer our nationally recognised Diploma of Shiatsu & Oriental Therapies [HLT52215], a program specifically designed to foster the next generation of practitioners in this unique field.
As a vocational education provider with over 35 years of expertise, we’ve helped hundreds of students just like you embark on their personal and professional journeys towards becoming successful holistic health professionals. We equip our students with the knowledge and tools needed to unlock their potential and transform their communities through the healing powers of Shiatsu and Oriental therapies.
A Deep Dive Into Holistic Healing
In an increasingly hectic world, holistic health practices have become the cornerstone of wellness. The need for balance and well-being is now more prominent than ever, and Shiatsu offers a natural, non-invasive way to help individuals achieve this equilibrium.
Our curriculum is meticulously crafted, drawing upon our extensive experience and knowledge in the field. You’ll explore the depths of traditional Shiatsu techniques and theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine. This journey into ancient healing arts encompasses both theory and practice, taking you beyond superficial understanding to true mastery.
We place a strong emphasis on practical skills like pinpointing energy points, palpation techniques, and Makko Ho exercises. In addition, you’ll delve into the philosophical theories of Yin/Yang and the Five-Element theory, which form the bedrock of Shiatsu and Traditional Chinese Medicine. These concepts will provide you with a unique perspective on the human body, health, and illness, equipping you to provide effective and holistic therapeutic interventions.
Experiential Learning: Bridging Theory and Practice
The Australian Shiatsu College places great importance on experiential learning. Our belief is that theoretical knowledge is solidified when put into practice, and we encourage our students to apply what they’ve learned in real-life situations. That’s why our Diploma of Shiatsu & Oriental Therapies [HLT52215] program goes beyond the minimum 200 hours of clinical work and 60 client treatments required in the training package.
We provide you with opportunities to apply what you’ve learned through our supervised student clinic and classroom treatments. In addition, you’ll engage in home practice sessions where you can treat friends, family, and yourself, further refining your skills. This invaluable exposure helps you gain confidence, proficiency, and a deep understanding of the Shiatsu healing arts, preparing you to make a tangible difference in your personal health and that of your clients.
Immersed in Nature: A Serene Learning Environment
Our college, tucked within the peaceful surroundings of the CERES environmental park, is a nurturing space where students can learn and grow. This serene setting promotes a sense of tranquillity and focus, fostering an ideal environment for students to immerse themselves in their Shiatsu training journey. The natural beauty of our campus serves as a constant reminder of the interconnectedness of all things, a concept fundamental to the study and practice of Shiatsu and Oriental therapies.
We’ve cultivated a vibrant community of like-minded individuals, creating a supportive environment that enhances the learning experience. At the Australian Shiatsu College, personal growth, academic rigour, and spiritual development converge, forging a holistic approach to learning that is truly unique.
Study on Your Terms: Flexible Learning Options
Recognising that each student is unique, we offer flexible learning options that cater to different lifestyles and commitments. Full-time students can complete their Diploma of Shiatsu and Oriental Therapies [HLT52215] within two years, while part-time students typically finish within four years. These timeframes may vary depending on your prior study and experience (Recognition of Prior Learning pathways are available), with a minimum of two years required to ensure adequate time for skill development and knowledge integration.
We provide an online learning platform where knowledge-based classes are available on demand, allowing you to fit your studies around your schedule. Informational content is delivered through a mixture of prescribed readings and recorded video lectures mixed with self-directed learning activities. All online learning is supported with live tutorials, either in-person or online, to answer questions and consolidate learning with practical case study applications.
Practical skills, such as Zen Shiatsu and other massage techniques, are learned through in-person tuition and supervised student clinics. These experiences provide you with the opportunity to apply your skills in a supportive and professional environment, fostering your confidence and competence. A logbook records your clinical practice throughout the duration of your study, both in supervised clinics and home practice.
Practical classes are held on Thursday afternoons/evenings and Supervised student clinics are held on Friday afternoons/evenings.
With a typical study load of 15-20 hours of study per week for full-time students, this platform offers flexibility without compromising on the quality of education. This time frame may vary for individual students depending on their learning style and previous study/experience. Within these hours are included scheduled classes, self-directed learning and review and home practice of practical skills.
Intensive Diploma Model for National / Rural Students
In 2024, we are excited to introduce a study option for remote, interstate students who wish to engage on the pathway towards becoming a Shiatsu practitioner. Students in this cohort will engage in learning knowledge-based content online alongside our locally-based student cohort. Their practical skills will be learnt through 4 week-long intensives per year level (expected duration 2 years). During these intensives, both the practical application of techniques will be utilised and clinical experience will be integrated. Students pursuing this pathway will engage local mentors to support their skills development alongside their practice of hands-on skills to be assessed during intensive weeks.
The current proposed 2024 schedule (subject to change) for week-long intensives (conducted in Melbourne) for remote students is:
- Friday 2nd February – Tuesday 6th February
- Friday 17th May – Tuesday 21st May
- Friday 26th July – Tuesday 30th July
- Tuesday 8th October – Sunday 13th October
Limited space options available
To ensure optimal learning for our students, we have in place a student cap for our diploma cohorts in 2024
- Our Melbourne stream with weekly practical classes has a cap of 10 Diploma students
- Our remote stream, with 4 x week-long practical intensives each year has a cap of 12 Diploma students
Register your interest and enrol soon to secure your spot
A Promising Career Path in Shiatsu
Graduating with a Diploma in Shiatsu & Oriental Therapies [HLT52215] from the Australian Shiatsu College opens doors to a multitude of exciting career opportunities. Whether you see your future self as a Shiatsu massage therapist working as an independent practitioner, a member of a multi-disciplinary natural therapies clinic, or as a community wellness advocate, your skills and expertise will be invaluable. From treating chronic pain, and mental health issues, to managing various chronic disease presentations including digestive, musculoskeletal, and gynaecological conditions, your impact as a Shiatsu practitioner will be far-reaching.
We’re ready to welcome you into our community, guiding you through an enriching and empowering journey that blends the ancient wisdom of the East with modern Western practices. Embrace the opportunity to become a skilled and compassionate practitioner with the Australian Shiatsu College.
The transformative journey to becoming a certified Shiatsu practitioner begins here, at the Australian Shiatsu College. If you’re ready to answer the call to holistic healing and unlock your potential, we encourage you to apply today. Our next Diploma intake starts in February 2024, and limited spaces are available. Start making a positive difference in your health and that of your community with the Australian Shiatsu College!
FAQ
HECS/FEE-HELP does not cover our Diploma of Shiatsu and Oriental Therapies. Our students self-fund their investment in Shiatsu education, with some electing a part-time study option to facilitate more space for work.
Centrelink does not include the Diploma of Shiatsu and Oriental Therapies as an eligible course for AUSTUDY. Our students may choose a part-time study option to facilitate more space for work, with our timetabling options structured to minimise impact on a regular working schedule
Our Diploma students’ yearly tuition fees are based on the number of units of competency they are enrolled in for a specific year. Fees are paid in ten equal monthly instalments by direct debit.
We enrol a maximum of 12 Diploma students in a cohort to ensure that there is adequate space and supervision for student clinics. The practical classes may have a total of 24 students including those participating in Short Course studies with us (eg Zen Shiatsu).
Our online classes combine students from our local, national and short course cohorts. These larger groups contribute to more lively and engaging discussions and activities in our tutorials as we can enjoy the input and experience of a wide range of participants.
We have full-time (2 years) and part-time (4 years) options for Diploma studies. We generally recommend students studying the intensive program engage in full-time study during their first year to allow for the most appropriate development of knowledge and skills. Should students require a change of pace during their enrolment, then this can also be facilitated.
There are two ways to get credit for what you already know:
1. Credit transfer:
- Applies to formal training you’ve completed, like courses or certificates from other registered training organizations (RTOs).
- If your previous training matches part of the diploma program (ie it involves the same unit of competency), you can get credit for it without redoing it.
- This can shorten your study time.
- NB You may be invited to participate in some componets which contextualise this knowledge into the Shiatsu environment
2. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
- Applies to skills and knowledge you’ve gained from work, life experiences, or informal training.
- You’ll need to provide evidence like portfolios or references to show your competence.
- If assessed as competent, you can get partial credit for the relevant parts of your program.
- NB An RPL applicant will typically complete a range of assessment tasks to demonstrate currency of their knowledge.
Benefits of both:
- Save time and money by not having to redo what you already know.
- Get recognized for your existing skills and knowledge.
- Feel more confident in your studies.
Talk to your us to see if credit transfer or RPL is an option for you!
Professional recognition of our nationally recognised training of HLT52215 Diploma of Shiatsu and Oriental Therapies
